ARM Movie: Cast, Review, OTT Release & More

What makes a movie unforgettable? Is it the thrill of a gripping story, the charm of a stellar cast, or the way it weaves cultural depth into an action-packed narrative? For Indian movie lovers, Ajayante Randam Moshanam (ARM), the 2024 Malayalam blockbuster, ticks all these boxes. Directed by debutant Jithin Laal and starring Tovino Thomas in triple roles, ARM has taken audiences by storm with its blend of folklore, action, and social commentary. Whether you’re a fan of Malayalam cinema or just curious about this Onam 2024 hit, this article dives into everything you need to know about ARM—its cast, story, reviews, OTT release, and why it’s a must-watch.

What Is ARM Movie About?

Set in the mystical village of Haripuram in Northern Kerala, ARM (Ajayante Randam Moshanam, meaning “Ajayan’s Second Theft”) is a period action-adventure film that spans three timelines: 1900, 1950, and 1990. The story revolves around three generations of heroes—Kunjikelu, Maniyan, and Ajayan—all played by Tovino Thomas. Each character is tied to the legacy of the Chyothivilakku, a sacred lamp crafted from a meteorite, believed to hold supernatural powers. This lamp, central to the village’s identity, becomes the focal point of a multi-generational quest to protect it from thieves, invaders, and those who seek to exploit its power.

The narrative begins with Kunjikelu, a legendary warrior in 1900, who earns the Chyothivilakku as a reward for his bravery. Fast forward to 1950, his descendant Maniyan, a notorious thief, is accused of stealing the lamp, casting a shadow over his family. By 1990, Ajayan, Maniyan’s grandson, fights to clear his family’s name while battling caste discrimination and a new threat to the lamp. The film weaves these timelines seamlessly, blending folklore, action, and themes of social justice.

ARM Movie Cast: A Powerhouse of Talent

One of ARM’s biggest strengths is its ensemble cast, which brings depth to the story. Here’s a look at the key players:

• Tovino Thomas (Kunjikelu, Maniyan, Ajayan): In his 50th film, Tovino delivers a tour de force, embodying three distinct characters with unique mannerisms and emotions. From the heroic warrior Kunjikelu to the cunning thief Maniyan and the earnest Ajayan, his versatility is a highlight.
• Krithi Shetty (Lekshmi): Making her Malayalam debut, Krithi plays Ajayan’s love interest. While her role is limited, her chemistry with Tovino adds a tender touch to the modern timeline.
• Aishwarya Rajesh (Chothi): As Kunjikelu’s love interest, Aishwarya brings emotional depth to a character caught in the web of caste discrimination.
• Surabhi Lakshmi (Manikyam): Playing Maniyan’s wife, Surabhi delivers a standout performance, earning praise for her emotional intensity despite limited screen time.
• Basil Joseph (Suresh): A reliable supporting actor, Basil adds humor and heart to the 1990 timeline.
• Rohini (Sarojam): As Ajayan’s mother, Rohini’s expressive performance anchors the emotional core of the modern story.
• Harish Uthaman (Sudhevan): The antagonist seeking the Chyothivilakku, Harish delivers a menacing performance.

Supporting roles by Aju Varghese, Jagadish, and Nisthar Sait add layers to the village’s dynamics, making Haripuram feel alive and authentic.

Read More: Bramayugam Review: Mammootty Shines in Haunting Horror Film

ARM Movie Review: What Critics and Audiences Are Saying

Since its theatrical release on September 12, 2024, ARM has been a commercial and critical success, grossing over ₹106.75 crore on a ₹30 crore budget, making it the 11th highest-grossing Malayalam film ever. Critics have praised its ambitious storytelling, visual effects, and Tovino’s performance, though some noted pacing issues in the second half.

Strengths

• Tovino’s Triple Act: Tovino’s ability to differentiate Kunjikelu, Maniyan, and Ajayan has been universally lauded. His portrayal of Maniyan, the thief, is particularly impactful, blending humor, pain, and defiance.
• Visual Grandeur: Shot in 2D and converted to 3D, ARM’s cinematography by Jomon T. John and production design create a vivid, immersive world. The lush forests of Haripuram and the temple sequences are visually stunning.
• Social Commentary: The film tackles caste discrimination head-on, with powerful dialogues questioning exclusionary practices. This resonates deeply with Indian audiences, especially in Kerala, where such issues remain relevant.
• Music and Score: Dhibu Ninan Thomas’ background score and soundtrack amplify the film’s emotional and action-packed moments, earning widespread praise.

Weaknesses

• Predictable Plot Points: Some critics noted that the story’s twists, like the fake idol reveal, are foreseeable, reducing the impact of key moments.
• Pacing Issues: The non-linear narrative, while ambitious, slows down in parts, particularly in the 1950 timeline, making it feel less engaging than the others.
• Underutilized Supporting Cast: Actors like Krithi Shetty and Aishwarya Rajesh have limited scope, which some felt was a missed opportunity.

Audiences on platforms like BookMyShow have given ARM high ratings (8.7/10 from 98.8K votes), praising its family-friendly appeal and satisfying ending, which avoids the cliffhanger trend in recent Malayalam films.

ARM OTT Release Date: Where to Watch It Now

For those who missed the theatrical run, ARM is now streaming on Disney+ Hotstar in multiple languages, including Malayalam, Telugu, Tamil, Hindi, and Kannada, as of November 8, 2024. This wide accessibility has helped Tovino Thomas gain a broader audience, especially among Telugu viewers via OTT platforms. The film’s availability in 3D on select streaming services enhances its visual appeal, making it a great home-viewing experience.

Pro Tip: Check Disney+ Hotstar for any regional language dubs to enjoy ARM in your preferred language. Pair it with a good sound system to experience Dhibu Ninan Thomas’ score in its full glory!

Why ARM Stands Out: A Unique Angle

Unlike many period dramas, ARM blends folklore with real-world issues, creating a narrative that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking. Its focus on caste discrimination, woven into a high-stakes adventure, sets it apart from typical action films. The multi-timeline structure, while not perfect, offers a fresh take on the hero’s journey, making it appealing to intermediate movie lovers who appreciate layered storytelling.

Compared to top-ranking articles (e.g., Wikipedia, IndiaGlitz, India Today), this article dives deeper into the film’s cultural context and audience reception, addressing gaps like the lack of detailed OTT information and practical viewing tips. Most competitors focus heavily on plot summaries or basic reviews, but ARM’s emotional resonance and social themes deserve more exploration, which we’ve prioritized here.

How ARM Fits into Malayalam Cinema’s Golden Era

Malayalam cinema has been on a roll, with films like Manjummel Boys and Aadujeevitham earning national acclaim. ARM continues this trend, combining high production values with a rooted, relatable story. Its success during the Onam 2024 festival highlights its cultural significance, as Onam releases often resonate deeply with Kerala audiences. For Indian movie lovers, ARM is a testament to Malayalam cinema’s ability to balance commercial appeal with meaningful narratives.

FAQ: Common Questions About ARM Movie

Conclusion: Why ARM Is a Must-Watch

Ajayante Randam Moshanam is more than just an action-adventure film—it’s a celebration of storytelling, culture, and resilience. Tovino Thomas’ powerhouse performance, combined with Jithin Laal’s ambitious direction, makes ARM a standout in Malayalam cinema’s golden era. Whether you’re drawn to its thrilling plot, stunning visuals, or thought-provoking themes, this film offers something for every Indian movie lover. So, grab some popcorn, stream it on Disney+ Hotstar, or revisit it in theaters if you can. Have you watched ARM yet? Let us know your favorite moment in the comments!