Rifle Club Review
Introduction: A Story of Guns and Legacy:
Rifle Club revolves around the legacy of guns in a family that has passed them down through generations. The story takes place in a large ancestral home, where these guns—once used by British colonizers—are seen as a cherished inheritance. Hunting is a hobby passed down from one generation to the next, but when an unexpected event occurs, it leads to a series of problems that form the core of the plot. The house is filled with guns of various sizes, each one with a story.
The Significance of Tradition
Beneath the guns, the names of the “tigers” who once handled them are written, adding a personal touch to each weapon. At one point, Dileesh Pothan’s character, Secretary Avaran, states, “A good gun has no owner, only tradition,” which emphasizes how deeply the family values its guns and hunting tradition.
Director Aashiq Abu’s Craftsmanship
The biggest highlight of Rifle Club is undoubtedly its making. From the opening scene to the final shot, Aashiq Abu keeps the audience engaged throughout the film. The way each character is introduced is unique and captivating, with the director adding some “wow” moments in various scenes.
The music, background score, cinematography, action, and dance sequences all complement the narrative, making the film visually and emotionally engaging. It’s impressive how a simple story is brought to life through such meticulous filmmaking. The screenplay was crafted by Shyam Pushkaran, Dileesh Karunakaran, and Suhas, and the film’s humor works effectively.
The Strong First and Second Halves
Both the first and second halves of the film are equally compelling. However, the climax feels a bit rushed, especially in Anurag Kashyap’s scene. Though the film has humor and excitement, it seems to conclude abruptly, with the buildup throughout the film not fully carrying through to the ending, which is a minor flaw.
Perfect Casting and Powerful Performances
One of the standout aspects of Rifle Club is its casting. Every actor brings their unique charm to the screen, with Dileesh Pothan delivering a powerful portrayal of Secretary Avaran. His portrayal of Avaran’s emotions and heroism is nuanced and well-handled, with every movement of his character carefully crafted.
The director also provides more clues about Avaran’s character through other characters. Anurag Kashyap plays the villain, Dayanandan, and his chemistry with Dileesh Pothan adds depth to their scenes. Anurag’s portrayal of the villain is fresh and surprising. As Dayanandan, he shocks the audience with his unusual approach, especially in his interactions with his sons.
Unique Villainy and Other Memorable Characters
Anurag Kashyap’s portrayal of the villain is a highlight. Even in the face of his sons’ deaths, his emotions and expressions feel fresh and engaging. He describes himself as a tiger, yet stands by Avaran and his family. Another noteworthy performance is Vijay Raghavan’s portrayal of Lonappan. Despite being confined to a wheelchair with a pig’s leg, Vijay Raghavan brings the character to life with intensity and fire.
Other characters, played by Vishnu Agastya, Hanuman Kaind (Suraj), Suresh Krishna, Vineet Kumar, Ramzan, and Prashant Murali, contribute significantly to the film, each adding their own depth and impact to the story.
Strong Female Presence
Aashiq Abu also gives strong roles to the female characters, who stand boldly alongside the men. Vani Viswanath, Unnimaya, Surabhi Lakshmi, Darshana Rajendran, and Ponnamma Babu all deliver strong performances, each bringing their character to life with full dedication.
Cinematography and Visuals
The cinematography, handled by director Aashiq Abu himself, is one of the film’s biggest strengths. Every frame is filled with the visual beauty of Wayanad, with the large house near the forest and the room full of guns leaving a lasting impact on the viewer. The close-up shots are also meticulously done, adding emotional depth to the scenes. The editing and action sequences are also commendable, with fresh elements in the action scenes that engage the audience.
A Thrilling Action Sequence
One of the film’s thrilling moments is when Dileesh Pothan and his team shoot while descending on a rope. The director emphasizes that when united, traditional local guns are more powerful than even machine guns. This action sequence adds excitement to the film.
A Must-See Theater Experience
Rifle Club is a film that demands an excellent theater experience. It is a great watch this Christmas, especially for fans of Aashiq Abu’s filmmaking. With its gripping storyline, powerful performances, and impressive direction, the film is a cinematic treat that will keep you engaged from start to finish.
A Perfect Blend of Tradition, Family, and Action
Rifle Club stands as a testament to the power of storytelling that intertwines tradition, family legacy, and raw action. The film doesn’t just focus on guns as tools of power but explores the deeper connection they share with the characters, particularly within the context of a family that values them as symbols of pride and heritage. The story takes the viewer on a thrilling ride, diving into the complexities of generational legacies, emotional turmoil, and the unspoken ties that bind a family to its roots.
Final Rating: 4/5
Rifle Club is a must-watch this holiday season. Its gripping narrative, strong performances, breathtaking cinematography, and thrilling action sequences make it a standout film. Aashiq Abu and his team have delivered a timeless cinematic experience that combines tradition, power, and family in a way that feels both fresh and deeply rooted in its heritage.