Joji (film)

Joji is a 2021 Indian Malayalam-language crime drama film directed by Dileesh Pothan and written by Syam Pushkaran. The film is inspired by William Shakespeare's play Macbeth, and reimagines the classic tale within a contemporary setting in Kerala, India.

The plot revolves around Joji, played by Fahadh Faasil, an engineering dropout and the youngest son of a wealthy planter family. He is largely considered a loser and an embarrassment by his father and older brothers. After an incident leaves his father incapacitated, Joji, driven by greed and a deep-seated sense of inadequacy, plots to take control of the family's wealth and power. His actions lead to a series of increasingly dark and violent events, mirroring the themes of ambition, guilt, and the corrupting influence of power present in Macbeth.

The film is noted for its realistic portrayal of rural Kerala life, its nuanced performances (particularly by Fahadh Faasil), and its exploration of complex family dynamics. It eschews the grandeur and theatricality often associated with Shakespearean adaptations, instead opting for a minimalist and naturalistic approach. Joji was released directly on Amazon Prime Video on April 7, 2021, and received widespread critical acclaim for its direction, writing, acting, and technical aspects. It is considered a significant entry in Malayalam cinema and a noteworthy adaptation of Macbeth.