The 70th National Film Awards have shone a spotlight on some remarkable films, and among them, one that has garnered significant attention is the Malayalam film Attam. Directed by Anand Ekarshi, Attam has not only won the prestigious Best Feature Film award but also clinched accolades for Best Editing (Mahesh Bhuvanendra) and Best Screenplay in Malayalam. As the 13th Malayalam film to achieve this distinction, Attam is making waves in the Indian film industry.
Plot and Premise of Attam
Attam, which means “The Play” in English, is a gripping courtroom drama that draws inspiration from the Hollywood classic Twelve Angry Men. The film, released in 2023, is Anand Ekarshi’s directorial debut and is produced under the banner of Joy Movie Productions. The story revolves around a theatre group consisting of 12 members, with a young actress as the sole female member. She accuses a popular film star of sexual harassment, sparking a heated debate among the 11 male members of the group.
The film masterfully weaves together themes of ego, politics, and social justice, addressing long-standing societal structures and the struggle for rights. As the drama unfolds, the characters are forced to confront their morals and beliefs, leading to a tense and thought-provoking narrative.
Watch Attam on OTT
For those eager to watch this critically acclaimed film, Attam is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. To access it, viewers will need an active Prime subscription.
Storyline and Themes
The heart of Attam lies in the intense discussions and moral dilemmas faced by the theatre group members after the sexual harassment accusation is made. Anjali, the actress at the center of the controversy, is portrayed by Zarine Shihab. She is the only woman in the group, which includes characters with diverse backgrounds—ranging from a chef to a former newspaper editor. Vinay Forrt plays Vinay, a character who has a close relationship with Anjali and is one of her staunch supporters within the group.
The film delves into the internal conflicts of these 11 men as they grapple with the severity of the crime and the appropriate response. The narrative explores how societal norms and personal biases influence their decisions, making Attam a poignant reflection on justice and morality.
Why Attam Stands Out
What sets Attam apart from other films is its bold and uncompromising approach to addressing sensitive issues. The film doesn’t shy away from making provocative statements, such as the idea that “all men are rapists,” which challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about gender dynamics and societal attitudes. In an era marked by the global #MeToo movement, Attam resonates deeply, offering a critical commentary on the nuances of harassment and the importance of justice.
The Cast of Attam
Attam boasts a talented ensemble cast that brings depth and authenticity to the film’s complex characters. Alongside Zarine Shihab and Vinay Forrt, the film features performances by Kalabhavan Shajohn, Aji Tiruvamkulam, Jolly Antony, Madan Babu, Nandan Unni, Prashant Madhavan, Sanosh Murali, Santosh Piravom, Selvaraj Raghavan, Sijin Sijesh, and Sudheer Babu. Each actor delivers a compelling portrayal, contributing to the film’s overall impact.
Attam—A Film for Our Times
Attam is more than just a film; it’s a necessary conversation starter in today’s world. With its thought-provoking narrative, powerful performances, and timely themes, Attam has rightly earned its place among the best films of the year. For anyone interested in socially relevant cinema that challenges the status quo, Attam is a must-watch.
