Thudarum Movie Review: Mohanlal Shines in Tharun Moorthy’s Emotional Masterpiece
If you’re wondering whether Thudarum is worth your time, let me assure you: this Malayalam drama-thriller, released on April 25, 2025, is a must-watch for fans of heartfelt storytelling and stellar performances. Directed by Tharun Moorthy and starring Mohanlal and Shobana, Thudarum blends family drama, suspense, and revenge with emotional depth, delivering a cinematic experience that resonates long after the credits roll. In this review, we’ll dive into what makes this film a standout, exploring its plot, performances, technical brilliance, and more, while addressing whether it lives up to the hype surrounding Mohanlal’s 360th film.
A Story of Resilience and Redemption
Thudarum (meaning “To Be Continued”) centers on Shanmugham, aka Benz (Mohanlal), a former stuntman turned taxi driver in the serene town of Ranni, Pathanamthitta. His prized possession, a black Mark 1 Ambassador car, is more than just a vehicle—it’s a symbol of his humble life and emotional connection to his past. Living contentedly with his wife Lalitha (Shobana) and their two teenage children, Shanmugham’s world is upended when his car is wrongfully seized by the police over a drug smuggling case he’s not involved in. What begins as a simple quest to reclaim his livelihood spirals into a gripping tale of injustice, betrayal, and revenge, testing his resilience and family bonds.
The narrative, co-written by Tharun Moorthy and K.R. Sunil, unfolds like a slow-burning fuse. The first half introduces Shanmugham’s idyllic family life with light-hearted humor and self-deprecating references to Mohanlal’s past films, evoking nostalgia and laughter. However, the tone shifts dramatically post-interval, plunging into a darker, more intense thriller that keeps you on edge. While some critics note the predictable revenge arc in the second half, the emotional weight and character-driven storytelling elevate it beyond a typical action drama.
Why This Story Works
- Relatable Protagonist: Shanmugham is an everyman, making his struggles universally resonant.
- Emotional Core: The film’s focus on family dynamics and personal loss adds depth to the thriller elements.
- Tonal Balance: The shift from light-hearted drama to intense suspense is executed with finesse, keeping viewers engaged.
Mohanlal and Shobana: A Chemistry That Steals the Show
Mohanlal delivers a tour-de-force performance as Shanmugham, reminding audiences why he’s a legend in Indian cinema. His portrayal captures a spectrum of emotions—from playful charm to heart-wrenching sorrow and fiery determination. Fans on X have hailed this as one of his finest roles since Villain (2017), particularly praising a poignant bathroom scene where he hides his turmoil from his family. Tharun Moorthy gives Mohanlal a canvas to showcase his versatility, blending the actor’s iconic “mass” moments with nuanced, vulnerable acting that harks back to classics like Kireedam and Drishyam.
Shobana, returning alongside Mohanlal after a 15-year gap, is equally captivating as Lalitha. Her refined yet relatable portrayal of a supportive wife and resilient mother adds emotional heft to the film. Their on-screen chemistry, built on decades of shared cinematic history, is a highlight, with scenes of quiet intimacy and shared grief stealing hearts. As one reviewer noted, “Their performances together anchor the emotional core of Thudarum.”
Standout Supporting Cast
- Prakash Varma as CI George: A revelation in his debut acting role, Varma’s chilling portrayal of the antagonist nearly steals the show. His calm, menacing demeanor makes him a worthy foil to Mohanlal.
- Binu Pappu as SI Benny: Pappu transitions seamlessly from comedic to brutal, delivering a career-best performance.
- Farhaan Faasil, Maniyanpilla Raju, and others: The ensemble cast enriches the story, though some characters have limited screen time.
Tharun Moorthy’s Directorial Brilliance
Tharun Moorthy, known for grounded films like Operation Java and Saudi Vellakka, proves his mettle in handling a star-driven project without compromising his storytelling integrity. His ability to balance fan service—through Mohanlal’s mass dialogues and nostalgic references—with a cohesive narrative is commendable. The film’s pacing, while slow in the first half, is deliberate, allowing the world and characters to breathe before the high-stakes second half kicks in.
Moorthy’s attention to detail shines in the script’s subtle nods to Mohanlal’s filmography. Unlike typical superstar vehicles that rely on fan-pleasing tropes, Thudarum uses self-aware humor, poking fun at Mohanlal’s less successful films like Aaraattu and Marakkar. These moments, woven organically into the dialogue, add levity without derailing the plot.
