Aabhaasam is a Malayalam language drama film released in 2018. The movie was directed by Jubith Namradath, who also co-wrote the script with Sunil Yadav. The film features a talented ensemble cast led by Suraj Venjaramoodu, Rima Kallingal, Sheethal Shyam, Indrans, and Alencier Ley Lopez.
The movie follows the journey of a group of strangers traveling on an overnight bus from Bangalore to Kerala. The travelers seem to come from various backgrounds, representing different sections of society, including a politician, a feminist, a sex worker, an aspiring actor, a disabled man, and a religious Muslim woman.
As the bus makes its way through the night, the travelers begin to open up about their personal experiences and opinions on different social issues, such as religion, gender, caste, and politics. Their discussions often turn heated, challenging the entrenched beliefs of each other.
Through their conversations, the film explores the schizophrenic nature of the Indian society, which is often at odds with its own principles and values. The director also highlights how patriarchy has influenced societal views and expectations, particularly towards women.
Aabhaasam uses the bus as a metaphor for the larger social structure and the travelers as victims who are trapped within it. The movie attempts to expose the flaws of the system and the need for change, pushing the viewers to reflect on their own beliefs and prejudices.
Overall, Aabhaasam is a thought-provoking film that delves into complex social dynamics in an engaging and nuanced way. With its strong performances and insightful writing, it stands as one of the best Malayalam movies of recent times.
