Kochi,May 1: Director Mahesh Narayanan brings together Malayalam cinema’s biggest icons, Mammootty and Mohanlal, in Patriot, a socio-political thriller that places digital surveillance and state power at the heart of its narrative. Unlike conventional star-driven films, Patriot positions its superstars as instruments of a larger political commentary rather than building the story around their aura.
The film introduces Mammootty as Daniel James, a senior official in a Union government ministry, who stumbles upon a covert and potentially dangerous surveillance network. The system is allegedly orchestrated by a powerful politician, J.P. Sundaram, played by Rajiv Menon, and his corporate-backed son Shakthi, portrayed by Fahadh Faasil. As Daniel begins to piece together the implications of this network, he is forced into hiding, triggering a tense cat-and-mouse narrative.
Narayanan structures the screenplay in a way that breaks down the complex issue of surveillance into accessible segments. Through narrative devices such as a mock tech review, evasion tactics like avoiding toll booths, and the depiction of a universal identity system being used for tracking citizens, the film attempts to simplify a deeply layered subject for a broader audience. It also subtly questions the popular justification of “nothing to hide” often used to defend intrusive surveillance.
While the film’s central theme remains compelling and relevant, especially in the current socio-political climate, the narrative occasionally follows predictable patterns. The much-anticipated reunion of Mammootty and Mohanlal—nearly two decades after their last collaboration—does not rely on fan-service moments, offering instead a restrained and serious interaction. Mohanlal appears in an extended cameo, while Mammootty shoulders the film with a performance that anchors the story.
Supporting performances from Kunchacko Boban and Fahadh Faasil add depth, though actors like Revathi and Nayanthara are underutilised. The film’s technical aspects, including high production values and Sushin Shyam’s subtle background score, enhance the viewing experience.
Despite a somewhat rushed final act and limited dramatic highs, Patriot stands out as a bold cinematic attempt to address surveillance anxieties, making it both engaging and thought-provoking.