Technical Highlights
- Cinematography by Shaji Kumar: The lush landscapes of Ranni and intimate family moments are captured with stunning clarity, enhancing the film’s emotional and suspenseful tones.
- Music by Jakes Bejoy: The background score is haunting yet restrained, amplifying key moments without overpowering the narrative. However, some critics found the songs forgettable.
- Editing by Nishadh Yusuf and Shafeeque V.B.: The seamless transitions between the film’s tonal shifts keep the pacing tight, though a few scenes feel slightly stretched.
Strengths and Flaws: A Balanced Perspective
What Thudarum Does Right
- Emotional Depth: The film’s exploration of family, loss, and resilience strikes a universal chord.
- Performances: Mohanlal, Shobana, and Prakash Varma deliver career-defining roles.
- Narrative Craft: The gradual build-up and genre shift create a rewarding payoff for patient viewers.
- Cultural Resonance: Nostalgic references and Mohanlal’s “common man” role appeal to both hardcore fans and casual audiences.
Where It Falls Short
- Predictable Revenge Plot: The second half’s action-oriented arc feels formulaic compared to the nuanced first half.
- Pacing Issues: The slow first half may test the patience of viewers expecting a faster thriller.
- Underdeveloped Subplots: Some family dynamics, like the father-son conflict, feel forced or unresolved.
- Excessive Violence: Scenes of police brutality, particularly against women and children, have been criticized as gratuitous.
Box Office and Audience Reception
Thudarum hit theaters with high expectations, fueled by Mohanlal’s star power and the success of his previous film, L2: Empuraan. It grossed ₹16.65 crore worldwide on its opening day, with ₹5.10 crore from Kerala alone, and raked in ₹70 crore over its extended opening weekend, signaling a strong start. Advance bookings in Kerala surpassed ₹2 crore, outpacing Mammootty’s Bazooka, proving Mohanlal’s enduring draw.
Critics have largely praised the film, with ratings ranging from 3/5 to 4/5. The Indian Express called it “one of the finest Indian revenge thrillers,” while The Hindu noted its “emotional depth” despite minor flaws. On X, fans lauded Mohanlal’s performance and the film’s emotional impact, though some felt the second half dragged or lacked the cleverness of Drishyam. IMDb rates it an impressive 8.5/10, reflecting strong audience approval.
Comparison to Drishyam
Many reviews draw parallels to Drishyam due to the family-centric setup and tonal shift, but Thudarum carves its own path. While Drishyam thrives on intricate twists, Thudarum leans on emotional stakes and raw performances. If you loved Drishyam for its family drama, you’ll find Thudarum equally compelling, though it’s less about clever plotting and more about heart.
Is Thudarum Worth Watching?
Absolutely. Thudarum is a triumph of storytelling and performance, offering a refreshing take on the revenge thriller genre. It’s a love letter to Mohanlal’s legacy, showcasing him as both a charismatic star and a phenomenal actor. While it’s not without flaws—namely a predictable climax and occasional pacing hiccups—the film’s emotional resonance, stellar cast, and technical finesse make it a standout. Whether you’re a Mohanlal fan, a lover of Malayalam cinema, or simply seeking a moving story, Thudarum delivers.
Who Should Watch It?
- Fans of Mohanlal and Shobana, eager for their nostalgic chemistry.
- Viewers who enjoy emotional dramas with thriller elements, like Drishyam or Kireedam.
- Audiences who appreciate character-driven stories over high-octane action.
Where to Watch
Thudarum is currently playing in theaters in Malayalam and Telugu. Check platforms like BookMyShow for showtimes in your area. OTT release details are yet to be announced, but it’s expected to stream later in 2025.
Final Thoughts
Thudarum is more than just Mohanlal’s 360th film—it’s a testament to his enduring brilliance and Tharun Moorthy’s skill in crafting meaningful cinema. The title, meaning “To Be Continued,” feels apt, hinting at Mohanlal’s unstoppable legacy and the story’s open-ended emotional impact. As one fan on X put it, “Performer Lalettan is back, owning every frame.” Grab your tickets for a cinematic journey that’s equal parts heartwarming and thrilling.
Have you watched Thudarum? Share your thoughts in the comments below or let us know which Mohanlal film is your all-time favorite.
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