Thudarum (2025): Mohanlal Shines in a Gripping, Emotional Revenge Thriller
Released on April 25, 2025, Thudarum is a Malayalam-language crime thriller that has taken the box office by storm, grossing over ₹100 crore globally within its first week and becoming one of the highest-grossing Malayalam films of the year. Directed by Tharun Moorthy, known for Operation Java and Saudi Vellakka, and produced by M. Renjith under Rejaputhra Visual Media, the film stars Mohanlal as Shanmugham, aka Benz, alongside Shobana, Prakash Varma, Binu Pappu, and a robust supporting cast. This 800-word review explores why Thudarum is a must-watch, blending heartfelt family drama with intense suspense, though not without minor flaws, making it a standout in 2025’s cinematic landscape.
A Tale of a Common Man’s Fight
Set in the serene hill town of Ranni, Pathanamthitta, Thudarum (meaning “To Be Continued”) follows Shanmugham, affectionately called Benz, a former stuntman turned taxi driver who cherishes his black Ambassador Mark 1 as if it were family. Living a simple life with his wife Lalitha (Shobana), son Pavi (Thomas Mathew), and daughter, Benz finds joy in routine moments—family banter, temple festivals, and his beloved car. However, his tranquil world unravels when his Ambassador is seized by the police after a mechanic’s assistant uses it for drug smuggling during Benz’s trip to Chennai. SI Benny (Binu Pappu), an ego-driven officer, and CI George Mathen (Prakash Varma) exploit the situation, entangling Benz in a web of corruption and power games. What begins as a quest to reclaim his car spirals into a gripping revenge drama, testing Benz’s resilience and moral core.
The screenplay, co-written by Tharun Moorthy and K.R. Sunil, starts with a light-hearted first half, evoking Drishyam’s family-centric charm with self-deprecating humor and Mohanlal film references that delight fans. The second half shifts gears into a darker, suspenseful narrative, delivering emotional depth and action without relying on over-the-top twists. Critics praise its “mature, slow-burn” approach, though some note its predictability compared to Drishyam’s cleverness.
Mohanlal and Shobana: A Nostalgic Powerhouse
Mohanlal delivers a “spellbinding” performance as Benz, embodying the quiet dignity of a common man with subtle expressions and raw emotion. His shift from playful patriarch to a man pushed to his limits is a masterclass, reminding audiences why he’s a titan of Indian cinema. Critics hail this as his finest role since Drishyam, with moments like his confrontations with the police showcasing his “myriad shades” from vulnerable to fierce. Shobana, as Lalitha, complements him with elegance, her limited screen time in the second half still leaving a mark with poignant scenes that anchor the family’s emotional core. Their chemistry, rooted in their iconic collaborations like Nadodikkattu and Manichitrathazhu, adds nostalgic warmth.
Prakash Varma, in his debut as CI George, is a revelation, stealing scenes with a “chilling, reptilian calmness” that makes him a formidable antagonist. Binu Pappu’s SI Benny transitions from comic to cruel, delivering one of his career-best performances. The supporting cast, including Farhaan Faasil and Maniyanpilla Raju, enriches the narrative, though some characters feel underutilized.
A Slow-Burn with Cinematic Flair
Tharun Moorthy’s direction is a highlight, balancing fan service with a grounded story. The first half’s leisurely pace, filled with family drama and witty nods to Mohanlal’s filmography, sets up Benz’s world, though some critics find it “sluggish.” The second half ramps up the tension, with a forest showdown and action sequences that feel organic to Benz’s stuntman past. Shaji Kumar’s cinematography captures Kerala’s lush landscapes and intimate family moments with “flatly-lit frames” that avoid melodrama, while Jakes Bejoy’s background score elevates the suspense, earning praise as one of his best works. However, the songs are forgettable, and minor CGI issues in the opening scenes slightly mar the experience.
The film’s emotional depth, exploring themes of family, loss, and resilience, resonates deeply, though some family dynamics, like the father-son conflict, feel forced. Its refusal to over-explain respects audience intelligence, making the emotional payoff rewarding, especially in the climax, where the title card “Mohanlal Thudarum” ignites cheers.
Flaws and Comparisons
Thudarum isn’t flawless. The first act’s slow pacing tests patience, and the narrative lacks the sharp twists of Drishyam, leading some to call it a “Drishyam-lite” with a formulaic revenge arc. Critics also note occasional tonal inconsistencies and predictable outcomes, with some emotional beats failing to land. A few reviews criticize its U/A-rated content, citing violent scenes and dialogues unsuitable for younger audiences. Compared to Moorthy’s earlier works, it leans more commercial, which may disappoint fans expecting Saudi Vellakka’s nuance.
Box Office and Reception
With a 4/5 rating from The Indian Express and an 8.2/10 on IMDb, Thudarum has garnered widespread acclaim for its performances and direction, though ratings range from 2.5/5 to 4/5 due to pacing issues. Its box office success—₹16.65 crore on day one and ₹120 crore in its first week—reflects its appeal, surpassing Leo’s Kerala record and rivaling Mohanlal’s L2: Empuraan. Social media buzz, especially on X, praises its “thrill, suspense, and emotions,” with fans celebrating Mohanlal’s return to form.
Should You Watch It?
Thudarum is a heartfelt, thrilling ride that showcases Mohanlal at his peak, supported by Shobana and a stellar Prakash Varma. Its blend of family drama, suspense, and restrained action makes it a compelling watch for Mohanlal fans and lovers of mature Malayalam cinema. While it doesn’t match Drishyam’s ingenuity, its emotional depth and strong second half make it a standout. Catch it in theaters for its visuals and score, and stay for the “Mohanlal Thudarum” moment that promises more to come.
Rating: 4/5
Word count: 800
