Thudarum Movie Review: A Mohanlal Masterclass in Emotional Depth
Thudarum (2025), a Malayalam-language drama-thriller directed by Tharun Moorthy, was released theatrically on April 25, 2025, with a Telugu dubbed version and Tamil subtitles in select regions. Starring Mohanlal, Shobana, Prakash Varma, Binu Pappu, and an ensemble cast, the film, produced by M. Renjith under Rejaputhra Visual Media, has garnered widespread acclaim for its emotional storytelling and Mohanlal’s return to form. While primarily in Malayalam, its Tamil-dubbed dialogues (via Shobana’s character) and cultural references resonate with Tamil audiences.
My take: it’s a decent comedy-drama, elevated by stellar performances but slightly marred by predictable elements. Here’s an 800-word review for your blog, tailored to the Tamil version’s appeal.
Thudarum (meaning “To Be Continued”) unfolds in the serene hill town of Ranni, Pathanamthitta, where Shanmugham, nicknamed Benz (Mohanlal), lives as a taxi driver. His prized Mark 1 black Ambassador car, a gift from his mentor Master Palani (Bharathiraja), is a family member. Benz, a former stuntman from Chennai’s film industry, shares a warm bond with his Tamil-speaking wife, Lalitha (Shobana), and their two teenage children, Pavi (Thomas Mathew) and a daughter (Amritha Varshini). The first half evokes the charm of a middle-class family, laced with playful banter and self-deprecating humor referencing Mohanlal’s filmography. But Benz’s idyllic life unravels when his car is seized by the police, led by SI Benny (Binu Pappu) and CI George Mathen (Prakash Varma), over a drug smuggling case he’s not involved in. A harrowing night drive through a forest reveals a shocking truth, spiraling into a gripping revenge drama that tests Benz’s resolve to protect his family.
Mohanlal delivers a tour-de-force performance, embodying Benz’s journey from jovial everyman to a man pushed to his limits. His nuanced acting—conveying joy, heartbreak, and rage through subtle expressions—reminds Tamil audiences of his iconic roles in films like Kireedam and Iruvar. Shobana, as Lalitha, is a revelation, her Tamil dialogues adding authenticity and warmth. Their chemistry, seen in emotional scenes, elevates the film, recalling their past collaborations. Prakash Varma, a debutant, is a standout as the antagonist, matching Mohanlal’s intensity with chilling presence. Binu Pappu transforms from a comical cop to a menacing figure, while supporting actors like Farhaan Faasil, Maniyanpilla Raju, and Aarsha Chandini Baiju add depth. The ensemble’s performances make Thudarum a character-driven gem, resonating with Tamil viewers who cherish emotionally rich narratives.
As a decent comedy-drama, Thudarum excels in its emotional core and family dynamics, akin to Tamil films like Karnan or Asuran. The first half, filled with light-hearted moments and pop culture nods (including Rajinikanth and Mammootty references), sets a relatable tone. Jakes Bejoy’s haunting yet soothing score, paired with Shaji Kumar’s lush visuals of Kerala’s rain-soaked hills, creates an immersive experience. The second half’s shift to a tense thriller, with well-staged action and satisfying payback, keeps audiences engaged. Tharun Moorthy, known for grounded storytelling, balances commercial elements with realism, crafting a narrative that celebrates Mohanlal the actor, not just the stars, especially Shobana’s, feel natural, enhancing accessibility for Tamil audiences. At 166 minutes, the pacing is mostly crisp, though the first half lingers slightly.
However, Thudarum has flaws. Critics note its predictable storyline and lack of major twists, aligning with my view of it as a decent comedy-drama rather than a groundbreaking thriller. Comparisons to similar Mohanlal films set lofty expectations, but Thudarum lacks their cleverness. Police brutality scenes, meant to evoke sympathy, are overly graphic, with close-up shots feeling exploitative. Some family drama, like the father-son conflict, feels forced, and early CGI is mediocre, though it doesn’t derail the experience. For Tamil audiences, the heavy Malayalam cultural context (e.g., Ranni’s Christian milieu) may feel distant, while effective, occasionally lacks the original’s emotional punch. Social media reflects mixed sentiments, with some calling it a “regular revenge drama” with a strong final hour, while others praise its emotional depth and the antagonist’s intensity.
Technically, Thudarum impresses. Shaji Kumar’s cinematography captures Kerala’s natural beauty, from misty hills to stormy nights, echoing Tamil films like Madras. Jakes Bejoy’s music, blending nostalgic melodies with intense themes, enhances the mood. Editors Nishadh Yusuf and Shafeeque V.B. ensure a tight narrative, despite minor pacing hiccups. The production design by Gokul Das and costumes by Sameera Saneesh ground the story in its small-town setting. Self-aware touches, like the title card pairing Mohanlal’s name with a lone tusker silhouette, symbolizing Benz’s calm yet fierce nature, add artistic flair.
The film has won hearts, with critics calling it a finely crafted drama and lauding Mohanlal’s top-form performance. Its box office success, nearing ₹70 crore globally in its opening weekend, reflects its appeal. For Tamil audiences, the emotional weight, stellar cast, and accessible dubbing make it compelling, though it doesn’t reinvent the genre. It’s a Mohanlal showcase, proving his enduring brilliance, much like Vijay Sethupathi’s grounded roles in Tamil cinema.
Verdict: Thudarum is a decent comedy-drama that thrives on Mohanlal’s masterful performance and Tharun Moorthy’s heartfelt direction. While predictable and occasionally heavy-handed, its emotional depth and strong performances make it rewarding for Tamil viewers. Catch it for Mohanlal’s vintage charm and Shobana’s grace.
Rating: 3.5/5
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