Thudarum, a 2025 Malayalam-language crime thriller, marks the 360th film of superstar Mohanlal. Directed by Tharun Moorthy, the film presents an emotionally intense narrative revolving around a former stuntman whose life takes a dramatic turn when he gets entangled in a drug-related police investigation.
Main Cast
- Mohanlal as Shanmugham (aka Benz) – a retired stuntman turned taxi driver.
- Shobana as Lalitha – Shanmugham’s wife, marking a nostalgic on-screen reunion.
- Binu Pappu as SI Benny – a layered character evolving from comic to cunning.
- Prakash Varma as George Matthan – the film’s primary antagonist, a corrupt police officer.
Positive Aspects of Thudarum
- Outstanding Performance by Mohanlal
Mohanlal delivers a nuanced and emotionally gripping performance that forms the backbone of the film. His portrayal of Shanmugham showcases a rich blend of vulnerability, rage, and resilience. - Shobana’s Strong Comeback
Shobana returns with a graceful and powerful performance, bringing depth to the film’s emotional core. Her chemistry with Mohanlal is both nostalgic and compelling. - Impressive Cinematography
Shot by Shaji Kumar, the visuals beautifully capture Kerala’s urban and rural landscapes, enhancing the film’s tone and narrative immersion. - Impactful Music
The background score by Jakes Bejoy complements the mood transitions and intensifies key moments, especially during the suspense sequences. - Tight Direction & Storytelling
Director Tharun Moorthy masterfully blends emotion with tension, delivering a story that resonates on both a personal and social level.
Drawbacks to Consider
- Slightly Sluggish Pacing in the Second Half
Some viewers may find the second half slower, especially if expecting a continuous adrenaline rush. - Predictable Plot Elements
A few narrative turns might feel familiar to regular fans of crime thrillers. - Underdeveloped Supporting Roles
While the lead characters shine, certain side roles could have used more depth and screen time to enrich the overall plot.
🎯 Should You Watch Thudarum?
✔️ Watch it if:
- You enjoy emotionally layered thrillers.
- You’re a fan of Mohanlal or Shobana.
- You appreciate Malayalam cinema’s emphasis on realism and storytelling.
Skip it if:
- You prefer fast-paced action over emotional drama.
- You’re looking for a completely unpredictable plot.
Box Office & Popularity
“Thudarum” has witnessed a strong box office performance, grossing ₹80 crore in India within the first two weeks. The film’s positive word-of-mouth, driven by its emotional weight and Mohanlal’s performance, continues to attract audiences.
Final Verdict
Thudarum is a must-watch Malayalam crime drama that skillfully blends emotional storytelling with suspenseful moments. The film stands out due to Mohanlal’s powerhouse performance, Shobana’s dignified return, and Tharun Moorthy’s crisp direction. Despite minor flaws in pacing and predictability, the film leaves a lasting impression.
