1001 Nunakal movie review: A slow burner that underlines it’s all fun and games until truths begin to pour out

The story, set in Al Khobar, Saudi Arabia, starts with two couples – Mujeeb and Salma, and Rajesh and Sowmya, along with their children – relocating to a large mansion owned by their friend after a fire ravages their apartment complex. Most of their possessions are lost, leaving them with only a few belongings and a clear sense of distress that’s evident on their faces.

During their stay, their hosts, Vinay and Divya, propose that the couples extend their stay to celebrate the former’s 10th wedding anniversary. The gathering expands to include a few more friends, and they all come together at Vinay and Divya’s place to mark the joyful occasion.

To add some “excitement” to the night, they collectively agree to a game where each person shares a previous lie they told their partner and then reveals the truth. While the game starts in a lighthearted manner, it takes an unexpected turn as the revelations become more intense. Some revelations deepen certain relationships, while others create rifts. The situation escalates to the point where mutual suspicion arises among the group.

While this backdrop could evoke memories of Jeethu Joseph’s mystery thriller 12th Man, 1001 Nunakal only coincides with the Mohanlal movie in terms of this. Its tone and the execution of the game differ significantly from the aforementioned film as Thamar’s movie takes a more realistic approach rather than the suspenseful atmosphere of a thriller.

The standout feature of the production is its well-crafted screenplay, penned by Thamar and Hashim Sulaiman. The script maintains a consistent pace from start to finish, skillfully avoiding any unnecessary deviations. Despite the movie’s concise 104-minute duration, both writers have succeeded in granting significant importance to each character, both individually and within their respective relationships.

Notably, the dialogues crafted by the duo deserve special recognition for their nuanced nature and distinct dialects, effectively highlighting the diverse origins of the characters hailing from various parts of Kerala. The screenplay adeptly delves into diverse facets of each character, shedding light even on how men easily manipulate women, leading the latter to believe they are solely at fault.

The only issue within the narrative lies in its embrace of the stereotype that paints the domestic worker as the perpetrator during a crucial plot juncture. Although this was essential for the character’s dynamics, it did appear to rely on a stereotypical portrayal of the economically disadvantaged.

It’s also undeniable that certain aspects of the film’s composition evoke memories of Bash Mohammed’s Lukka Chuppi (2015), though the narrative and the manner in which events unfold are entirely distinct.

On the performance front, while familiar faces such as Zhinz Shan, Remya Suresh, and Vishnu Agasthya excel in their respective roles, delivering commendable performances, the film introduces a group of fresh talents who collectively uphold the quality with their outstanding acting. Notably, Shamla Hamza shines prominently among them.

Furthermore, the film’s exceptional art direction, led by Ashik S, contributes to its visual allure. Every scene in 1001 Nunakal boasts a sense of opulence and completion, thanks to his team’s meticulous efforts. Unlike the tendency in many movies to overly emphasise the wealth of characters residing in expansive mansions through unnecessary additions, 1001 Nunakal prudently ensures that only essential elements are presented on screen, and even these are tastefully placed.

Cinematographer Jithin Stansilaus’ skillfully composed frames and the precise cuts by editor Nishad Yusuf too are worthy of mention. Furthermore, Neha Nair and Yakzan make a significant impact by crafting background scores that harmonise seamlessly with the film’s rhythm and essence.

In short, 1001 Nunakal isn’t tailored for those craving fast-paced shots with captivating moments every 10 minutes. Nevertheless, for those in search of a meticulously crafted viewing experience that unfurls at its own unhurried pace, the film certainly won’t let them down.

The film is now streaming on SonyLIV.

1001 Nunakal movie cast: Vishnu Agasthya, Remya Suresh, Shamla Hamza, Zhinz Shan
1001 Nunakal movie director: Thamar KV
1001 Nunakal movie rating: 3.5 stars