Aattam review: Anand Ekarshi deftly and compellingly examines the complexities of human nature in this film

3.5/5

Aattam Story

The lone female artist on the Arangu theatre group claims that a fellow member touched her inappropriately during a post-performance get-together, leaving the other members of the group shocked. Some opted to support the victim out of concern for public shame or self-interest, while others decided to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident without taking sides. The main plot point of the movie is how the conversation suddenly changes after multiple truths are revealed.

Aattam Review

Anand Ekarshi's Aattam is a clever interpretation of how people can alter their statements depending on their personal gain in a variety of situations. Nevertheless, it is a concise analysis of a situation where an individual, irrespective of any gender, is held accountable based on others’ convenience.

Among the fourteen members of the theatre group Arangu, architect Anjali is the only female artist. Being involved in the troupe since she was sixteen, Anjali believes it to be her safe haven until a dramatic incident that occurs after a get-together after a play alters everything. She decides to confide in Vinay, her colleague, and lover, and leave the group. But he uses it as a chance to his advantage, talking her into staying and getting her to take an action against the alleged offender.

Also Read: Vinay Forrt: Neither is Aattam a preachy movie nor is it a women-centric one | Exclusive 

To decide on the next step, Vinay and a senior group member call a meeting with every person in the group—aside from the perpetuator. The film revolves around the group's conversations, each member's evolving viewpoint after a series of events, and the revelation of some truths.

The film amazes the audience in a lot of ways, such as its captivating story and the actors' outstanding performances. It is undoubtedly an emotional trip, and while it's easy to point the finger at some of the characters for their blunt and harsh remarks, one eventually realises that these are just some of the remarks that he or she has probably heard or endured at some point in their lives.

The best component of Aattam is its characters, who are shown to be merely flawed people rather than idealised versions of themselves. The harsh reality that, more often, one's convenience or personal gain take precedence over the pursuit of the truth or the victim's justice has also been carefully discussed by the makers.

Workplace harassment is a subplot that they have skillfully included, demonstrating how anyone can fall victim to a situation, regardless of gender. The film's deft use of natural jokes in between the troupe members' conversations without making them seem ridiculous in the middle of a serious scene is another commendable aspect. With their powerful acts, each artist—especially Zarin Shihab, who plays Anjali—has made an equal contribution to the movie.

Also Read: Anand Ekarshi On Making His Malayalam Feature Debut With The Acclaimed Aattam 

Even with its occasional lag, the film never fails to captivate viewers with its engrossing storytelling.

Taking everything into account, Aattam has been able to effectively depict the harsh reality of the stereotyped mindset that permeates our society even today, depriving them of their right to truth and their personal space.

Aattam Verdict

On the whole, Aattam will certainly impress the audience with its intricate story and plausible subjects that are covered, proving that it does not cater to any specific stream of film.

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