Ajayante Randam Moshanam (ARM): The Malayalam Movie That’s Taking Cinema by Storm!

Ajayante Randam Moshanam (ARM) is a highly anticipated 2024 Malayalam-language film, directed by Jithin Laal, featuring a blend of fantasy, action, and drama. The movie showcases Tovino Thomas in a triple role, alongside an ensemble cast of Krithi Shetty, Aishwarya Rajesh, and Basil Joseph. With its expansive storyline set across different timelines, rich visual effects, and strong performances, ARM has become a significant hit of the year.

Overview

ARM tells a multi-generational story set across three different time periods: 1900, 1950, and 1990. At its core, the film follows the journey of three men from the same family—Kunjikelu, Maniyan, and Ajayan—each played by Tovino Thomas, who must protect a sacred lamp that holds significance for their village. The movie merges action, fantasy, and mythology, making it a grand visual spectacle.

Story

The plot revolves around Ajayan, an electrician in the 1990s, who embarks on a mission to recover the family’s lost ancestral lamp. The narrative traces his connections to two of his ancestors—Kunjikelu, a warrior from 1900, and Maniyan, a thief in 1950—both of whom were involved in the protection of the same artifact. As Ajayan battles modern-day challenges, the movie weaves through flashbacks of his ancestors’ attempts to secure the lamp, creating a thrilling story about heritage, justice, and love​.

Star Cast and Their Roles

In Ajayante Randam Moshanam (ARM), Tovino Thomas shines by playing three key roles that connect across different generations. He portrays Kunjikelu, a brave warrior from the early 1900s; Maniyan, a clever thief in the 1950s; and Ajayan, an electrician in the 1990s, each character adding depth to the narrative.

Supporting him are Krithi Shetty as Lakshmi, Ajayan’s love interest; Aishwarya Rajesh as Chothi; and Surabhi Lakshmi as Manikyam, Maniyan’s wife. Basil Joseph plays K.P. Suresh, bringing humor to the film, while veterans Rohini, Aju Varghese, and Jagadish also contribute significant roles. This ensemble allows the film to effectively explore themes of love, heritage, and honor across various eras​

Behind the Scenes

Directed by Jithin Laal, ARM was written by Sujith Nambiar. The film is produced by UGM Entertainment, with a vast technical team bringing the fantasy elements to life. The movie’s action sequences, especially involving Tovino Thomas, were choreographed by top stunt coordinators. The conversion from 2D to 3D for its theatrical release added to its visual appeal​.

Production

Filming for ARM began in October 2022 and wrapped up in March 2023 after 118 days. The production team meticulously recreated three distinct eras, showcasing detailed set designs and costume work. Made on a budget of ₹30 crore, the movie was primarily shot in Kerala, utilizing cutting-edge VFX and CGI to enhance the story’s fantasy elements​.

Budget and Box Office Collection

With a production budget of ₹30 crore, ARM grossed ₹75 crore worldwide within 14 days of its release, establishing it as a commercial success. The film has been declared a super hit and continues to perform well in theaters​.

Release (Theatrical and OTT)

Ajayante Randam Moshanam was released on September 12, 2024, in both 2D and 3D formats. The film is currently playing in theaters, and although the official OTT release date has not been confirmed, it is expected to be available on a leading platform later in 2024​.

Songs

The movie’s music was composed by Dhibu Ninan Thomas, making his debut in Malayalam cinema. The standout song from the film is:

• “Kiliye“ – Sung by K.S. Harisankar and Anila Rajeev, this soulful track blends traditional Kerala music with modern elements, creating an evocative mood. The film’s background score also enhances its emotional depth and action scenes​.
• “Kooriruttilu Kaalkulambadi” features music composed by Dhibu Ninan Thomas, with lyrics by Manu Manjith, and is sung by Charu Hariharan. The track successfully blends traditional Malayalam music with modern styles, creating a catchy and enjoyable listening experience
• “Kooriruttilu Kaalkulambadi” features music by Dhibu Ninan Thomas and lyrics by Manu Manjith, with vocals by Charu Hariharan. Starring Tovino Thomas, the track uniquely blends traditional Malayalam music with modern styles, making it catchy and enjoyable
• “Angu Vaana Konilu” is a standout song sung by Dhibu Ninan Thomas and Vaikom Vijayalakshmi, it features soulful melodies and themes of love. With music by Dhibu and lyrics by Manu Manjith, it’s a memorable addition to the film’s soundtrack.

Critic Review

Critics have praised ARM for its narrative ambition and visual grandeur. Rohit Panikker from Times Now rated it 4/5, calling it a “visual spectacle supported by masterful storytelling.” The Times of India gave the film 3.5/5, appreciating its engaging performances but noting minor pacing issues. Overall, the film has been well-received by both critics and audiences, who have lauded Tovino Thomas’ performance in the demanding triple role​.

