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Aadu Jeevitham (The Goat Life) is a Malayalam film written and directed by Blessy. Benyamin co-scripted the film s story. This film features Prithviraj Sukumara

Aadu Jeevitham (The Goat Life) Movie Review

Aadu Jeevitham (The Goat Life) Movie Review Malayalam Movie Review
Review for the film " Aadu Jeevitham (The Goat Life)"
Streaming On: Netflix
Runtime: 02 Hour 52 Minutes
Certificate: UA
Released: 28-03-2024
OTT Release: 19-07-2024
Genre: Drama, Social
3.5 / 5.00
3.49 / 5.0

Aadu Jeevitham (The Goat Life) is a Malayalam film written and directed by Blessy. Benyamin co-scripted the film’s story. This film features Prithviraj Sukumaran Prithviraj Sukumaran is one among the bubbly actor >> Read More... (Najib), Jimmy Jean-Louis (Khadiri), K.r. Gokul (Hakim), Tablib (Kafeel), Rik Aby Bio coming soon... >> Read More... (Kafeel Jr.), Amala Paul Amala Paul is the super talented star of South Ind >> Read More... (Sainu), Robin Das Robin Das is an Indian actor. He was born in Balas >> Read More... (Hindiwala), and others. A.R. Rahman has given the music for this film. The producers of this film are Dharmic Mathur Bio coming soon... >> Read More... and S. Prabhakar. Sunil K.S and K.U. Mohanan are the cinematographers of this film. A. Sreekar Prasad is the editor of this movie. 

Plot

The story focuses on Najeeb and his friend, commoners who left Kerala and went to the Middle East to support their families. As they were struggling with the language, a local Arab approached them, and they have mistaken him for their employer. Following a long journey, they are separated, with Najeeb left to work in a remote desert goat herd. After years of enduring the harsh condition, isolation and suffering, he is reunited with Hakim, who introduces him to Ibrahim Khadiri, a Somalian goatherd with knowledge of escape routes. They seize an opportunity during Khafeel's daughter's wedding, fleeing into the desert. However, the escape doesn’t end their peril as they struggle to find sustenance and direction, resulting in Hakim's death and Najeeb's near demise. Eventually, Khadiri also disappears. Alone in the desert, Najeeb eventually reaches civilization with the help of a passing Arab and finds a local Malayali restaurant owned by Kunjikka, who nurses him back to health. However, Najeeb's perilous life continues as he faces imprisonment due to his documentation issues, where he meets the Khafeel, who leaves him as he is not his official sponsor and cannot take him back. Will he return home safely? What hardships he faces during his journey? These questions are answered by the further story.

Star Performances

Prithviraj has done a stellar job with the way he has endured through this character’s relentless suffering. He puts his blood, sweat, and tears in this film, which pays off. His portrayal captures the complexities and vulnerabilities of Najeeb's character Also his character’s resilience in the face of adversity and will to return to his family is made believable because of his performance. Complementing Sukumaran's performance is K. R. Gokul's, which serves as a testament to the talent in the Malayalam film industry, further contributing to the film's impact and resonance. He brings depth and authenticity to his character, adding layers to the narrative and enriching the cinematic experience. His chemistry with Sukumaran is palpable, elevating their scenes together and adding emotional weight to the story. Also, the supporting cast deserves special mention for their exceptional performances.

