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Boxing action choreography worked great. Excellent sound work to complement the action.

Naslen gave an outstanding performance.

Interesting scripting style. Director's movie - not an audience movie.

There is no specific story line as such. It is an experience. I was engaged pretty much all through the movie.

Boxing action brings in a lot of intensity but at the same time keeps a very safe distance from the ear clenching Marco. It is a pretty good balance. You can enjoy the violence without guilt.

Vishnu Vijay brings in some fresh music. The makers were just having fun. Cinematography, music, sound. There is no insight that the movie claims to lead the audience towards nor is there anything. However, in small scenes, there are interesting nuances that are conveyed.

It is a very bold movie - beating conventions. I am not sure if I enjoyed it as much as Thallumala. Soon after finishing Thallumala, I knew I would rewatch it. This one - I may.

Excellent performances from all the actors. Stylish. Vibe. Fun. Music.

It is experimental, and genuine.

Sometimes, the best cinematic experiences are the ones you least expect, and Alapuzzha Gymkhana is a prime example. Walking in with no expectations, I was immediately hooked; the film deftly pulls you from one scene to the next, maintaining a compelling rhythm throughout.

The boys' gang is a definite highlight, bringing genuine laughs with their excellent comic timing. Their camaraderie feels authentic and is a strong anchor for the movie's lighter moments. On the romantic front, while Jojo's attempts to flatter the girls were entertaining, I found myself unexpectedly rooting for him to end up with the one he initially refused to kiss, a testament to the subtle character development at play.

Surprisingly, given what I imagine might have been a modest budget, the boxing scenes are remarkably well executed. They carry a real punch and add an unexpected layer of grit to the narrative. The story itself gels seamlessly with the screenplay, ensuring a cohesive and enjoyable viewing experience, and each character, big or small, plays their part with conviction. Adding to the film's charm is a fantastic background score that perfectly complements the on-screen action and emotion.

This movie leaves you wanting more. I wouldn't be surprised if a second part is already in the works, and if it is, consider me eagerly waiting.

Alappuzha Gymkhana arrives like a surprise uppercut, smooth in its build-up and explosive in delivery. Director Khalid Rahman crafts a film that blends athletic grit with youthful charm, and the result is a surprisingly entertaining and stylish sports drama that packs in both punches and personality.

Let's start with the casting, absolutely on point. Every character feels like they belong to the world of Gymkhana. There's an authenticity in their performances, and it's crystal clear that the team put in serious off-screen effort, especially in the physically demanding sequences. And boy, does it pay off.

Lukman's entry is nothing short of electric. The pacing of the film suddenly shifts gears the moment he steps in, and from there, the boxing segments become the heartbeat of the movie. His scenes are pure class, intense, calculated, and incredibly engaging. Paired with the BGM that roars through every punch, dodge, and takedown, the boxing sequences achieve a cinematic high. It's no exaggeration to say that the background music is the soul of this movie, not just elevating scenes, but becoming a character in itself. Complete credits go to Vishnu for such an engaging score.

Ganapathi's character truly feels like the hero of the film. With his commanding presence and quiet strength, he anchors the story in a way that draws you in. Speaking of which, while the movie may lack typical "heroic highs" in the early half, Khalid masterfully saves that big punch for the climax, delivering exactly what the audience is waiting for. Though, fair warning, not all jokes land perfectly. A few flat moments break the rhythm, but they're fleeting and forgivable.

Another pleasant surprise is Anagha. She doesn't just appear - she steals the show. Her screen presence and flair light up the film. I just loved watching her moves on ring.

Interestingly, even though Naslen is a fan favorite, he isn't the main focus of the story. Instead, Khalid smartly uses him as the narrator, which brings a fresh touch to the film and allows more attention to be given to the whole group and the world of Gymkhana.

All in all, Alappuzha Gymkhana is a feel-good, festive treat with enough style, sound, and soul to make it one of the finest watches this vishu season. Whether you're here for the action, the style, or just a good cinematic experience, this one's definitely worth a watch.

Alappuzha Gymkhana is simply worth watching. The cinematography in the boxing scenes and fights is superb. The music is good. The entire cast delivered a good performance. The movie starts off at a steady pace in the first hour and then becomes entertaining and engaging. The pre-climax and climax are peak moments. It's a comedy-sports movie, and the director has done a great job, reminiscent of Thallumala.

If you enjoyed Thallumala, you might appreciate this film's similar vibe.