Conclusion

Ajayante Randam Moshanam (ARM) stands out in Malayalam cinema for its engaging storytelling and remarkable performances, particularly by Tovino Thomas in his three diverse roles. The film’s exploration of love, honor, and heritage, supported by a captivating soundtrack, resonates deeply with audiences. With positive reviews highlighting its emotional depth, ARM is not only a box office success but also a testament to the fusion of traditional and contemporary music styles.

FAQ About Ajayante Randam Moshanam (ARM)

• What genre is Ajayante Randam Moshanam?
  It is a fantasy action-drama film with elements of mythology.
• Who plays the lead role in ARM?
  Tovino Thomas plays the lead, portraying three different characters across three time periods.
• Who composed the music?
  The music was composed by Dhibu Ninan Thomas.
• When was the film released?
  The movie was released on September 12, 2024.
• What is the box office collection of the film?
  As of 14 days, the film grossed ₹75 crore globally.
• Who is the director of the movie?
  Jithin Laal directed the film.
• Is the movie available on OTT?
  The OTT release date has not been officially announced but is expected soon.
• What is the budget of ARM?
  The budget was ₹30 crore​
• What is the running time of Ajayante Randam Moshanam?
  The film has a running time of approximately 150 minutes, offering a rich narrative that spans multiple generations.
• Is the film based on a true story?
  While ARM draws from elements of Kerala’s cultural heritage and folklore, it is a fictional narrative with no specific historical basis.
• Are there any notable visual effects in the movie?
  Yes, the film features extensive VFX, particularly in scenes depicting mythical elements and period settings, enhancing its fantastical appeal.
• Who are the cinematographer and editor of the film?
  The cinematography is handled by Jomon T. John, and the film is edited by Shameer Muhammed, both of whom are well-regarded in the Malayalam film industry.
• What themes are explored in ARM?
  The film explores themes of love, sacrifice, heritage, and the struggle between good and evil, weaving these elements through its multi-generational storyline.
• Is there any post-credit scene in ARM?
  Yes, the movie features a post-credit scene that teases a potential sequel, further developing the story of Ajayan and his ancestors.
• What audience rating has ARM received?
  The film has been rated U/A by the Censor Board, making it suitable for family audiences, with some parental guidance recommended for younger viewers.
• What were the filming locations for ARM?
  The movie was primarily filmed in various locations across Kerala, capturing lush landscapes and historical architecture that reflect different time periods.
• How has the audience responded to ARM?
  Audience reactions have been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising Tovino Thomas’s performance and the film’s visual effects, resulting in strong box office collections.
• Will there be any special screenings or events for ARM?
  The producers have planned special screening events in key cities, especially for fans and press, to celebrate the film’s success and connect with the audience.
• What is the main conflict in the movie?
  The primary conflict revolves around Ajayan’s quest to retrieve the sacred lamp while facing opposition from various antagonists who wish to misuse its power.
• What has been said about the action sequences in the film?
  Critics have praised the choreography and execution of the action sequences, highlighting their intensity and relevance to the storyline.
• Are there any other notable collaborations in the film?
  The film showcases several collaborations with talented professionals from different departments, including acclaimed set and costume designers, enhancing its production quality.
• Is there a particular message conveyed through ARM?
  The film conveys messages about the importance of heritage and community, emphasizing that the fight for justice is a timeless endeavor across generations.
• Are there any sequels planned for ARM?
  While no official announcements have been made, the film’s success has opened the door for potential sequels, as hinted in the post-credit scene.
• Who designed the costumes for the film?
  Costume design was handled by Praveen Varma, who meticulously crafted outfits that reflect the distinct eras portrayed in the film.
• What is the film’s primary target audience?
  ARM targets a broad audience, including families, fans of action and fantasy genres, and those interested in Malayalam cinema.
• Is ARM available in multiple languages?
  Currently, the film is released in Malayalam, with plans for dubbed versions in Tamil and Telugu expected soon.
• What kind of reception did the film receive at film festivals?
  ARM was well-received at several film festivals prior to its theatrical release, garnering accolades for its storytelling and technical achievements.
• Who handled the visual effects for ARM?
  The VFX for the film were overseen by a team from Envision VFX, contributing significantly to the film’s fantasy elements.
• Are there any notable cameos in the film?
  The film features a few special cameo appearances by well-known Malayalam actors, adding to its star power.
• What age group is ARM suitable for?
  The film is primarily aimed at a family audience, with appropriate content for viewers aged 12 and above.
• How has the cinematography been received?
  The cinematography has been highly praised for its stunning visuals and seamless transitions between the three time periods.
• Is there a social media presence for ARM?
  Yes, the film has active social media profiles that share updates, behind-the-scenes content, and fan interactions.
• What makes ARM different from other films in the genre?
  ARM stands out due to its unique narrative structure, combining multiple timelines with a deep emotional core, setting it apart from typical fantasy films.
• Can I purchase merchandise related to ARM?
  Yes, official merchandise such as posters, apparel, and collectibles are available online, appealing to fans of the film.

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