Rasam Review
There is always an affinity towards films based on food, especially for an average Malayali who has that extra craving for gastronomic delights. The taste buds of a Malayali have that extra factor which enables him to tastefully gorge on a delicacy or disdainfully brush it aside. Same is the cinematic Tate of Malayali. 'Rasam' directed by Rajeev Nath has a salivating title and expectedly a good portion of the film is a take on the life of a renowned Chef family.
Balu (Indrajith) is a technical graduate who has high flying ambitions of an upwardly mobile career. The offspring of a famous cook played by Nedumudi Venue, Balu is forced to take up his family profession due to force of circumstances. A major portion of the film takes place in the Middle East where Balu owns a chain of restaurants. The story of Balu is narrated in flashback and superstar Mohanlal appears as himself in an extended cameo. It is all about how a reluctant youngster comes of age away from home and his quest to find his love. An opulent marriage forms the backdrop of a major portion in which the plot of 'Rasam' evolves.
The basic premise had promise and the film as such moves along nicely without too many ups and downs. Humour elements work only sparingly and there is nothing specially invigorating in 'Rasam'. The presence of Mohanlal is indeed the highlight and he breezes through his role with consummate ease. Indrajith is aptly cast as the lead character and he does a fairly good job, though it is not a challenging role by any means. Devan as an industrialist based in Doha and Varuna Shetty as his daughter also give a fair account of themselves. Nedumudi Venu as the master veteran chef is typically good. All other actors have done their bits in the limited scope that the script offers. Job Kurian's music and Krish Kymal's camera just about do the job.
'Rasam' is a lighthearted take by Rajeev Nath on the lives of a few expatriate Malayalis in the backdrop of the gourmet. Though not exactly a sumptuous meal that will leave you utterly satisfied ,'Rasam' doesn't leave a sour taste on your mouth. And the presence of Mohanlal adds a distinct flavour to it.
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