December 19, 2024: Aashiq Abu’s Rifle Club delivers an adrenaline-packed cinematic experience, blending sharp action with quirky storytelling to present a compelling survival drama. Set in the early 90s, this Malayalam film takes us deep into the heart of Wayanad’s hunting culture, where the lines between survival, honor, and deceit blur in an electrifying narrative.
Starring an ensemble cast of talented actors, including Vijayaraghavan, Dileesh Pothan, Vani Viswanath, Anurag Kashyap, and rapper Hanumankind, Rifle Club is a feast for both the eyes and the mind. Right from the opening scenes—where wild boars are seen floating down zip lines, accompanied by the haunting echoes of gunshots—Rifle Club establishes itself as an unorthodox, high-stakes drama that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
A World of Guns, Honor, and Hidden Motives
The film revolves around a gun-toting family that operates a secluded rifle club in the rugged Western Ghats. With a strict code of honor and a passion for hunting, these characters create a dark yet fascinating world. Enter Shahjahan (Vineeth Kumar), a film star looking to shed his romantic image and delve into a new, more rugged role inspired by the film Mrigaya. What begins as a journey into the club for training soon turns into a fight for survival when uninvited guests, including a menacing arms dealer (played by Anurag Kashyap), descend on the club.
The story’s structure draws inspiration from the survival genre, but Rifle Club adds its own twist by seamlessly blending stylish action sequences with character-driven drama. The film’s crisp 114-minute runtime ensures that there’s no room for filler; the plot moves swiftly, establishing character relationships and building tension without overstaying its welcome.
Aashiq Abu’s Signature Style Shines Through
One of the standout features of Rifle Club is Aashiq Abu’s direction and cinematography. The film’s visual language is striking, with sharp, vivid frames that bring the remote club and its eccentric characters to life. Aashiq’s cinematic eye, honed over years of filmmaking, is evident in each frame, and his collaboration with cinematographer A. A. Azhari ensures a rich, atmospheric experience. From grainy, VHS-style wedding videos to slick motorcycle chase sequences, every visual element serves the narrative’s tone, keeping viewers engaged.
Rex Vijayan’s music further elevates the atmosphere, with an intense, pulsating soundtrack that mirrors the tension building within the club’s walls. The music complements the action scenes perfectly, whether it’s a quiet moment of reflection or a high-octane face-off between rival factions.
Action, Wit, and Surprising Depth
The action set-pieces are thrilling, with standout moments such as a sharpshooter zooming through the club on a motorcycle and a face-off between Hanumankind’s Bheera and the club’s eccentric family. But what really sets Rifle Club apart is the sharp dialogue and biting wit that runs throughout the film. The banter between Dayanand (Anurag Kashyap) and Avaran (Dileesh Pothen) is both hilarious and tension-filled, adding a layer of unpredictability to the film.
Despite its stylish presentation, Rifle Club occasionally feels a bit hollow, as it relies heavily on its fast-paced plot and action to carry it through. However, the character dynamics and Aashiq Abu’s direction ensure that the film remains engaging, even if some narrative threads feel underdeveloped.
A Nod to Malayalam Cinema’s Rich Heritage
The film’s structure and themes recall earlier Malayalam thrillers like Varathan, where survival is intertwined with deep character study and social commentary. Just like Varathan, Rifle Club explores the contrast between power and vulnerability, with the characters’ lives becoming a reflection of the brutal hunting world they inhabit. This makes for an intriguing commentary on human nature, survival instincts, and the codes we live by.
Final Verdict
Rifle Club is a stylish, action-packed drama that has something for everyone—high-stakes action, dark humor, and a sharp look at the complex lives of its characters. Aashiq Abu has once again proven his skill at creating a gripping cinematic world, and while the film isn’t flawless, it’s a thrilling ride worth experiencing on the big screen.