Thudarum(2025)

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Movie Review: Thudarum (2025) – A Riveting Portrait of Loss, Justice, and Mohanlal’s Brilliance

Thudarum, directed by Tarun Moorthy, is a stirring Malayalam drama that delves into the quiet life of a man caught in the whirlwind of loss, injustice, and vengeance. It brings together stellar storytelling, exceptional technical finesse, and a career-defining performance by Mohanlal, reaffirming why he remains one of Indian cinema’s finest.

Plot Summary

Set in Ranni, Kerala, Thudarum follows the life of Shanmugham, a humble Ambassador taxi driver affectionately known in his village as “Benz.” A car enthusiast and a devoted father, Shanmugham’s simple life takes a dark turn when he is wrongly implicated in an honor killing case. As the story unfolds, he learns that the murder victim is his own estranged son—a revelation that devastates him and propels the film into emotionally intense territory.

The first half of the film is light-hearted and family-oriented, filled with simple joys and a sense of rootedness. But the moment the tragedy strikes, the tone shifts dramatically. The transformation in narrative is handled masterfully, delivering scenes that are both haunting and unforgettable.

Mohanlal’s Performance

In a role that demands emotional depth and nuanced restraint, Mohanlal delivers an acting clinic. Whether it’s the stillness of a broken father in a bathroom mirror or the raw fury in a massy police station confrontation, his expressions speak louder than words. Shanmugham echoes shades of his iconic roles—Sethumadhavan from Kireedam, Georgekutty from Drishyam, and Sivan Kutty from Bhramaram—yet stands apart as a distinct character shaped by vulnerability and moral strength.

A special mention must go to a sequence toward the climax where a single tear, a glance, and a silenced rage leave a lasting impression. Few actors could embody such layered emotions with such authenticity.

Prakash Varma as George Matthan – A Surprising Revelation

One of the biggest surprises of Thudarum is the outstanding performance by Prakash Varma, best known as the mind behind iconic ad campaigns like Vodafone ZooZoos and Cadbury. Stepping into the role of the villainous George Matthan, a corrupt and cold-blooded police officer, Varma completely transforms from the polished ad filmmaker into a terrifying force onscreen.

His portrayal is chilling not through theatricality, but through icy restraint and subtle menace. Every word he utters is calculated, every action methodical—making the audience hate him not for what he does, but for how he does it. His unsettling calm, especially in scenes where he manipulates or frames Shanmugham, makes George Matthan one of the most convincingly written and performed antagonists in recent Malayalam cinema.

Varma’s presence is not overpowering but deeply effective, elevating every scene he is in. It’s a performance that lingers well after the credits roll—a triumph for a debutant in a feature-length film.

Shobana and Supporting Cast

Shobana, with her refined screen presence and Tamil-accented Malayalam, brings grace and emotional strength to her role. Her performance—especially during the climactic confrontation—is both touching and powerful. The film also ensures female characters are not mere sidelines but active participants in the emotional journey.

Binu Pappu delivers a grounded performance, while the loyal dog and the Ambassador car are not just props but emotional extensions of the protagonist’s journey.

Technical Excellence

• Cinematography: The visuals by Gautham Sankar are immersive and poetic. The way the forests are captured creates both beauty and tension, reflecting the emotional turbulence of the story.
• Background Score: Gopi Sundar’s music is a narrative companion. The score swells and recedes with emotional beats, especially enhancing the pivotal moments without overpowering them.
• Editing: Nishad Yusuf’s tight editing ensures a smooth yet intense flow. The build-up to the interval and the execution of action sequences are particularly crisp and satisfying.

Dialogues and Symbolism

The film’s dialogues resonate deeply—most notably the crowd-pleasing “Komban kaadukayari”, delivered by Mohanlal with fierce resolve. The Ambassador car and the dog serve as silent symbols of identity, loyalty, and unbroken spirit.

Themes of wrongful accusation, fatherhood, justice, and systemic corruption are explored with nuance and sensitivity, leaving viewers both emotionally moved and intellectually provoked.

Final Word: A Cinematic Gem

Thudarum is not just a film—it’s a powerful experience. It blends the emotional depth of Mohanlal’s finest roles with the raw storytelling of Malayalam cinema’s golden era. Director Tarun Moorthy crafts a layered narrative that is both intimate and impactful.

The surprise performance by Prakash Varma is worth every mention. His portrayal of George Matthan is likely to be discussed in acting circles for years to come.

The words “To be continued” at the end left the audience hopeful and excited. Whether it’s a sequel or another tale of redemption and justice, we can only hope this cinematic team reunites soon.

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Rating: 4.5/5

Thudarum is a must-watch for lovers of powerful drama, meaningful cinema, and brilliant performances. If you admire Mohanlal’s artistry, this film is unmissable. And if you didn’t know the name Prakash Varma before, you certainly will now.

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