ARM (Ajayante Randam Moshanam) Review: A Bold Mythological Epic Spanning Generations

Title: ARM (Ajayante Randam Moshanam)

Language: Malayalam

Genre: Action, Fantasy, Adventure, Drama

Release Year: 2024

Director: Jithin Laal

Cast: Tovino Thomas, Krithi Shetty, Aishwarya Rajesh, Surabhi Lakshmi

Duration: Approx. 2 hours 30 minutes

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

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ARM (Ajayante Randam Moshanam) is far from a routine action film.

Blending mythology, fantasy, history, and social commentary, the film unfolds across three distinct timelines, weaving a layered narrative about power, resistance, and legacy. It stands out as one of Malayalam cinema’s most ambitious large-scale fantasy-adventure attempts, drawing deeply from folklore while reflecting on oppression and rebellion.

Rather than opting for safe commercial formulas, ARM positions itself as a cinematic experiment — bold in scope and intent.

Story Summary (No Spoilers)

The film follows a story spanning three generations, with Tovino Thomas portraying three distinct characters set in different time periods.

One timeline focuses on oppression and rebellion

Another centres on a mythical outlaw or legendary folk figure

The present timeline deals with the consequences of that past

How these timelines intersect and influence one another forms the emotional and narrative core of ARM.

The film explores themes of:

Power and oppression

Myth, folklore, and collective memory

Tradition versus modernity

Justice, resistance, and legacy

Performances

Lead Performances

Tovino Thomas

Tovino delivers a commanding triple-role performance, distinguishing each character through body language, emotional nuance, and physicality. It is easily among the strongest performances of his career.

Krithi Shetty

She brings a gentle yet emotionally grounded presence to the narrative, adding warmth and balance to the film’s heavier themes.

Supporting Performances

Aishwarya Rajesh

Leaves a strong impression with a role marked by conviction and screen presence.

Surabhi Lakshmi

Despite limited screen time, she makes a meaningful impact, reinforcing the film’s emotional texture

Direction & Screenplay

Narrative 

Style: Gradually paced, expanding steadily into a grand, epic scale

Screenplay: Layered and ambitious, connecting multiple timelines with thematic intent

Director Jithin Laal constructs a myth-driven cinematic world infused with political and social undertones. While the film demands patience, it largely succeeds as a bold and imaginative storytelling experiment.

Technical Aspects

Cinematography: 

Visually rich depictions of ancient settings contrasted with modern environments

Music & Background Score: Epic and immersive, effectively enhancing the film’s mythological tone

Visual Effects:

 Impressive by Malayalam cinema standards

Action: 

Stylised choreography with a fantasy-mythical sensibility

Highlights

Tovino Thomas’s impressive triple-role performance

Unique blend of mythology and political commentary

Expansive world-building

Strong visuals and VFX

Bold, experimental narrative approach

A theatre-worthy cinematic experience

Drawbacks

Slow narration in certain sections

Complex structure that may confuse some viewers

Emotional connect may not work equally for all audience

Final Verdict

ARM (Ajayante Randam Moshanam) is not a conventional commercial entertainer.

It is a bold, ambitious, and experimental film that challenges Malayalam cinema’s narrative boundaries. For audiences drawn to mythology-infused stories with depth, scale, and layered storytelling, ARM offers a refreshing cinematic experience.

Final Thought:

“This is not just one man’s story — it is the voice of a legacy.”

Rating & Recommendation

Rating: ★★★★☆ / 5

Recommended For:

Fantasy and mythology enthusiasts

Fans of content-driven cinema

Admirers of Tovino Thomas’s work

Best experienced in theatres

Quick Info

Production Houses: Magic Frames / UGM Entertainment

OTT Platform: Disney+ Hotstar

Box Office: ₹106–108 crore worldwide

Reception: Strong opening with positive word of mouth