Thalavan (2024, Malayalam, Sony LIV)
If a murder mystery doesn't start off with a murder, it's an indicator that it might be a good one.
That is the case with this police procedural drama.
The movie opens with Dileesh Pothan (Udayabhanu), a retired DYSP, now hosting a well-known TV show where he recounts true crime stories from his police career.
The main storyline begins when Udayabhanu hesitantly chooses to explore the notorious "Cheppanamthotta Case," a shocking incident that gripped the community and implicated two officers, Circle Inspector Jayashankar and Sub-Inspector Karthik.
A senior police officer Biju Menon (as Jayashankar) is accused in the murder of a woman. The body is found on his own terrace. It is of a woman, Ramya, whose husband he put in jail for hacking Jayashankar's own wife and severely injuring her 2 years ago.
All circumstantial evidence is against him. But if Jayashankar didn't do it, who did?
The list of suspects includes not only criminals that Jayashankar put away, but a bunch of policemen as well who he had antagonized at various points in time.
The investigation is headed by SI Asif Ali (as Karthik). He too doesn't like Jayashankar (welcome to the club :-) ), but he is a professional and does his duty seriously.
During this investigation, everyone's principles and character are tested.
At any given time you suspect 3-4 people simultaneously. The script is tight, and does hold your attention throughout.
Biju Menon and Asit Ali deliver solid performances as usual.
The film portrays police officers in a nuanced light, neither villainizing nor glorifying them, sparking a curiosity that draws viewers in. It immerses us in their petty conflicts, ego clashes, and hierarchical struggles with the gripping intensity of a sharply crafted workplace drama.
The plot is sometimes compelling and sometimes convoluted. In the second half there's parts where the viewer has too much pressure on his/her brain to make sense of what is happening :-).
But all in all, the writing by Anand Thevarkkat and Sarath Perumbavoor and direction by Jis Joy are top notch.
The gore is kept at a bare minimum. The plot twists are compelling. The explanation is satisfying.
And at the end there is a hint of a sequel due to another death.
All in all, will definitely recommend.
