Dileep's performance in "Prince and Family" is being lauded as a return to form, with many noting his comfortable and playful portrayal of Prince Chakkalakkal, a middle-aged bachelor shouldering family responsibilities. Debutant director Binto Stephen is credited with reviving Dileep in a role that resonates with his classic "guy-next-door" persona. However, the film itself is receiving mixed reviews, with some critics pointing to a predictable premise and a disjointed script that struggles to balance family drama with social commentary.
The initial scenes effectively establish the family dynamics, showcasing Prince's frustrations with his less responsible siblings. The humor in the first half evolves naturally from the character interactions, a departure from writer Sharis Mohammed's previous works where comedy felt forced. Veteran actors like Siddique, Bindu Panicker, and Manju Pillai deliver strong performances, adding to the film's comedic strengths.
However, the film takes a turn in the second half when Prince marries Chinju Rani, a social media influencer. The narrative shifts to explore themes of social media culture, sensationalism, and hate-mongering. This transition is seen as abrupt and jarring by some, who feel that the film loses its focus and attempts to tackle too much. Some critics argue that the commentary on social issues lacks nuance and relies on stereotypical portrayals of Gen Z. Raniya Raanaa's performance as Chinju Rani has been described as over-the-top, contributing to the skewed perception of social media influencers.
Dileep's portrayal of a family man burdened by obligations is not new, but he manages to keep the audience engaged. The movie tries to highlight Dileep's flexibility in handling comedy, but in the second half, it gradually switches to a different perspective to talk about the dark side of social media. While Dileep delivers a decent performance, some argue that the script doesn't provide enough depth to his character, failing to fully explore his motivations and reactions to the changing dynamics in his life.
Despite its flaws, "Prince and Family" has its moments. The film's intentions to address relevant social issues are commendable, but the execution falls short. The movie does explore the dark side of social media. The climax also features Urvashi in a cameo role. Overall, "Prince and Family" is a mixed bag, with Dileep's performance being a highlight, but the script struggling to deliver a cohesive and impactful message. While some appreciate it as a fun family entertainer with an emotional core, others find it outdated and preachy, particularly in its portrayal of social media and generational differences.