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January 2025 Releases : A Discourse

N.B - Thudarum might be slated for a release after “Empuraan”, which hits theatres on March 27, 2025.

A promising month with 4 movies to look forward to. Bring it on!

Release 1 - Rekhachithram

Director - Jofin T. Chacko

Verdict - Good

Definitely a movie that we can be proud of. It dabbles in the uncharted territory of alternate history, blending in Kathodu Kathoram nicely to solve a murder case on the film's sets. This is an innovative attempt, which can hopefully forge more movies. For those going to see the movie, knowing the basic plot of Kathodu Kathoram would help set the context.

Being a retro enthusiast, this film entertained me well, with the allure of vintage costumes, Malayalam Cinema trivia from the 80s, and great location sets. The gossip columnist character, played by T.G. Ravi, was one of my favorites. It showed how gossip and film magazines influenced careers back in the day — what once worked in print now works via video.

Asif Ali’s purple patch continues, and Anaswara gave a measured performance. Though the second half dragged a bit, this was a cool attempt. A good start for Mollywood in 2025.

Release 2 - Pravinkoodu Shaapu

Director - Sreeraj Sreenivasan

Verdict - Below Average

Coming from Anwar Rasheed’s production house, I had high hopes. The crew looked solid.

But Basil didn’t quite land this role. The comedy fell flat, and the shouting overwhelmed the performance. His dialogue delivery was overly stretched — like a rubber band. While I appreciate his attempt to try something new, cop roles may not be his strength.

Soubin and Shivajith, on the other hand, were excellent. Soubin’s Kochi slang was a delight, and both actors really owned their roles. But the supporting cops were overly dramatic and the film spoon-fed every plot point — it disrupted immersion.

The screenplay explored the shaapu patrons’ backstories well. It highlighted how the common man’s life isn’t glamorous — themes of revenge, pity, and banter blend together in these characters who drink away each evening.

Vishnu Vijay’s music felt flat. The lyrics — unusually ordinary — didn’t live up to what I expect from Muhsin Parari or Vinayak Sasikumar. Overall: a below-average film.

That said — I loved Kannan’s playing card trick scenes (even if part of me thinks it was VFX). Still super cool!

Pravinkoodu Shaapu Official Trailer
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