'Theetta Rappayi' movie review highlights: A film that tries its best to bank on the Kalabhavan Mani factor

Loosely based on the life of Theeta Rappai, whose name has become synonymous with gluttony in Kerala, the film starring

RLV Ramakrishnan

starts with a homage to late Kalabhavan Mani, who was supposed to play the lead.

Rappayi has insatiable hunger and the first half shows his life in the village, and his relationship with the people. Rappai does errands and participates in local eating contests. He loves Kochuthresia (Sonia), who also likes him but they never do anything other than pass furtive glances at each other.

The director of the film, so far, is heavily influenced by Vinayan style trying to infuse pathos with stretched out emotional scenes. The story-line resembles Mani's older films, but without effect. Ramakrishnan tries hard and is OK in parts, but he cannot hold a candle to his brother. Despite being a cliche role, Mani could have added his trademark spunk to the proceedings. A lot of stock humour and sentimental scenes are there but yields little results.

First half ends with Rappai vocally threatening the villain Saheb (Harish Peradi). KPAC Laitha plays Rappai's step mom. Sai Kumar plays a well wisher who employs him occasionally.