Movie Title: A.R.M
Language: Malayalam, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada
Genre: Action, Thriller
Director: Jithin Jal
Producers: Gokulam Gopalan
Actors: Appani Sarath, Anson Paul, Jaffer Idukki, Senthil Krishna
Runtime: 127 minutes
Rating: 7.1/10
A gritty regional action thriller with a socially relevant core, ARM walks the tightrope between mass entertainment and message-driven storytelling.
ARM (short for Aruvam Rendum Maari) is a Malayalam action thriller directed by Jithin Jal that attempts to blend stylized action with a storyline rooted in contemporary issues. With its bilingual approach and a cast headlined by Appani Sarath, the film sets out to explore themes of justice, corruption, and brotherhood in a rural-urban backdrop.
Plot Summary
The narrative revolves around a group of vigilante men who operate under the name “ARM” to bring justice where the legal system fails. The protagonist, played by Appani Sarath, is a former soldier who takes the law into his own hands after being disillusioned by systemic failures. As the group gains popularity for punishing the corrupt, they also attract the wrath of powerful enemies. The story intensifies when a personal vendetta intersects with their mission, culminating in a confrontation that tests their values and survival.
Direction and Screenplay
Jithin Jal brings a raw intensity to the storytelling, using a non-linear screenplay that attempts to keep the audience engaged. While the direction is ambitious, certain portions especially in the second act suffer from pacing issues. The screenplay juggles too many themes at once, which at times dilutes the emotional core. However, Jal’s effort to blend social critique with commercial tropes is commendable.
Performances
Appani Sarath delivers a committed performance, showcasing both physical intensity and emotional restraint. Anson Paul provides a solid supporting act, while Jaffer Idukki and Senthil Krishna bring depth and occasional levity to the proceedings. Despite limited screen time for character development, the cast ensures the film maintains its dramatic weight.
Technical Aspects
The cinematography by Prasanth Krishna gives the film a gritty tone, especially effective in the night sequences and action scenes. The background score by Sam C.S. amplifies the mood well, though the placement of songs occasionally disrupts the flow. Editing could have been tighter, particularly in the midsection where the narrative feels bloated.
Strengths
- Strong performances by Appani Sarath and the supporting cast
- A relevant theme of vigilante justice and societal failure
- Engaging cinematography and background score
- A unique bilingual execution with Tamil crossover appeal
Weaknesses
- Inconsistent pacing, especially in the second half
- Overcrowded screenplay with too many subplots
- Some dialogues feel overly didactic, affecting realism
- Underdeveloped antagonist arc reduces the final impact
Final Verdict
ARM is a brave attempt at delivering an action-packed thriller with a message. Despite its narrative flaws and tonal imbalance, the film succeeds in parts due to its compelling performances and thought-provoking premise. It might not break new ground in storytelling, but it does enough to leave an impression.
Recommended for
Fans of regional action thrillers, viewers interested in social justice narratives, and those who enjoy gritty, performance-driven cinema with a mix of style and substance.