Mammootty's latest Malayalam action-thriller, Bazooka, directed by debutant Deeno Dennis, has arrived today, and early reviews are both a mix of praise and criticism.

Going by the reviews online, Bazooka is another of those slickly styled thrillers, and it revolves around Antony John, a reclusive businessman with a shadowy past as an ethical hacker, played by Mammootty. The story follows his alliance with Kochi City IPS officer Benjamin Joshua (played by Gautham Vasudev Menon) as they team up to track down a ruthless serial killer.

The film blends elements of suspense, action, and digital deception, with a narrative that focuses on style more than substance. While the first half has been lauded for its gripping pace and intriguing setup, some viewers found the second half slightly predictable.

Mammootty's portrayal of Antony John has been widely praised, with fans and critics alike hailing his ability to command the screen with his charisma and intensity. Gautham Vasudev Menon, in a cop role, brings that trademark sensibility that was seen in the movies he had helmed before. 

Deeno Dennis, in his directorial debut, has been commended for capturing Mammootty's aura and delivering a stylish, mass-appeal entertainer. But some have also pointed out that he should have focused on storytelling.

Saeed Abbas' music and the pulsating background score, even if loud at places,  elevates the film's action sequences and emotional moments. Nimish Ravi and Roby Varghese Raj's visuals have been described as sleek and impactful, adding to the film's high-tech aesthetic.

Nishadh Yusuf and Praveen Prabhakar's editing has kept the narrative engaging, though some critics feel the second half could have been tighter.

Social media is abuzz with fans celebrating Bazooka through the cliched 'mass meets class' entertainer. Many have praised the film's ability to balance stylish action with emotional depth. While the film has been praised for its entertainment value and Mammootty's performance, some have noted that the story relies on familiar tropes and could have explored its themes more deeply.

It seems a pleaser, especially for Mammootty's fans, who have embraced the film as a celebration of his star power. But it may not break new ground in terms of storytelling.