What happens when an ordinary man becomes the centre of extraordinary circumstances? I, Nobody, directed by Nissam Basheer and starring Prithviraj Sukumaran and Parvathy Thiruvothu, begins as a tense bank heist thriller before unfolding into a layered exploration of marriage, media sensationalism, public perception and the fragile nature of heroism. Blending action, satire and emotional drama, the Malayalam film attempts to hold up a mirror to contemporary society while keeping audiences invested in its suspenseful narrative.
Review by Rajeshwari Kalyanam
Rajeev is a nobody, like millions of us in this country. A government employee, he is married with two children. It is a regular marriage where every morning follows the same routine—the family prepares breakfast, gets ready for school and office—but the couple (Parvathy Thiruvothu plays the wife) are constantly fighting and are on the verge of separation.
A rift that threatens to widen when, one morning, Rajeev ends up at a bank on a personal mission but gets entangled in a bank heist. The incident quickly escalates and takes a dangerous turn, threatening the safety of Rajeev and his family.
I, Nobody, starring Prithviraj, starts as a heist film before evolving into an emotional husband-wife saga, an action film, a suspense drama and a piece of social commentary that takes on a satirical tone whenever the opportunity arises. Directed by Nissam Basheer, it is the story of a common man and how new-age media can destroy a person while simultaneously making a hero out of a nobody. It is a reflection of today’s society, driven by mass hysteria and impulsive reactions, while also showing how the same collective energy can become a powerful force of resistance. The power of a common individual when unleashed can be a force to reckon with, and it is thrpugh Rajeev that director tries to drive this point home.
Aided by Jakes Bejoy‘s background score, which elevates the film, especially during the action sequences, I, Nobody coaxes you into its multilayered narrative. It delights with its satire, and you can’t help but relate to the societal excesses and deficits that the film brings attention to.
The way the film shifts from one genre to another is impressive, but for the gaps it leaves and the occasional discord it creates. For example, the action sequences are brilliant on their own, especially the fights in confined spaces like the lift and the bus, which are a treat to watch. However, they also add unnecessary length to the film.
Without doubt, I, Nobody is an important reflection of our times, but it also falters in places. One such misstep undermines an otherwise thought-provoking climax.
That said, the performances—and the film itself—must be watched for their craft and intent.
Rating: 2.5/5
