Pravinkoodu Shappu story: Following the discovery of Babu hanging in his toddy shop, the individuals present within the establishment secure themselves inside until the police arrive. However, a confrontation that ensues complicates the crime scene, hindering the astute sub-inspector, Santhosh CJ, in his investigation, which he suspects to be a murder. He proceeds to interrogate the suspects to uncover the truth of the events that occurred. Yet, is the perpetrator more cunning than the investigator?

Pravinkoodu Shappu review: The inaugural scene of first-time director Sreeraj Sreenivasan’s Pravinkoodu Shappu features the timeless song Thumbi Vaa, evoking a sense of nostalgia associated with the purity of childhood. The lyrics, Maanathu Maamante Thalikayil... Maamunnaan Pokaamo Namukku Ini, might seem unexpectedly suitable for a sequence that is otherwise quite unsettling.

What is depicted on the screen during the musical interlude is a man being hanged as rain falls outside. It is easy to dismiss this as mere coincidence, given that toddy shops frequently play classic Malayalam songs. One might not immediately recognize that these two minutes encapsulate the essence of the events that unfold onscreen. This is the remarkable illusion that Sreeraj masterfully weaves throughout Pravinkoodu Shappu.

At first glance, the film appears to be a murder mystery, reminiscent of a Hercule Poirot narrative. The plot revolves around a murder that occurs in a toddy shop, with a dozen suspects who confine themselves to the crime scene upon discovering the owner’s lifeless body. Enter young sub-inspector Santhosh CJ, who prides himself on solving cases through his keen intellect rather than resorting to violence. However, this particular case evokes memories of his childhood trauma, rendering it both personal and redemptive as he seeks to confront and overcome his past.

The individuals implicated in this case include a former military personnel, a worker from a toddy shop, and a group of elderly alcoholics and troublemakers with prior legal issues. As Santhosh meticulously analyzes the distinct accounts of the events that unfolded, employing his keen intellect, the audience is offered various fragments of the narrative to piece together. The storyline is often unpredictable and may occasionally test one's patience; however, the concluding hour of the film reveals a surprisingly effective blend of dark humour and depth.

Basil Joseph adeptly conveys the psychological turmoil experienced by his character with remarkable accuracy. The intricacy of his role renders the investigator as compelling as the mystery he seeks to unravel. In navigating the dual demands of comedy and drama, it is easy to falter; yet, Basil maintains a delicate equilibrium, ensuring that the intensity of his performance remains intact amidst the humour. Similarly, Soubin’s character Kannan, Chemban Vinod’s Sunil, and Chandhini Sreedharan’s Merinda contribute to the intrigue surrounding each other's motives. Delving deeper into the characters would reveal spoilers, but it is the collective performances, including that of Shivajith as the toddy shop proprietor and the senior officer, that render Pravinkoodu Shappu captivating, even when the storyline experiences fluctuations in coherence.

Vishnu Vijay's musical composition not only enhances the overall experience but also enriches the film with additional depth. The cinematography, even with much of the narrative set in a poorly lit toddy shop, remains visually captivating. Sreeraj's writing is succinct, which contributes to the film's potential for a second viewing, allowing audiences to better understand the connections and appreciate the nuances of each character.

Pravinkoodu Shappu verdict: Sreeraj Sreenivasan makes a stellar debut with this riveting murder mystery where the sleight of hand and secrets unfold while keeping the emotions and humour intact. The performances and music further elevate its magic.

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