Moon Walk Movie - Review - Malayalam

 

Moonwalk (2025) Malayalam Movie Review: A Nostalgic Dance of Friendship and Dreams

Released on December 20, 2024, Moonwalk is a Malayalam comedy-drama that has been making waves in 2025, thanks to its recent theatrical run facilitated by producers Lijo Jose Pellissery and Listin Stephen. Directed by debutant Vinod A.K., the film stars Anunath, Rishi Kainikkara, Siddharth B., Sujith Prabhakar, and Arjun Manilal, and is set in the vibrant 1980s, capturing a group of friends inspired by Michael Jackson’s iconic dance moves and style. With a runtime of 2 hours, Moonwalk blends nostalgia, humor, and heart, though it stumbles in its execution at times. As of June 1, 2025, the film has garnered a modest but dedicated following, with a 6.9/10 rating on IMDb.

Plot and Themes

Moonwalk transports us to a small town in Kerala during the 1980s, a time when Michael Jackson’s music and dance were sweeping the globe. The story follows a group of young friends—led by Anunath’s character, Vinu—who become obsessed with Jackson’s moonwalk and style after watching his performances on a grainy VHS tape. Determined to emulate their idol, the friends form a dance troupe, dreaming of fame and recognition. Their journey, however, is fraught with challenges: societal disapproval, financial struggles, and personal conflicts test their bond. The narrative weaves in themes of friendship, ambition, and the clash between tradition and modernity, set against the backdrop of a simpler, pre-digital era.

The film’s strength lies in its nostalgic portrayal of the ‘80s—cassette players, bell-bottom pants, and the communal excitement of watching a new pop culture phenomenon. It also subtly addresses class divides and the pressure to conform in a conservative society, as the friends’ passion for dance is met with skepticism by their families and community. However, the plot occasionally feels predictable, leaning on familiar coming-of-age tropes without adding enough depth to stand out.

Performances

The ensemble cast delivers earnest performances that capture the innocence and camaraderie of youth. Anunath, as Vinu, is the emotional anchor of the group, balancing determination with vulnerability. His wide-eyed enthusiasm for Michael Jackson is infectious, and he shines in scenes where he rallies his friends to chase their dreams. Rishi Kainikkara, playing the group’s comic relief, brings a natural charm, his one-liners landing well amidst the group’s antics. Siddharth B. and Sujith Prabhakar add depth as friends grappling with their own insecurities, while Arjun Manilal’s portrayal of a more serious, conflicted character provides a counterbalance to the group’s exuberance.

The chemistry among the leads is a highlight, making their friendship feel authentic and lived-in. Supporting actors, including veterans in smaller roles as parents and townsfolk, add warmth and humor, grounding the story in a relatable cultural context. However, the lack of a strong female presence in the narrative feels like a missed opportunity, with the few female characters relegated to stereotypical roles as mothers or love interests.

Direction and Technical Aspects

Vinod A.K.’s direction is a mixed bag. As a debutant, he shows promise in capturing the essence of the ‘80s with authenticity—production design by Ashok Narayanan meticulously recreates the era, from retro hairstyles to the warm glow of tube lights. Cinematographer Suresh Rajan enhances the nostalgic vibe, using a soft, golden palette that evokes the feel of old photographs. The dance sequences, choreographed with a nod to Michael Jackson’s iconic moves, are a highlight, blending humor and heart as the friends fumble their way through rehearsals.

The soundtrack, featuring original songs by Sushin Shyam and reimagined versions of Michael Jackson’s hits, is a major draw. Tracks like “Billie Jean” and “Beat It” are woven into the narrative seamlessly, amplifying the film’s energy. However, the background score occasionally feels overdone, overpowering emotional scenes that would have benefited from subtlety. Editing by Shafique Mohamed is uneven—the first half breezes by with a playful tone, but the second half drags as the film struggles to balance its comedic and dramatic elements.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Moonwalk shines in its nostalgic charm and heartfelt portrayal of friendship. The ‘80s setting is a character in itself, immersing viewers in a time when dreams were simpler yet harder to achieve. The dance sequences, particularly a climactic performance at a local festival, are joyous, capturing the friends’ passion and resilience. The film’s humor lands well, with moments of slapstick and witty banter that evoke laughter, especially in scenes where the group tries to secretly practice their moves.

However, the film falters in its narrative depth. The conflict—whether it’s familial pressure or internal group tensions—feels surface-level, resolved too neatly to leave a lasting impact. The screenplay, while charming, lacks the emotional heft needed to elevate the story beyond a feel-good drama. The second half introduces a predictable rivalry subplot that feels forced, diluting the focus on the friends’ journey. Additionally, the film’s pacing suffers as it tries to cram in too many elements, leaving some character arcs underdeveloped.

Reception and Cultural Impact

As of June 1, 2025, Moonwalk has found a niche audience, particularly among Malayalam cinema fans who appreciate its nostalgic appeal. Its release was delayed from an initial plan in 2021 due to production issues and rejections by OTT platforms, as noted in the web results. The eventual theatrical run, backed by Lijo Jose Pellissery and Listin Stephen, gave it a new lease on life, though it hasn’t set the box office on fire. Estimates suggest a modest ₹10 crore gross in Kerala, buoyed by word-of-mouth among family audiences.

Critics have given it a 3/5, praising its heart and humor but noting its lack of depth. Viewers have shared nostalgic reactions, with some calling it a “feel-good trip down memory lane,” while others felt it didn’t live up to its potential. In the context of 2025 MalayalamFinal Thoughts Moonwalk is a nostalgic, feel-good drama that captures the magic of friendship and the ‘80s with heart and humor. While it stumbles in its narrative depth and pacing, its earnest performances and nostalgic charm make it a worthwhile watch for those seeking a lighthearted escape. Vinod A.K. shows promise as a debutant, and I’m curious to see how he evolves as a filmmaker.

Rating: 3.25/5
A charming but uneven tribute to friendship and the ‘80s, Moonwalk dances its way into your heart but doesn’t quite stick the landing.