hello dubaikkaran movie review

HELLO DUBAIKKARAN MOVIE REVIEEW:

                                              Hello Dubaikkaran is the latest in a long list of Malayalam films that have used the trope of getting to Dubai, which has been the land of opportunities for Malayalis. The first few scenes of the film introduce the audience to its protagonist, Prakashan (Adil Ibrahim). At a school-going age, he grows up watching the celebrity status and the respect given to an NRI neighbour Hamsakka (Devan) by the people in his village. This prompts him to say that he wants to be a 'Dubaikkaran' when his teacher asks him about his ambition in life. In a lot of ways, the scene sets the tone for the entire film and summarises the plot too.

                                           The movie has a slew of characters revolving around the affable Prakashan and his attempts to secure a job in Dubai. Despite his unsuccessful attempts making him a laughing stock for his family and village folks, he never loses the will to try again - thanks to the support of his best friend Auto Keshu (Dharmajan) and his girlfriend Jyothi (Malavika Menon).

                                         The story though takes an interesting turn when fate toys with Prakashan's final attempt to fly to Dubai. From then on, with clever twists and turns, the film keeps the audience engaged. Adil as an actor shines in action and emotional scenes but comedy doesn't seem to be his cup of tea. Malavika, who plays a school teacher, doesn't have much to perform either.The initial scenes narrating an NRI's welcome to his hometown is sure to stir some nostalgia and bring smiles, especially to those employed in the Gulf.

                                             The movie's slapstick comedy by actors such as Salim Kumar, Dharmajan and Mammukkoya deliver some laugh-out-loud moments. However, for most parts, the forced humour, crass comedy and formulaic dialogues suck the soul out of the film, which only picks pace in the second half when Prakashan's life turns topsy-turvy.

                                       All in all, Hello Dubaikkaran is an average fare that has a few laughs. Its directors Harisri Yusuf and Baburaj Harisri have crammed in romance, music, drama and action into a film which could have been better, had it some clarity in vision and execution.