Directed by: Ajith Mampally
Cast: Antony Varghese Pepe, Raj B Shetty, Shabeer Kallarakkal
Rating: 3/5 Stars

Kondal (Raincloud) offers a familiar revenge-driven narrative set against the backdrop of the coastal village of Anchuthengu. Directed by debutant Ajith Mampally, this film attempts to explore themes of vengeance and justice through the lens of a character grappling with personal turmoil and external conflict.

Antony Varghese Pepe stars as Manuel, a man whose reckless lifestyle and deep-seated anger drive him into a violent confrontation with a local company, Stephen and Sons, that has sullied the reputation of the village’s fishermen. The film introduces Manuel as an “Action Hero,” a moniker that holds true as he excels in intense action sequences. Despite some evident difficulties with accents and occasional acting limitations, Antony’s commanding presence and swagger manage to infuse the film with a sense of energy and engagement, preventing it from falling into complete monotony.

Raj B Shetty delivers a notable performance in his limited scenes, though the decision to dub his voice with an incongruous artist detracts from his impact. Shabeer Kallarakkal’s portrayal of Jude is hampered by the character’s weak writing, while Rahul Rajagopal’s performance as Michael leans towards the cartoonish, marred by a single, exaggerated expression.

Cinematographer Deepak D Menon’s work is one of the film’s strengths, capturing the coastal setting with a striking visual appeal. However, the VFX quality is inconsistent, undermining some of the film’s more ambitious scenes. Sam CS’s background score stands out as a highlight, enhancing the film’s atmosphere with its compelling and memorable tracks. The action choreography by Vikram Mor, Kalai Kingson, and Thavasi Raj effectively showcases Antony’s skills, though it does not quite elevate the film to exceptional heights.

In conclusion, while Kondal is not without its flaws, particularly in terms of writing and character development, it is somewhat redeemed by its strong performances, especially by Antony Varghese Pepe. The film’s action sequences and soundtrack contribute positively to the overall experience. Kondal succeeds in delivering an engaging narrative in parts, but its inconsistencies prevent it from achieving a higher status. Thus, it earns a respectable 3 stars out of 5.