‘Guruvayoorambala Nadayil’, directed by Vipin Das, is a comedy-drama that stands shoulder to shoulder with Mohanlal’s ‘Aaraattu’ in its rich tapestry of film references. Starring Prithviraj Sukumaran and Basil Joseph, the movie is a delightful romp set against the vibrant chaos of a wedding.
Released on May 16, 2024, it has already made a splash at the box office, raking in nearly Rs 3.8 Cr on its opening day. The film’s charm is amplified by its clever nods to classic movies, which not only serve as easter eggs for cinephiles but also deepen the understanding of the characters’ relationships.
‘Drishyam’ Echoes in ‘Guruvayoorambala Nadayil’
In a scene that had audiences roaring with laughter, Prithviraj Sukumaran’s character Anandan channels the essence of Mohanlal’s iconic Georgekutty from ‘Drishyam’. As Anandan attempts to reconcile with his in-laws, he delivers a line reminiscent of Georgekutty’s, complete with a signature shoulder tilt, evoking a sense of déjà vu and adding a layer of humor to the moment.
‘Grihapravesham’ Vibes in the New Comedy
The casting of Jagadish and Rekha as the parents in ‘Guruvayoorambala Nadayil’ immediately piqued audience interest, harking back to their roles in the 1992 film ‘Grihapravesham’. The new film cleverly references the older movie’s plot of a wedding mix-up at Guruvayoor temple, drawing parallels to the tumultuous familial relationships depicted in both films.
Melodic Memories from ‘Kakkothikkavile Appooppan Thaadikal’
A poignant moment unfolds when Anandan and Vinu, after hours of phone conversations, finally meet. The melody of ‘Kannam Thumbi Poraamo’ fills the air, symbolizing their bond. While ‘Guruvayoorambala Nadayil’ doesn’t delve into the backstory of their relationship, the song, reminiscent of the sibling connection in ‘Kakkothikkavile Appooppan Thaadikal’, offers a touching insight.
Modern Malayalam Hits: ‘Premalu’ and ‘Kaathal’
In a witty exchange, ‘Guruvayoorambala Nadayil’ tips its hat to two contemporary Malayalam blockbusters, ‘Premalu’ and ‘Kaathal’. A character’s dialogue playfully incorporates the titles of these recent hits, reflecting the current cultural zeitgeist and the evolving lexicon of the Malayalam youth.
In essence, ‘Guruvayoorambala Nadayil’ is a cinematic celebration, weaving together humor, drama, and a treasure trove of film references that enrich the narrative and engage the audience on multiple levels. The film’s clever use of inter-textuality not only entertains but also pays homage to the enduring legacy of Malayalam cinema.