ITTYMAANI MADE IN CHINA MOVIE REVIEW CLICK TO RATE THE MOVIE

Written and directed by Jibi Joju, Ittymaani: Made in China stars Mohanlal in a dual role while KPAC Lalitha, Siddique, and others, star in crucial supporting roles. The comedy entertainer is produced by Antony Perumbavoor under the banner Aashirvad Cinemas.

Ittymaani: Made in China deals with Ittymaani, son of a China-based Malayali resident Ittymaathan (both played by Mohanlal). An aged bachelor with a penchant for receiving commissions in every dealing he makes, Ittymaani deals with selling counterfeit products, a business that passed onto him by his father (who, going by his scenes and looks in the film, appears to be a Shaolin master). What happens if his fakery leads to adverse consequences forms the rest of the film.

The initial portions open with less intrigue, where we are introduced to Ittymaani's character through a twisted, yet humourous stretch. After that, the film gives a barrage of perfunctory moments. There is a melodramatic subplot involving Ittymaani's neighbour Annamma (played by Radhika), who is longing for her children's arrival.

Despite having such a predictable plot that offers lesser surprises, Ittymaani's bond with his mother Theyyamma (played by KPAC Lalitha) comes as a breather. After going through about forty minutes of flabby writing, the film picks up the pace when Ittymaani faces a comeuppance for his acts. The film gets a bit more intriguing with the arrival of Father Joppan (Siddique puts up a spirited performance), a new parish with whom Ittymaani shares a funny past.

The melodrama too becomes bearable at the end of the first half since Annamma's plight is shown as a contrast to Ittymaani's beautiful relationship with his mother. The unexpected interval twist is a high point of the film, which happens to portray an issue that is often considered taboo, according to our mainstream standards.

After the high point of the first half, the film loses some steam with the arrival of Annamma's children and her family (who appears to be extremely one-note in terms of characterization). The film begins to take itself too seriously and the humour becomes inconsistent. But the lack of self-importance of our protagonist makes up for the flaws in the film's writing. The presence of crass humour at many places is a cause of concern.

Ittymaani is Mohanlal's show all the way. His chemistry with KPAC Lalitha is one of the saving grace of the film. Jibi Joju's writing offers some hilarious moments, especially when around the interval block. Aju Varghese's one-liners evoke humour at most places. Overall, Ittymaani: Made in China is a good entertainer with Mohanlal and KPAC Lalitha's feisty performances and the warm on-screen presence shared by them.

ITTYMAANI MADE IN CHINA VIDEO REVIEW