Human bondage and bonds

‘Ullozhukku’, a brilliantly crafted Malayalam movie, strikes a delicate balance between heartbreak and hope, delivering a narrative that resonates deeply. With its beautifully penned script and stellar performances, the film delves into the lives of two women — Anju (Parvathy Thiruvothu) and Leelamma (Urvashi) — navigating the confines of a patriarchal household.

The story begins with Anju, a young woman coerced into marrying Thomaskutty, a wealthy man chosen by her parents after her boyfriend, Rajeev (Arjun Radhakrishnan), fails to rise to the occasion. Anju’s loveless, stifling new life unfolds alongside her mother-in-law, Leelamma, whose character grows central to the narrative as they both adapt to their altered realities.

The movie masterfully captures the undercurrents of misogyny and patriarchal dominance through quiet, powerful scenes, particularly in the forced intimacy of Anju’s marriage to Thomaskutty (Prashanth Murali). When he falls gravely ill, Anju transitions from a reluctant wife to an indispensable caregiver, subtly highlighting the burdens placed on women in such societal setups.

As the narrative progresses, the story’s pace mirrors life itself — unfolding slowly, yet profoundly. The relentless rain, Thomaskutty’s prolonged funeral, the unraveling of a past love affair, and the revelation of a pregnancy add layers to the story, but they remain secondary to the poignant relationship between Anju and Leelamma.

The true heart of ‘Ullozhukku’ lies in the evolving bond between the two women. Despite their differences, they find solidarity in shared struggles, empathy, and love. Their connection transcends the oppressive environment they inhabit, making their story both heartbreaking and uplifting.

The film’s restrained direction ensures that every scene leaves the audience immersed in its emotional world. Empathy binds the characters and viewers alike, and lingers long after the credits roll.

Regardless of the choices Anju makes, it’s the tenderness and shared humanity between her and Leelamma that leave the strongest impression.