Movie:

Hello Mummy is a 2024 Malayalam supernatural comedy directed by Vaishakh Elans, featuring Aishwarya Lekshmi and Sharafudheen. The film presents a humorous take on the traditional dynamics of family relationships, particularly focusing on the unique challenges faced by a newlywed husband dealing with the ghost of his mother-in-law.

Story Summary

The plot centers around Boney, who falls in love with Steffy and agrees to live with her family after their marriage. However, he soon discovers that impressing Steffy's mother is complicated by the fact that she has been dead for 22 years. What begins as a seemingly absurd requirement quickly escalates into a comedic adventure as Boney finds himself living with a ghostly mother-in-law who imposes strict rules that he must follow.

Review Highlights

Comedic Elements: The film cleverly subverts the typical mother-in-law versus daughter-in-law trope by introducing a son-in-law who is bewildered by the supernatural situation. This fresh perspective creates plenty of slapstick moments as Boney navigates his new life filled with ghostly encounters and absurd rules. Critics have noted that Sharafudheen's performance stands out, showcasing his ability to deliver humor through physical comedy and expressive dialogue.

Character Dynamics: Aishwarya Lekshmi's portrayal of Steffy provides a counterbalance to the chaotic energy brought by Boney's interactions with the ghost. While her character requires a more subdued approach, some critics felt that certain scenes involving her and her father lacked comedic depth, resulting in moments that felt amateurish.

Subplots and Pacing: The film includes a subplot involving immortals pursuing the mother’s spirit, which critics described as thin and somewhat disconnected from the main narrative. This subplot becomes more prominent in the film's final act but is perceived as an afterthought that detracts from the overall flow of the story. Additionally, while the first half maintains comedic momentum, the second half struggles to keep viewers engaged, leading to a predictable conclusion.

Production Quality: Some reviewers pointed out that the film seems constrained by its budget, which affects its overall production quality. Despite this, it manages to deliver an entertaining experience for audiences looking for lighthearted comedy.

Final Verdict

Hello Mummy is recommended as a one-time watch, particularly appealing to younger audiences due to its playful humor and supernatural elements. While it may not resonate equally with adult viewers due to its predictability and occasional writing flaws, it successfully provides enough laughs to entertain for most of its runtime. The film's breezy pace and engaging performances make it a fun addition to the Malayalam comedy genre.

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