Ponman Movie Review (2025): Basil Joseph Shines in a Golden Tale | CharotarDaily.com

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Ponman Movie Review (2025): Basil Joseph Shines in a Golden Tale

A gripping Malayalam drama that blends humor, tension, and social commentary

Introduction: Why "Ponman" Stands Out in 2025

In the ever-evolving world of Malayalam cinema, Ponman emerges as a golden gem in 2025. Directed by debutant Jothish Shankar and starring the versatile Basil Joseph, this film is a refreshing take on the dowry system, wrapped in a dark comedy-thriller package. Released on January 30, 2025, "Ponman" has already captured hearts globally with its unique storytelling and stellar performances. As a film critic for Charotar Daily, I’m here to dive deep into why this movie deserves your attention.

Plot Summary: A Tale Worth Its Weight in Gold

Set against the coastal backdrop of Kollam, Kerala, Ponman movie follows PP Ajesh (Basil Joseph), a gold broker entangled in the risky business of lending jewelry for weddings. When he lends 25 sovereigns of gold to Bruno (Anand Manmadhan) for his sister Steffi Graf’s (Lijomol Jose) wedding, things take a dramatic turn. Steffi’s groom, the notorious Mariano (Sajin Gopu), schemes to keep the gold, putting Ajesh’s life and livelihood at stake. What unfolds is a tense, humorous, and emotionally charged chase that exposes the dark underbelly of the gold dowry system.

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Cast and Crew: The Heart of "Ponman"

The brilliance of Ponman 2025 lies in its impeccable cast and crew. Basil Joseph delivers a career-defining performance as Ajesh, shedding his comedic persona for a gritty, determined character. Sajin Gopu as Mariano is equally compelling, balancing menace with subtlety. Lijomol Jose shines as Steffi, bringing depth to a woman caught in societal expectations.

• Director: Jothish Shankar (Wikipedia)
• Screenplay: G.R. Indugopan, Justin Mathew (IMDb)
• Cinematography: Sanu John Varghese
• Music: Justin Varghese
• Cast: Basil Joseph, Sajin Gopu, Lijomol Jose, Anand Manmadhan, Deepak Parambol (Filmibeat)

The technical finesse of Sanu John Varghese’s cinematography and Justin Varghese’s haunting score elevates this Malayalam cinema masterpiece.

Film Critic’s Take: Strengths and Flaws

Ponman is a triumph of storytelling. Jothish Shankar’s direction weaves humor and tension seamlessly, making every frame pulse with life. The screenplay, adapted from G.R. Indugopan’s novel Naalanchu Cheruppakar, is sharp and layered, offering a fresh perspective on a societal malaise. Basil Joseph’s relentless pursuit of his gold is both inspiring and unsettling—a testament to his acting prowess.

However, the film isn’t without flaws. The pacing dips in the second half, and some characters, like Bruno, feel underdeveloped. The climax, while clever, lacks the punch to leave a lasting impact. Still, these are minor blemishes on an otherwise dazzling canvas.

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Rating: A Golden 4/5

★★★★☆

Ponman movie review verdict: This film is a must-watch for fans of Malayalam cinema and anyone who appreciates a well-crafted story. It’s not just a movie—it’s an experience that lingers long after the credits roll.

Why You Should Watch "Ponman" on OTT

Available on JioHotstar since March 14, 2025, Ponman is perfect for a weekend binge. Its 127-minute runtime flies by, thanks to its engaging narrative and stellar performances. Whether you’re a Basil Joseph fan or a cinephile seeking quality content, this Malayalam movie 2025 won’t disappoint.

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Jackpot!: A High-Stakes Comedy That Misses the Mark

Jackpot!: A High-Stakes Comedy That Misses the Mark

Jackpot! is an action-comedy starring John Cena and Awkwafina that promises a wild ride of laughs and thrills. However, despite the star power and high-octane premise, the film falls short of delivering a truly entertaining experience.

