The fantasy-comedy film titled “Padakkalam” was officially launched in cinemas on May 8, 2025. After its box office success, movie enthusiasts can now enjoy it at home through streaming on JioHotstar.
If you’re a fan of combining spooky supernatural elements with a good dose of humor, then this TopMob review is just what you need!
The Plot
The graphic novel Padakkalam tells the tale of four humorously inclined comic-book enthusiasts attending an imaginary college in Kerala. In their ordinary routines, they encounter two professors, Renjith and Shafi, who are competing for a promotion to assume the role of Head of Department (HOD).
Despite strange occurrences involving Shafi’s behavior leading to suspicions, Renjith is thought to be involved. It’s uncovered by the group of intellectuals that this man harnesses an ancient power hidden within a board game called Pakida, which explains the body swapping phenomenon.
Or, in a shorter version: Strange actions from Shafi have raised suspicions towards Renjith, and it’s discovered that an ancient power within the dice game ‘Pakida’ is causing the body swaps.
The events that unfold following the discovery of the truth by the group of intellectuals, and whether or not they manage to catch Renjith in the act, forms the foundation for the remainder of the movie.
The Good
Kicking things off impressively, Padakkalam stands out as one of the most entertaining and humorous films to emerge from Malayalam cinema in recent years. First-timer Manu Swaraj, who collaborated on the script, skillfully blends supernatural fantasy and humor.
As a novice, I found myself utterly impressed by this director’s mastery, evidently gained from years of filmmaking experience in Malayalam cinema. Though there were moments where the plot seemed slightly disjointed, the compelling narrative more than compensated, providing a captivating viewing experience overall.
The film offers a straightforward plot, filled with moments that will have you in stitches, thanks to its talented principal cast. Notable performances by Suraj Venjaramoodu, Sharaf U Dheen, and Sandeep Pradeep truly shine and leave a lasting impression on the audience.
As long as these elements hold their ground, the renowned Rajesh Murugesan delivers a delightful and catchy collection of tracks that essentially define the movie. To those who notice such nuances, these tunes will linger in your ears, making for an entertaining listening experience.
Nidhin Raj Arol’s editing is commendable, given that the movie only runs for about two hours. This brevity ensures that the film remains as captivating as possible throughout.
The Bad
Watching Padakkalam is undeniably a relaxing pastime, yet it’s important to note that it also has its shortcomings. Although the storytelling is engaging, some viewers might find it puzzling why a professor with such powerful ancient abilities only aspires to be the Head of Department at a college instead of pursuing more extraordinary goals.
Additionally, a point worth considering is why include female characters without giving them a clear role or objective in the storyline, especially if they only serve to support the main male characters through comic relief, which might be unnecessary.
Just as I might suggest streamlining a story like Aavesham or Romancham by eliminating female characters that seem superfluous to the plot, it would be beneficial to focus on the essential players for a more concise and impactful narrative. This approach allows the audience to fully engage with the actors who truly drive the story forward.
From an artistic perspective, these elements might be seen as expressions of integrity by the authors. Yet, from a technical standpoint, there’s room for improvement in the cinematography.
The Performances
In the movie, I found myself utterly captivated by Suraj and Sharaf U Dheen, who seemed to effortlessly overshadow the rest of the talented cast. To put it simply, they carried a significant portion of the narrative on their shoulders with their intricate portrayals of their characters.
For those who fondly remember Suraj from his humorous roles, this could offer a brief trip down memory lane, revisiting the beloved quirks and mannerisms he exhibited that continue to evoke nostalgia among fans.
Beyond them, Sandeep Pradeep stands out significantly, showcasing abilities that could propel him to stardom in the Malayalam film industry. Additionally, performers such as Saaf and Arun Pradeep, who are renowned for their online popularity, provide numerous standout performances.
Watch Padakkalam trailer
The Verdict
The film, Padakkalam, may not appeal to all viewers and certainly isn’t flawless. But its imperfections contribute to an authentic and entertaining viewing experience.
If you’re interested in seeing a filmmaker’s genuine effort at combining fantasy and comedy, then be sure not to skip this one.
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2025-06-10 13:07