Movie Review: Qalb (2024)
Language: Malayalam
Genre: Romantic Tragedy
Director: Sajid Yahiya
Producers: Vijay Babu
Actors: Ranjith Sajeev, Neha Nazneen, Siddique, Jaffer Idukki, Lena, Athira Patel
Rating: 6.5/10
Qalb, released in January 2024, is a Malayalam romantic tragedy directed by Sajid Yahiya. The film explores the seven stages of love, drawing inspiration from Sufi traditions. Despite its initial theatrical release receiving mixed reviews, the film found a more appreciative audience upon its OTT release, leading to a reevaluation of its merits.
Plot Summary
Set against the backdrop of Alappuzha, Qalb follows Leonardo Kaalpo, a young man who, along with his father, runs a café on Dolphin Beach. His aspirations of marrying an English-speaking woman to settle abroad take a turn when he meets Thumbi, a spirited local girl. Their relationship unfolds through the seven stages of love Dilkashi (attraction), Uns (infatuation), Ishq (love), Akidat (trust), Ibadat (worship), Junoon (madness), and Maut (death) each bringing its own challenges and revelations.
Direction and Screenplay
Sajid Yahiya’s direction attempts to infuse a conventional love story with depth by incorporating Sufi elements and the unique setting of Alappuzha. The screenplay, co-written with Suhail Koya, endeavors to portray the emotional evolution of the protagonists. While the narrative structure is ambitious, some critics have pointed out that the execution occasionally lacks the emotional intensity required to fully engage the audience.
Performances
Ranjith Sajeev portrays Leonardo Kaalpo with earnestness, showing growth from his previous roles. Neha Nazneen, in her debut, delivers a commendable performance as Thumbi, capturing the character’s vivacity and depth. Siddique, as Leonardo’s father, provides a grounded and nuanced performance, adding emotional weight to the story. The supporting cast, including Jaffer Idukki and Lena, contribute effectively to the film’s narrative fabric.
Technical Aspects
The cinematography by Sharon Sreenivas beautifully captures the essence of Alappuzha, from its historic streets to the serene beaches. The musical score, composed by Prakash Alex, Vimal Nazar, and Nihal Sadiq, complements the film’s emotional landscape, with songs that resonate with the themes of love and longing. The editing by Amal Manoj ensures a coherent flow, although some scenes could have benefited from tighter pacing.
Strengths
- Innovative integration of Sufi concepts into the narrative
- Strong performances by the lead and supporting actors
- Visually appealing cinematography capturing Alappuzha’s charm
- Soulful musical score enhancing the emotional depth
Weaknesses
- Inconsistent pacing affecting narrative engagement
- Occasional lack of emotional intensity in key scenes
- Some dialogues and transitions feel forced or out of place
These shortcomings, while notable, do not significantly detract from the overall viewing experience.
Final Verdict
Qalb is an ambitious film that seeks to delve deep into the complexities of love through a Sufi lens. While it doesn’t always hit the mark, the film’s heartfelt performances, visual beauty, and musical richness make it a worthwhile watch for those interested in romantic dramas that offer more than just surface-level storytelling.
Recommended for
Viewers who appreciate romantic dramas with cultural and philosophical depth, fans of Malayalam cinema looking for fresh narratives, and those interested in films that explore the multifaceted nature of love.