Analysis

“Aadu Jeevitham” adapts Benyamin’s best-selling novel based on the real-life story of Najeeb Muhammed, who was tricked into slaving away on a livestock farm in the Saudi Arabian desert for over three years. In the layered tale, we see Najeeb leave behind a verdant Kerala in the hope of providing better opportunities for his family. But he and a friend, Hakim, are unwittingly picked up by the wrong Arab sponsor when they land in Saudi Arabia and are taken to separate desert camps to herd goats. The movie also beautifully captures the harsh realities of migrant workers and the inhumane treatment they often face. The brutal scenes of Najeeb's mistreatment and abuse at the hands of his employers were heart-wrenching and left me feeling angry and helpless. It sheds light on an important issue that is often overlooked and brings a refreshing perspective to the narrative. The first half exceptionally juxtaposes life in Kerala and the harsh and cruel realities of the desert, where Najeeb lives a torturous existence with barely any food or water to meet his basic needs. And it would seem that the animals are kinder than the masters. Blessy captures the trauma and emotional halt faced by Najeeb with such finesse that viewers empathize with him. However, the second half falls slightly short, for one, with the story stretching on and the director’s propensity for contrivance, which takes away from the overall gem of a story. Prithiviraj’s dedication is evident from the stunning body transformation; he brings innocence and vulnerability to the role. Also, the rest of the cast put forth their best to support the narrative. The cinematography by Sunil KS and KU Mohanan gives the film the feel of a masterpiece. The desert is stark under their gaze and adds to the emotions of the storytelling. The sandstorm sequence, which comes at a crucial juncture, is well presented. The editing is crisp and up to the point, though there was a little scope for perfection in the second half. AR Rahman, the man himself, has given music for this film and undoubtedly elevated the movie to another level. His music score plays a significant role in conveying the tone and emotions of the film. The BGM combines numerous musical styles (Arabic, Indian, Islamic, etc) and encapsulates the protagonist’s journey. Rahman’s background music makes viewers connect emotionally with this hard-hitting survival drama, right from the Kerala backwaters to the fierce desert sandstorms and the loud winds to the grief and loss Najeeb experiences. 

What’s There?

• Spectacular performances, especially Prithviraj, is the highlight of this film.

• Listening to Rahman’s music is a blissful experience.

• The cinematography complemented with excellent production value makes the film believable.

What’s Not There?

• Sometimes you feel the forced love angle in the screenplay.

• A few unnecessary sequences in the film’s second half.

Verdict

"Aadujeevitham" stays with you long after the climax, sparking introspection and empathy for those whose voices are often unheard. It holds excellent emotional and human values that inspire the audience. It is a cinematic triumph that will leave you spellbound and ask you to question your life choices. It will burn a candle of enlightenment and provoke you to introspect into the essential nature of human and their survival. 


FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS


General


What is the genre of "Aadu Jeevitham (The Goat Life)"?

Drama, Social


Who directed "Aadu Jeevitham (The Goat Life)"?

Blessy


What is the duration of "Aadu Jeevitham (The Goat Life)"?

02 Hour 52 Minutes


When was "Aadu Jeevitham (The Goat Life)" released?

28-03-2024

Cast & Crew


Who plays the lead role in "Aadu Jeevitham (The Goat Life)"?

Rik Aby, Akef Najem, Talib Al Balushi, Kr Gokul, Nasar Karutheni, Robin Das, Baburaj Thiruvalla, Ajesh Babu


Who composed the music for "Aadu Jeevitham (The Goat Life)"?

A. R. Rahman

Storyline


What is the plot of "Aadu Jeevitham (The Goat Life)"?

Plot revolves around Drama, Social, etc.

Ratings & Reviews


What is the critic's rating for "Aadu Jeevitham (The Goat Life)"?

3.5


What are the audience ratings for "Aadu Jeevitham (The Goat Life)"?

3.49

Music


Who sang the songs in "Aadu Jeevitham (The Goat Life)"?

Various artists like Vijay Yesudas, Chinmayi Sripaada, Raja Hasan, Jithin Raj

Additional


Is "Aadu Jeevitham (The Goat Life)" suitable for all ages?

Yes, it's rated UA


Can I watch "Aadu Jeevitham (The Goat Life)" online?

No, it will be available soon on Netflix


Who is the editor of "Aadu Jeevitham (The Goat Life)"?

A Sreekar Prasad


What is the name of the action director who worked on "Aadu Jeevitham (The Goat Life)"?

Prashanth Madhav, Ayoub George Al Nahhas, Ayush Bajoria


What is the name of the costume designer who worked on "Aadu Jeevitham (The Goat Life)"?

Stephy Zaviour


What is the name of the choreographer who worked on the songs in "Aadu Jeevitham (The Goat Life)"?

Brinda

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