'Pluto' to Stream on Saina Play from August 24
The Malayalam sci-fi comedy 'Pluto' is set to make its digital debut on August 24 on the streaming platform Saina Play. The film, which stars Neeraj Madhav and Althaf Salim, was released in theatres on July 30 and received mixed responses during its theatrical run, according to multiple reports.
'The Economic Times' noted that the film, which blends comedy, emotion, and science fiction, failed to make a major impact at the box office. The story follows Vicky, played by Madhav, whose ordinary life takes an unexpected turn after he encounters a stranded alien. The alien, named Pluto, is depicted not as an invincible or larger-than-life figure, but as an outsider dealing with unfamiliar circumstances. The film explores themes of friendship, loneliness, acceptance, and human connection, according to the report.
Critical Reception and Comparisons
'The Times of India' (ETimes) gave the film a 2-star rating and described it as "an opportunity missed," while acknowledging the film's attempts to blend science fiction with humour and sentiment. The publication's review drew comparisons to other films in the genre, including 'Everything Everywhere All at Once,' 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy,' and 'PK,' and suggested that while the film had potential, it settled for being a "pleasant, occasionally funny entertainer." The review also praised Malayalam cinema for attempting science fiction despite budgetary limitations.
Production and Technical Credits
'Pluto' is produced by Reju Kumar and Resmi Reju under the banner Orchid Films International, with Jayakrishnan RK serving as executive producer. The technical team includes cinematographer Vishnu Sarma, editor Sanath Sivaraj, and music composer Arcado, as highlighted by 'The Economic Times.' The film's premise, which may remind viewers of 'E.T.' and the Hindi film 'Koi Mil Gaya,' brings its own Malayalam flavour to the genre, as per the report.
With its digital release, 'Pluto' aims to reach a fresh audience on streaming, potentially turning its unconventional storyline into a new opportunity for viewership.