Detective Ujjwalan Movie Review: A Quirky Thriller That Shines but Stumbles
Detective Ujjwalan (2025), directed by debutants Indraneel Gopeekrishnan and Rahul G, is a Malayalam crime-comedy thriller that marks the second entry in the Weekend Cinematic Universe (WCU) following Minnal Murali. Starring Dhyan Sreenivasan as the titular detective, alongside Siju Wilson, Rony David Raj, Kottayam Nazeer, and a vibrant ensemble, the film blends humor, suspense, and nostalgia in the fictional village of Plaachikkaavu. Released on May 23, 2025, it has sparked polarized reactions—praised for its engaging first half and Dhyan’s comeback performance but critiqued for a predictable plot and undercooked antagonist.
Plot and Setting
Set in the 1990s in the quaint, seemingly crime-free village of Plaachikkaavu, Detective Ujjwalan follows Ujjwalan (Dhyan Sreenivasan), a bumbling yet enthusiastic amateur sleuth who runs a library filled with detective novels. Known for solving petty cases like missing goats or stolen jewelry, Ujjwalan dreams of cracking a big case. His chance arrives when a mysterious figure, dubbed the “Boogeyman,” begins a series of chilling murders targeting lone villagers at night. As fear grips Plaachikkaavu, a special investigation team led by the sharp Inspector Shambu Mahadev (Siju Wilson) arrives, sidelining Ujjwalan. Undeterred, Ujjwalan launches a parallel probe, relying on his wit and observation skills despite his fear of the dark. The narrative unfolds as a cat-and-mouse game, questioning whether Ujjwalan can unmask the Boogeyman and save the village.
The film draws loosely from the Kokkachi myth (a Kerala equivalent of the Boogeyman) but uses it more as a thematic device than a supernatural element. Its connection to the WCU is subtle, with only a fleeting reference to Minnal Murali’s Manchadikkadu, possibly due to legal restrictions noted in reviews. The story blends humor, mystery, and light social commentary, aiming for a Scooby-Doo-esque vibe but with a darker edge.
Performances: Dhyan’s Redemption
Dhyan Sreenivasan anchors the film with a committed performance, marking a significant comeback after mixed outings in films like Malayalee From India. His Ujjwalan is a nervous yet determined detective, balancing self-deprecating humor with moments of surprising grit. Have lauded his “pitch-perfect” comedic timing and ability to carry the film, with one user calling it “Dhyan 2.0.” Critics agree, with OTTplay noting that Dhyan’s portrayal suits the quirky, flawed hero who relies on intellect rather than brawn. However, some, like The Indian Express, argue he feels miscast, adding little depth to Ujjwalan beyond charm.
Siju Wilson shines as Shambu Mahadev, delivering punchy dialogues and a well-choreographed action scene that contrasts Ujjwalan’s bumbling energy. Rony David Raj, as Sub Inspector Sachin, provides early comic relief, while Kottayam Nazeer and Nihaal Nizam add humor and camaraderie. Social media stars Ameen, Nihal Nizam, Nibraz, and Shahubas, however, are underutilized, appearing as background players despite their online popularity. Seema G. Nair also leaves an impression in a supporting role. The ensemble is lively, but critics note that characters like Ujjwalan’s childhood friend Das lack closure, leaving narrative loose ends.
Technical Craftsmanship
Detective Ujjwalan excels technically. Cinematographers Prem Akkattu and Sraiyanti, debuting in Malayalam after Gargi, create a vibrant yet sinister Plaachikkaavu, with night sequences amplifying the Boogeyman’s menace. The warm tones and retro setting evoke nostalgia, reminiscent of Basil Joseph’s Kunjiramayanam, though some argue it lacks that film’s quirky charm. Rzee’s background score is gripping, maintaining rhythmic tension, though the songs are forgettable. Chaman Chacko’s editing keeps the two-hour runtime crisp, but some reviewers felt it needed more emotional weight. Sound design by Sachin Sudhakaran and Aravind Menon, optimized for Atmos, enhances the suspense, particularly in jump-scare moments.
Strengths and Weaknesses
The film’s first half is a highlight, blending humor and village satire with a thrilling setup. Praise its “well-crafted” narrative and “neat thriller” vibe, with the suspense keeping viewers guessing. Dhyan’s comedic interplay with the cast and the vibrant setting make it engaging. The directors’ ability to balance humor and suspense in their debut is commendable, with Mathrubhumi noting their departure from conventional thriller formulas. The end-credits tease for a sequel has fans excited, hinting at WCU’s expansion.
However, the second half falters. The Boogeyman’s backstory, laden with trauma and twists, feels generic and predictable, lacking the emotional depth of Minnal Murali’s antagonist. Critics like The Times of India (2.5/5) argue the film misses detective story essentials—red herrings, brilliant logic, and a shocking reveal—making the climax underwhelming. Cinema Express echoes this, calling it a “modest whodunit that misses the killer punch” due to overfamiliar clues and misdirections. The Indian Express compares it unfavorably to Scooby-Doo, citing its confusion between quirky comedy and serious thriller.
Reception and Impact
Detective Ujjwalan has divided audiences. BookMyShow ratings hover around 8/10, with fans praising its suspense and Dhyan’s performance, some comparing it to Oppenheimer for its ambition. a “gripping masterpiece” and a “worthy successor to Minnal Murali,” with the climax earning “goosebumps.” However, critics are harsher, with Lensmen Reviews labeling it a “middling addition” to the WCU, citing predictable twists. Its release alongside Narivetta didn’t overshadow its buzz, as audiences flocked to first-day shows. The film’s family-friendly appeal is noted, though jump scares and mild graphic content suggest caution for younger viewers.
Final Verdict
Detective Ujjwalan is a promising yet flawed addition to Malayalam cinema’s investigative thriller genre. Dhyan Sreenivasan’s spirited performance and the directors’ knack for humor and atmosphere make it an enjoyable watch, but a generic antagonist and predictable plot hold it back. It’s best suited for fans of lighthearted mysteries who enjoy Dhyan’s charm and the WCU’s potential. While it doesn’t match Minnal Murali’s brilliance, it sets a foundation for future installments. Catch it in theaters for its visuals and score, but temper expectations for a groundbreaking whodunit.
Rating: 6.5/10
Detective Ujjwalan is a fun, flawed ride—perfect for a weekend watch but missing the spark to be a classic. Dhyan shines, but the Boogeyman needed more bite.
Detective Ujjwalan is a fun, flawed ride—perfect for a weekend watch but missing the spark to be a classic. Dhyan shines, but the Boogeyman needed more bite.