Thudarum (2025) Movie Movies4u

Thudarum, directed by Tharun Moorthy, features Mohanlal in the lead role alongside veteran actress Shobana, acclaimed director-actor Bharathiraja, and Prakash Varma. This Malayalam drama film has become one of the most significant releases of 2025, showcasing a compelling story set in the quiet hill town of Ranni.

Released on April 25, 2025, Thudarum blends family drama with intense suspense, exploring themes of love, loss, honor, and revenge. The story follows a simple taxi driver whose life changes when his beloved Ambassador car becomes the center of conflict.

Thudarum Movie Actors

Plot and Storyline

In the peaceful hill town of Perunad, Ranni, Shanmughan leads a quiet life as a taxi driver. The story revolves around this simple man’s deep attachment to his beloved Ambassador car, which becomes a symbol of his identity. When fate tests him, he must prove how far he’ll go for what he holds dear.

The film’s strength lies in its authentic portrayal of small-town life and universal themes. The plot builds tension through character interactions rather than conventional thriller elements, making it mature cinema that respects audience intelligence.

Cast Performances

Mohanlal delivers what many consider one of his finest performances in recent years. His portrayal of Shanmughan is nuanced and deeply moving, avoiding melodrama while focusing on subtle emotional expressions. The performance makes the character relatable and authentic.

Shobana’s return to Malayalam cinema alongside Mohanlal has been well-received. Her chemistry with Mohanlal adds significant depth to the narrative. Supporting actors like Maniyan Pilla Raju, Irshad, Farhaan Faasil, and Thomas Mathew contribute meaningfully to the story.

Direction and Technical Quality

Tharun Moorthy’s direction has been praised for its maturity and restraint. The director focuses on character-driven storytelling rather than flashy visual effects, creating an intimate viewing experience. The film’s real strength lies in its details – weathered interiors, taxi routes, and passenger interactions all feel incredibly real.

The background music is tender and never intrusive, allowing performances to shine. The cinematography captures Kerala’s scenic beauty while maintaining focus on characters and their emotional journeys.

Critical Reception

The film has received generally positive reviews from critics and audiences. IMDb rates the film at 7.7/10, indicating strong audience appreciation. Sajin Shrijith of The Week rated it 3.5/5, while some critics had mixed opinions about the script’s nuance.

I found the film’s ability to draw empathy from audiences particularly impressive. You care about the characters because everything feels genuine, not forced or manipulative.

What Works Well

What makes Thudarum stand out is its ability to create emotional connection without demanding it. The authentic performances, especially Mohanlal’s portrayal, create a deeply engaging experience. The film treats its subject matter respectfully, avoiding common clichés.

The movie works as both character study and reflection on career choices. This meta-commentary adds an interesting layer, making it more than just a simple drama.

Box Office Success

Thudarum has proven to be a massive commercial success. It’s currently the third highest-grossing Malayalam film and fourth highest-grossing Indian film of 2025. The film crossed ₹200 crore globally within just 17 days of release.

Made on a modest ₹30 crore budget, the film’s success demonstrates the power of content-driven cinema. In Kerala, it grossed ₹47 crore within seven days, showing Mohanlal’s enduring star power.

Final Verdict

Thudarum is a heartfelt film that combines emotional storytelling with slow-burning suspense. With powerful performances and grounded direction, it’s a fine example of mature Malayalam cinema that respects both audience and characters.

In an age of overstimulating visuals, this film reminds us of the beauty of silence and sincerity. For fans of Mohanlal and quality Malayalam cinema, Thudarum is undoubtedly a must-watch film that reinforces the power of good storytelling and authentic performances.