Plot :: Jojo Johnson, David "DJ" John, Shifas "Valthu" Ahammed, Shifas "Cherthu" Ali, and Shanavas are five friends from Alappuzha who have just completed their 12th-grade board exams. While Shanavas passes, the rest of the group fails, leaving their prospects of college admission uncertain.

Rating - 3.5/5

A well written and executed sports humour drama showing the struggles of teenage boys for building their life.

The plot of the story moves through the lives of few teenage boys who takes boxing as a medium to their college admissions and how boxing changes their outlook towards life forms the storyline.

Khalid Rahman has incorporated all the essential flavours to this movie for giving an entertaining experience to the viewers. The rapport among the boys and the families attitude with them were well portrayed by adding subtle humour elements in the screenplay. Khalid Rahman has kept the assurance alive among the audience expecting a good theatre experience. The boxing sequences and the mood set through the song Hatja was on point.

Naslen has given a natural performance in the movie as a boy next door. Ganapathi,Lukman,Franco,Sandeep,Baby Jean,Anagha Ravi & Shiva Hariharan also made convincing performances of their characters.

Jimshi Khalid has exceptionally shot the boxing sequences with Vishnu Vijay's music and BGM's elevating the vibe. Special mention to the editor Nishadh Yusuf(late) for giving a wholesome entertainer.

A good watchable fun entertainer and a go-to movie with family on this weekend.

Peak is an absolute masterpiece. Khalid Rahman's direction was phenomenal-he truly brought the story to life in a way that kept me completely engaged from the very beginning. I was so immersed in the film that I didn't even realize when the first half ended. The pacing was flawless, with no unnecessary lags or dull moments. Every scene had a purpose, and it all flowed so smoothly.

The acting was top-notch across the board. Each and every character felt so authentic and convincing, making it incredibly easy to get emotionally invested in the story. The performances were powerful and natural, and it's clear that the cast gave their absolute best.

What really stood out to me was the perfect blend of genres. The film delivered suspense, comedy, action, and emotion-all executed brilliantly. The action sequences were intense and well-choreographed, while the humor felt fresh and perfectly timed, offering moments of relief without taking away from the tension or seriousness of the story.

There was never a dull moment. Every element, from the cinematography to the background score, worked together seamlessly to elevate the overall experience. This film truly stands apart from others in its genre. It offers something fresh and unique that I haven't seen in a long time.

I genuinely can't wait to watch the second part. The cliffhanger and buildup were done so well that it left me craving more. I would highly recommend this film to anyone who loves cinema-it's an experience you don't want to miss. One of the best films I've watched in recent times.

Alapuzha Gymkhana: released in 2025 and directed by Khalid Rahman. Fun movie! Naslen is a real natural, his comic reactions are instantaneous. Lukman Avaran has done a great job as the boxing coach. Story is of a group of friends who fails 12th, and decides to learn boxing so they can get in the sports quota. The movie is light and fun, the physical transformation of all actors, Ganapathi, Naslen, Lukman is amazing. Everyone acted brilliantly and naturally. Naslen ultimately understands he's more of a team motivator than a boxer. Ganapathi though he's a brilliant boxer, realizes he needs to work on not letting outside threats get to him. Baby Jean was absolutely cool and fun to watch. And cheruthu.

A Movie to forget all your tensions, worries for some hours, a perfect choice to relax in theater with your Friends and Families in this Festive season !

Khalid Rahman ; once again proved that he is a guaranteed entertaining filmmaker !; he crafted Joyful movie with a simple subject in a very very Engaging way with a Charming lead role by Naslen . Nasleen is on the way to earn the bankable star of Mollywood, This one is a nice one for that !

This is not only his story, this movie belong to the gangs of Alappuzha gymkhana, the boys & their Chemistry and Cheerful moments are the Main highlights !

Music and all other technical departments are supporting the vibrancy mood of the film well !

Go and have a Amusing time with Gymkhana boys in Cinemas near you !

Khalid Rahman is now officially the Anwar Rasheed of the mid-to-late 2000s, creating bonafide entertainers that'll strike a chord with every audience segment, one way or another. However, as opposed to Anwar Rasheed, who has moved on to production and directs only occasionally, Khalid Rahman is busy cracking bro-code with younger talents, this time around, dealing with an almost fully Gen Z cast. Yes, as many remarked, the plot is basic, and even the overall progression is somewhat minimal. Naslen, though getting the most screentime, is not a solo protagonist here. Each member of the ensemble has specific shoes to fill, both in terms of action, humour, and morale-building.