A Premise with Potential

The plot revolves around Katie (Awkwafina), a struggling artist who accidentally wins a massive lottery jackpot. But her newfound wealth becomes a target for a group of ruthless criminals, leading to a chaotic chase through the city. The premise is certainly intriguing, and there's potential for a fun, fast-paced comedy.

Lackluster Comedy and Over-the-Top Action

Unfortunately, "Jackpot!" fails to capitalize on its potential. The comedy is often forced and relies heavily on physical humor, which can be hit or miss. John Cena's comedic timing is questionable, and his character lacks depth. Awkwafina, on the other hand, brings her signature energy but is unable to salvage the film's comedic shortcomings.

The action sequences, while visually impressive, are excessive and lack the necessary tension. The film's attempts at balancing comedy and action are uneven, resulting in a jarring viewing experience.

A Missed Opportunity

"Jackpot!" had the potential to be a fun, escapist movie, but it ultimately feels like a missed opportunity. The characters are underdeveloped, the plot is predictable, and the humor falls flat. While there are a few moments of amusement, they are overshadowed by the film's overall mediocrity.

Rating: ★★☆☆☆

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Bad Monkey: Vince Vaughn Returns in a Gripping New Series

Bad Monkey: Vince Vaughn Returns in a Gripping New Series

A Former Detective's Unexpected Adventure

Get ready to dive into the vibrant world of the Florida Keys with Bad Monkey, an upcoming Apple TV+ series starring the charismatic Vince Vaughn. Based on Carl Hiaasen's bestselling novel, the series promises a blend of crime drama, comedy, and mystery that will keep you hooked.

What to Expect

Vince Vaughn plays Andrew Yancy, a former Miami police detective demoted to a mundane job as a restaurant inspector in the Florida Keys. His life takes an unexpected turn when a severed human arm washes ashore, reigniting his investigative instincts. As Yancy delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of secrets, corruption, and dangerous individuals.

With a star-studded cast including Michelle Monaghan, Jodie Turner-Smith, Meredith Hagner, Rob Delaney, and more, Bad Monkey boasts a talented ensemble that brings the story to life. Expect witty banter, thrilling plot twists, and a touch of dark humor as Yancy navigates the complexities of his new life while trying to solve a gripping mystery.

A Must-Watch for Fans of Crime Dramas

If you're a fan of crime dramas with a comedic edge, Bad Monkey is a series you won't want to miss. The show promises to be a thrilling ride filled with unexpected twists and turns.

Mark Your Calendars

Bad Monkey is set to premiere on Apple TV+ on August 14, 2024. Get ready to binge-watch this captivating new series.

Are you excited to see Vince Vaughn back in action? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Stree 2: The Horror-Comedy Frenzy is Back!

Stree 2: The Horror-Comedy Frenzy is Back!

Get Ready to Be Scared Silly (Again)!

The wait is finally over! The much-anticipated sequel to the blockbuster hit Stree is set to release on Independence Day, August 15, 2024. Stree 2 promises to be bigger, scarier, and funnier than its predecessor, bringing back the iconic trio of Shraddha Kapoor, Rajkummar Rao, and Pankaj Tripathi.

What to Expect from Stree 2

While the plot details are still under wraps, the trailer hints at a continuation of the eerie yet humorous world of Chanderi. The film is expected to delve deeper into the mysterious occurrences plaguing the town, with Stree's legend taking a more sinister turn. Of course, the signature blend of horror and comedy that made the first installment a cult classic will be intact.

The Star Power of Stree 2

Shraddha Kapoor's portrayal of Stree was a revelation, and her return is undoubtedly one of the biggest highlights of the sequel. Rajkummar Rao, as the ever-fearful Vicky, is back to deliver his signature comic timing. And Pankaj Tripathi, with his impeccable acting skills, is sure to add another layer of depth to the story.

A Perfect Independence Day Treat

Releasing on India's Independence Day, Stree 2 is poised to be a blockbuster. There's no better way to celebrate the spirit of freedom than with a film that's both thrilling and entertaining. So, gather your friends and family, and prepare for a cinematic experience like no other.

Are you ready to face Stree again? Share your excitement in the comments below!