Matinee Reviews

Matinee is a 2012 Malayalam romantic film directed by Aneesh Upasana and starringMaqbool Salmaan and Mythili in the lead roles. The film marks the directorial debut of famed still photographer Aneesh Upasana while Mammootty's nephew Maqbool Salmaan plays his first lead role. The story is about two person's journey to filmdom and how their life changes on one Friday's matinée show.

The film's lead role is played by Maqbool Salmaan who had earlier appeared in a short role in A. K. Saajan's Asuravithu. Maqbool is the nephew of noted actor Mammootty. He is the son of Ibrahimkutty, the younger brother of Mammootty who had been a popular star in the miniscreen. The film is produced by AOPL Entertainment which also launched Mammootty's son Dulquer Salmaan earlier the year through Second Show.

MATINEE

Matinee released on 13 December to positive reviews from critics and audiences. The film was appreciated for its realistic approach and the performances by lead actors.

 The film opened to mostly positive reviews from critics. Paresh C. Palicha of Rediff.com rated the film and said that the film "tackles a dark subject with much conviction." He concluded the review saying, "Matinee shows that there are many interesting avenues to explore if you want to tell the story of the film industry other than lampooning the superstars, Sreenivasan style." Dalton L. ofDeccan Chronicle rated the film while appreciating the performances by the lead, editing, cinematography and music. The critic stated: "One occasionally stumbles upon a rotten canvas with strokes of a genius or a great canvas tarnished by splashes of awkwardness. Matinee is neither of the extremes; it simply appears to have been created either by two different painters or one with opposing moods / sensibilities." Keralafilms.tk gave a positive review rating it and added that "the film is able to display a rather serious plot with ease," while praising the performances from Maqbool Salmaan and Mythili.

Rating the film , Veeyen of Nowrunning.com said, "Matinee is a dark parable that splendidly traces the ever changing contours of human lives. It reaffirms that the human power of endurance is immense and that as individuals we wobble along alleys of hope, fear, distress, anger and regret before turning around and walking down the hope street all over again." IBN Live rated the film and said that the film "stands out for its realistic approach."Theaterbalcony.com gave 70% and said "The film was honestly made and acted. Even after having a slow second half , Matinee will be a watchable flick."  Malayalam's Cinema review point out "Matinee" has got that intensity to generate curiosity among the viewers and script provide the potential background.