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All About: Thudarum Full Movie (2025) Review: A Masterpiece of Emotion, Revenge & Justice
When was the last time a movie made you clench your fists in anger, shed a tear, and feel proud—all at once? Thudarum, the 2025 Malayalam thriller directed by Tharun Moorthy and starring the legendary Mohanlal, is exactly that kind of cinematic experience. It’s raw, emotional, and hauntingly real.
Let’s dive deep into why Thudarum is more than just a film—it’s a powerful journey through loss, corruption, and revenge.
The Plot: A Simple Man, A Shocking Twist
Mohanlal plays Shanmughan, affectionately nicknamed “Benz” because of his beloved old black Ambassador car. He’s a soft-spoken taxi driver in the peaceful town of Perunad, Ranni, living a quiet life with his wife Lalitha (played by the graceful Shobana) and his adopted son, Pavi.
Everything seems normal—until it isn’t.
One day, Pavi meets with a minor accident in the Ambassador. The police seize the car under the pretext of a drug case. But things start getting suspicious when Shanmughan is dragged into a web of lies and manipulation by local officers.
And then the unthinkable happens: the body of his own son is found inside the same car.
The Police, The Cover-Up, The Pain
The real story begins here.
DYSP George Mathan and CI Benny—both portrayed with disturbing intensity—frame Shanmughan and cover up a horrific honor killing, all in the name of protecting a powerful local figure. Pavi’s only “crime”? Loving the wrong girl—one from a higher caste.
The car, once a symbol of pride, becomes a coffin, a crime scene, and a heartbreaking metaphor for loss.
Shanmughan’s pain turns into rage. And that rage? It fuels the rest of the film.
Mohanlal: A Masterclass in Emotion
If anyone ever doubted Mohanlal’s ability to carry a film with nothing but his eyes—Thudarum shuts them up. His portrayal of a grieving, determined father is nothing short of masterful.
He doesn’t shout. He doesn’t break down dramatically. He feels—and he makes you feel everything too.
From quiet sobs to explosive outbursts, Mohanlal’s acting is subtle, layered, and completely unforgettable.
Shobana Returns With Grace
Let’s take a moment to talk about Shobana. After years away from mainstream cinema, her role as Lalitha is both nostalgic and refreshing.
She brings warmth to the screen, playing the calm in the middle of Shanmughan’s storm. Their chemistry feels lived-in and real—like two people who’ve weathered life together.
The Villains: Love To Hate Them
Prakash Varma as CI George Mathan and Binu Pappu as SI Benny make your blood boil—and that’s the point. These aren’t over-the-top Bollywood-style bad guys. They’re the kind you might actually run into in real life.
Manipulative. Calm. Smiling while they ruin lives.
That realism makes the story hit harder.
Direction & Writing: Tharun Moorthy’s Bold Vision
Tharun Moorthy, known for Operation Java and Saudi Vellakka, outdoes himself here. He’s mastered the slow-burn thriller, and Thudarum is no exception.
Every frame, every silence, every line of dialogue feels deliberate.
The first half sets the emotional foundation. The second half rips it apart.
And it works beautifully.
Cinematography & Music: Soul of the Film
Cinematographer Shaji Kumar paints Kerala like never before—lush forests, rainy roads, misty mornings. But it’s the contrast between nature’s beauty and the cruelty of the plot that adds real depth.
Composer Jakes Bejoy delivers a score that’s minimal but effective. It knows when to swell, when to pause, and when to just let silence speak.
Themes That Stick With You
1. Fatherhood Beyond Blood
The bond between Shanmughan and Pavi isn’t biological. But the love? It’s deeper than most real-life families.
It’s about chosen love. Earned love. And ultimately, the pain of losing it.
2. Honor Killings & Caste-Based Violence
The film doesn’t shy away from tough topics. Pavi’s murder stems from an “honor” issue—still sadly relevant in many parts of India.
Thudarum exposes the rot in systems that allow such crimes to happen—and then get buried.
3. Revenge As Redemption
Yes, Shanmughan seeks revenge. But it’s not blind rage. It’s a cry for justice when all other doors close. And when it finally comes, it’s not just satisfying—it’s liberating.
Box Office Numbers & Critical Reception
- Released in May 2025
- Grossed over ₹230 crore globally
- One of the highest-grossing Malayalam films of the year
- Holds a 93% rating on Rotten Tomatoes (from early critic reviews)
Audiences have called it:
“A masterpiece of modern Malayalam cinema.”
“Mohanlal’s best performance in a decade.”
“A film that leaves you speechless.”
Streaming Details
Missed it in theaters? No worries!
Thudarum is now available for streaming on JioCinema.
Make sure you’re emotionally prepared though—this isn’t your average thriller. This is a story that stays with you.
Is Thudarum Like Drishyam?
Great question. Many are comparing Thudarum to Drishyam—and for good reason.
Both feature:
- A middle-class father
- A crime cover-up
- A strong emotional core
But Thudarum goes darker. Drishyam is a puzzle. Thudarum is a punch to the gut.
If Drishyam made you think, Thudarum will make you feel.
Final Verdict
Thudarum is a near-perfect mix of emotion, suspense, and social commentary. It’s not flashy. It doesn’t try to impress with big effects or loud stunts.
Instead, it quietly builds a world—and then tears it apart, leaving you shaken, moved, and oddly satisfied.
If you love Malayalam cinema, or just love good storytelling, this film is unmissable.
FAQs About Thudarum
1. Is Thudarum based on a true story?
While it isn’t directly based on real events, it reflects true issues like honor killings and police corruption that are unfortunately still relevant today.
2. What does the title ‘Thudarum’ mean?
Thudarum roughly translates to “will continue” or “ongoing”—a symbolic name for a story that refuses to end quietly.
3. Where can I watch Thudarum online?
You can stream Thudarum on JioCinema.
4. Is it suitable for family viewing?
Due to intense emotional themes and some violence, it’s best suited for mature audiences—especially parents, who may feel it more deeply.
5. Will there be a sequel?
There’s no confirmation yet, but fans are buzzing about a possible spiritual sequel or similar project from the director.
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