May 30, 2024: Mammootty’s latest outing, “Turbo,” which opened in theaters on 23rd of May promised high-octane action and comedy, but sputtered disappointingly at the box office. After a week on screen, it’s clear the film fails to capture the magic that usually surrounds the veteran actor. Here’s why the movie struggles to find its brilliance and shine.
A Story Missing the Boost
The film starts decently, introducing us to Turbo Jose, a village simpleton with a knack for brawls. However, the narrative quickly devolves into a predictable masala mix. We get everything from church festivals to financial scams, romance to revenge, all thrown together haphazardly. Subplots like “Auto Billa and Co” and unnecessary scenes only bloat the screenplay.
The film desperately tries to be a mass entertainer, relying heavily on tired clichés. Predictable jokes fall flat, and the hero, Jose, becomes an invincible fighter wielding everything from a bike chain to a rifle. This lack of originality leaves the audience feeling like they’ve seen it all before.
Mammootty Shines, But the Script Fails Him
The one saving grace is Mammootty himself. At 72, he delivers a powerful performance in the action sequences, showcasing his enduring charisma. However, the one-dimensional character of Mammootty limits his potential. The villain, Vetrivel (played by Raj B Shetty), is equally underdeveloped, lacking the depth to pose a real threat to our hero.
While Raj B Shetty is a talented actor, his role in “Turbo” is a missed opportunity. The music and background score by Christo Xavier are equally forgettable, failing to add any spark to the narrative.
Should the Sequel Turbo-charge its Way Out?
The film concludes by hinting at a sequel featuring a Tamil star. Considering this movie fails to live up to its potential, perhaps these plans should be shelved.
Overall, the movie is a slow ride that fails to deliver on its promises. Clichéd storytelling, underdeveloped characters, and forgettable music leave Mammootty’s star power underutilized. If you’re looking for a fresh, engaging film, this one might leave you feeling like you’ve hit a dead end.