Golam (2024)
Anweshippin Kandethum (2024)
Kooman (2022)
Iratta (2023)
Joseph (2018)
It has long been established by movie lovers and critics alike that Malayali filmmakers are masters of investigative crime thrillers, particularly in the police procedural genre. In this post, let us take a look at some of these classics.
Golam (2024)
Directed by Samjad and starring Ranjeet Sajeev, Golam (Sphere) is a whodunit set in a tech company. When the managing director, Isaac John, is found dead in his bathroom, most of the police officers investigating the case, except ASP Sanjeev Krishna (Sajeev), conclude it was an accident. John is discovered dead on the bathroom floor, with the door locked from the inside and a puddle of blood around his head. It appears he fell backward, possibly due to a heart attack—he was known to suffer from COPD. However, Sanjeev smells a rat.
There is no shortage of suspects. All employees, from desk workers to those performing menial jobs, are under scrutiny. Sanjeev also considers John’s brother, who lives overseas, and his business partner as individuals with potential motives. When it is revealed that one of the female employees has sleeping pills without a prescription, John’s investigation takes him to a neuropsychiatric surgeon, Kuriakose. This leads Sanjeev to uncover a diabolical plan that the late Isaac John had set into motion, affecting the lives of many individuals.
From this revelation, Sanjeev must piece together the truth and bring the guilty parties to justice. The plot of Golam is reminiscent of an Agatha Christie novel I have previously reviewed on this blog. However, the killer’s modus operandi in this film feels more contemporary and perhaps even more intriguing.
Golam is a fast-paced, slick thriller with great performances from the cast. It is well-directed and crisply edited, with few distractions. The movie explores themes of corporate greed and the intersection of morality and the legal system.
Anweshippin Kandethum (2024)
The title of this film translates to “Seek, and you will find.” Directed by Darwin Kuriakose and starring Torino Thomas, this film offers two investigations for the price of one. The story revolves around the unraveling of two separate murder cases in rural Kerala.
The film opens with SI Anand and his team of four officers being reinstated after a suspension. The suspension’s cause is revealed through flashbacks: the team was previously investigating the disappearance of Lovely, a young Christian girl. Her body was eventually discovered, with a church as the crime scene. Despite facing significant political and social challenges, Anand’s team solved the case. However, a mishap while apprehending the culprit led to their suspension.
In the present, the team is tasked with solving the mysterious death of another young girl, Sridevi, years earlier in a different village. The investigation uncovers that Sridevi was three months pregnant at the time of her death. Raised by her single mother, Sridevi’s life and relationships become central to the case.
Hostility from the villagers, combined with their knowledge of the team’s earlier failure, makes the investigation even more challenging. Whether Anand’s team can redeem themselves is revealed through a plot that delves deeply into issues of religion, politics, and caste. The screenplay transitions seamlessly between the two cases, maintaining suspense throughout.
Kooman (2022)
Kooman (Owl), starring Asif Ali and directed by Jeethu Joseph, is a unique investigative thriller. The actual investigation begins over an hour into the movie. Set in a Kerala village, the film delivers a powerful message about how disrespect and subjugation can drive individuals to crime.
Ali plays Giri Shankar, a constable at a local police station. When CI Pillai retires, a strict and ruthless officer named Harilal takes over. Harilal bullies and humiliates Giri, even publicly shaming him. Traumatised and unable to let go of the insult, Giri befriends Maniyan, an aging master thief.
Inspired by Maniyan’s stories of crime, Giri starts stealing from villagers. His actions spiral out of control, leading to a murder investigation that places him at risk. To redeem himself, Giri is encouraged by his former boss to investigate the murder. What follows is a gripping tale of redemption and justice.
Kooman is a riveting thriller that explores themes of social discrimination and redemption. While the ending includes some overly commercial elements, the film is a compelling watch.
Iratta (2023)
Iratta (Twins), written and directed by Rohit M. G. Krishnan, and starring Joju George, is the most impactful film on this list.
Set in a police station, the story begins with the sound of three gunshots during a political function. ASI Vinod Kumar, a senior officer, is found dead near his desk. DYSP Pramod, his twin brother, arrives to investigate. Flashbacks reveal a troubled past marked by abuse, estrangement, and familial conflict.
The investigation uncovers Vinod’s dark secrets and his strained relationship with Pramod. The film concludes with a devastating twist that leaves a lasting impact. Iratta is a masterclass in nuanced storytelling, with George delivering a phenomenal performance as the twin brothers.
Joseph (2018)
Joseph, directed by M. Padmakumar and written by Shahi Kabir, is a slow-burn thriller and a tragic tale of loss and redemption.
Joju George plays Joseph, a retired police officer known for his keen investigative skills. Personal tragedies, including the deaths of his former love, his daughter, and his ex-wife, shape his life. Despite these setbacks, Joseph is drawn into solving a murder mystery that has personal implications.
The film tackles themes of medical malpractice and organ donation, blending tragedy with a riveting investigation. George’s performance is outstanding, supported by a strong cast. Joseph is a powerful and emotional thriller that leaves a deep impression.
There you have it: five Malayalam crime thrillers, each with a unique plot and powerful message. These films tackle societal and political issues, ranging from discrimination and corporate greed to medical malpractice. This first installment is a testament to the genre’s mastery by Malayalam filmmakers.
Bay Area Bloke 