Manoj

Manoj’s filmography is a bit of a wild ride, honestly. Let’s start with *Ivide* (2015), which throws you into the thick of a murder investigation in Atlanta—yep, Atlanta, not some random small town. An Indian cop, played by Prithviraj, gets dropped into this unfamiliar American city, and the whole thing spirals into a gritty whodunit. Manoj’s work behind the scenes really shines here, giving the movie an almost noir-ish vibe, with characters who never really let you feel comfortable. There’s this persistent tension, like everyone’s hiding something. It’s more than just a crime flick; it pokes around at identity, loneliness, and how home can feel a million miles away, even when you’re surrounded by people. Jump to 2012 for *Grandmaster*—now that one’s a straight-up game of cat and mouse. Mohanlal’s the lead, playing a chess-obsessed cop dealing with a serial killer who loves taunting him with cryptic messages. The suspense is no joke. The whole film kinda plays out like a chess match itself, with every move feeling calculated and risky. Manoj’s touch in the cinematography and mood is what keeps you glued. There’s something cold and sharp about it, like the city itself is part of the puzzle. And then there’s *Action Hero Biju* (2016), which, wow, is just a total shift in vibe. This one throws out the usual high-octane cop drama for a slice-of-life look at a police officer’s daily grind in Kerala. Nivin Pauly is the heart of the movie, but Manoj’s work gives it this lived-in, real-world energy. It’s funny, messy, and kinda sweet, showing the little victories and headaches cops deal with. None of that glossy hero stuff—just real people trying to make it through the day, with all the weirdness that comes with it.