Thudarum Movie Review: Mohanlal Shines in a Heartfelt Tale of Resilience and Family
Thudarum (transl. To be continued), the 2025 Malayalam-language drama thriller directed by Tharun Moorthy, is a cinematic gem that showcases the brilliance of Mohanlal in a role that feels tailor-made for him. Released on April 25, 2025, this film has already garnered widespread acclaim for its emotional depth, nuanced performances, and gripping storytelling. As someone who has followed Mohanlal’s illustrious career, I can confidently say that Thudarum is one of his finest works in recent years, offering a perfect blend of relatability and intensity that resonates deeply with audiences.
A Relatable Story Anchored by Emotional Depth
Set in the serene hill town of Ranni, Thudarum tells the story of Shanmugam, a humble taxi driver who cherishes his aging Ambassador car as much as his family. Played by Mohanlal, Shanmugam is the quintessential everyman—a middle-aged man navigating the joys and struggles of life with his wife (Shobana), son (Prakash Varma), and daughter (Farhaan). The film’s plot revolves around Shanmugam’s deep attachment to his car, which becomes a symbol of his identity and livelihood. However, when fate throws unexpected challenges his way, he is forced to confront how far he’s willing to go to protect what he holds dear.
Director Tharun Moorthy, known for his realistic storytelling in films like Operation Java and Saudi Vellakka, brings a grounded approach to Thudarum. The screenplay, co-written by Moorthy and K.R. Sunil, strikes a delicate balance between drama and thriller elements, ensuring that the audience is emotionally invested from start to finish. What sets this film apart is its ability to portray the struggles of a common man in a way that feels universal. Whether it’s Shanmugam’s quiet moments of joy with his family or his heartbreak when faced with adversity, the film captures the full spectrum of human emotions with authenticity.
Mohanlal’s Stellar Performance
Mohanlal, often referred to as Lalettan by his fans, delivers a performance that is nothing short of extraordinary. As Shanmugam, he embodies the essence of a man who is both ordinary and heroic in his own way. The character goes through a rollercoaster of emotions—happiness, sorrow, anger, and heartbreak—and Mohanlal portrays each with remarkable finesse. His ability to convey vulnerability and strength simultaneously is what makes this role so captivating. There’s a scene where Shanmugam breaks down after a particularly devastating moment, and Mohanlal’s raw emotion in that sequence is sure to leave audiences teary-eyed.
The film also includes subtle nods to Mohanlal’s earlier works, adding a layer of nostalgia for longtime fans. Moorthy cleverly incorporates pop culture references and self-trolling dialogues that bring a smile to your face while keeping the tone of the film intact. Additionally, the mass dialogues tailored for Mohanlal’s fanbase are delivered with the charisma that only he can pull off, ensuring that there’s something for everyone in Thudarum.
A Strong Supporting Cast and Technical Brilliance
While Mohanlal is undeniably the heart of the film, the supporting cast also deserves applause. Shobana, as Shanmugam’s wife, brings warmth and strength to her role, complementing Mohanlal beautifully. Their chemistry feels lived-in and authentic, reflecting the bond of a couple who has weathered life’s storms together. Prakash Varma and Farhaan, playing the couple’s children, add emotional weight to the family dynamic, with Varma’s performance being particularly noteworthy.
On the technical front, Thudarum excels in every department. The cinematography captures the rustic charm of Ranni, with its lush landscapes and small-town simplicity, creating a perfect backdrop for the story. The music, while understated, enhances the emotional beats of the film without overpowering the narrative. The editing is crisp, ensuring that the film’s runtime feels justified, even as it delves into the intricacies of Shanmugam’s journey.
A Few Minor Hiccups
If there’s one critique, it’s that the thriller elements of the film occasionally feel a bit rushed. While the drama is exceptionally well-executed, the pacing in the second half could have been tighter to maintain the tension. However, this minor flaw does little to detract from the overall impact of the film.
Final Verdict: A Must-Watch for Mohanlal Fans and Beyond
Thudarum is a testament to the power of storytelling that prioritizes emotional depth over flashy gimmicks. Tharun Moorthy has crafted a film that not only highlights Mohanlal’s acting prowess but also delivers a narrative that is both heartwarming and thought-provoking. With a box office opening that smashed records as Mohanlal’s fourth biggest post-COVID debut (beating Aaraattu’s 3.62 crores), it’s clear that audiences are loving this film as much as critics are.
For fans of Malayalam cinema, Thudarum is a must-watch. It’s a film that celebrates the resilience of the human spirit while reminding us of the importance of family and the things we hold dear. As the title suggests, this story feels like it’s “to be continued”—not just in Shanmugam’s journey, but in the legacy of Mohanlal as one of India’s greatest actors.
Rating: 8.5/10
A heartfelt drama that will leave you rooting for Shanmugam and reflecting on your own life’s priorities. Don’t miss it!
A heartfelt drama that will leave you rooting for Shanmugam and reflecting on your own life’s priorities. Don’t miss it!