Not every moment of humour lands smoothly, but they keep getting better, with the second half turning into a truly Khalid Rahman flick. The boxing matches are incredibly shot, and stay unique, given the layering attributed to each character. There's a lot of Ryan Coogler-esque shot composition, especially during the boxing match scenes, where Jimshi Khalid's brilliant frames work in close quarters with the sparring opponents. Kramer Morgenthau's DP work in the last two Creed films also comes across as a significant inspiration; at least, some of the punches are executed like REAL PUNCHES.

I thought Vishnu Vijay went into GOD MODE with his background score, completely stripped away from what I heard in Pani, Pravinkoodu Shaappu, and of course, Thallumaala. They not only elevate all the boxing set pieces, but also manage to send a zappy fire straight into your veins with what unfurls during that final street fight that goes BONKERS! Again, this is the kind of film that benefits from the vibrant reel-ish edit style that Nishadh Yusuf (RIP) was known in the last few years for (..not Kanguva). Vishnu Govind does a fantastic job with the sound design.

Finally, the CAST. I like how all the boys (Naslen, Baby Jean, Sandeep, Ganapathi, Lukman, and the rest) had interesting arcs of their own, which reflected in their fight styles as well as the normal teenager personas (..um, all these dudes are well into their 20s, so kudos to their physical transformations!). Plus, it's not always that a side character's recovery during a boxing match results in a clapworthy "mass" moment. The girls (Noila Francy, Nanda Nishanth, and Anagha Ravi) are all solid too, but since they get comparatively less screentime, we get to know their characters only at a superficial level. I'd love to see more of each of them in Malayalam cinema going forward.

On the whole, I don't have many complaints about what the film offered as a theatrical experience. It's a festival winner by all means, because its Head Chef and team have cooked it with mostly the right ingredients in the right doses.

This movie was an absolute disappointment in almost every aspect-from weak writing to poorly developed characters, especially the male lead. The portrayal of the main character was particularly frustrating. For the first time, a character played by Naslen felt downright annoying and unrelatable. In a film like this, the main character needs to be likable to carry the emotional weight of the story, but here, the director somehow turned Naslen into a weirdly off-putting and shallow personality.

The most bizarre thing about Jojo (Naslen's character) is his fake, over-the-top confidence that kicks in after he messes things up badly. Instead of owning his mistakes or showing real growth, he just slaps on this irritatingly smug attitude that makes him even harder to connect with. It's as if the film wants us to root for him despite giving us every reason not to.

The film seems to be attempting to introduce a new-age relationship dynamic among youth, where emotional connections and commitments are thrown out the window. It's portrayed as a kind of "free-for-all" hippie existence where nobody cares about who is dating whom or what their relationship even means. Instead of coming off as modern or refreshing, it ends up feeling soulless and chaotic. If the director was aiming for an "American Pie" style dynamic tailored to the Malayali audience, it clearly didn't land.

The first half of the film was painfully unfunny, with hollow dialogue and scenes that lacked purpose. The main character's annoying behavior drives others into bizarre and illogical choices-like randomly joining a gym and taking up boxing with no real motivation or buildup. There was nothing memorable or engaging about this part of the movie.

That said, the second half did offer a bit of redemption through some well-choreographed, realistic fight scenes, and a few catchy tracks that brought some energy to an otherwise lifeless narrative. These elements were the only positives I could take away It's honestly hard to believe this film comes from the same director who gave us Anuraga Karikkin Vellam.

Initially, I was a bit disappointed that a Telugu dub wasn't available, finding only Malayalam and Tamil audio options. However, undeterred, I booked my ticket at Lulu Mall in Hyderabad, relying on my limited Malayalam knowledge. To my pleasant surprise, English subtitles were available, which I was very grateful for.

As for the movie itself, it offers a smooth and engaging screenplay filled with casual, relatable comedy, much like observing the everyday lives of teenagers. The addition of boxing as a central element was a fantastic choice. While I might have been okay with seeing untrained actors portray boxers, I was impressed to see that the entire cast was clearly well-trained in the sport, evident in their stances. Even Nelson's surprising six-pack added to the authenticity.

I particularly feel that Anagha Ravi deserves a full-fledged sports drama centered around boxing, a sentiment reinforced by the recently released video song.

The cinematography is truly outstanding. Capturing boxing scenes effectively is a challenging task with a high risk of failure, but the filmmakers absolutely nailed it. Some shots were reminiscent of Hollywood-level production, and I was particularly satisfied with the boxing visuals, especially after watching "Sarpatta."

Regarding the music, I enjoyed the trailer's background score and had already listened to three great songs on music streaming apps. The background music in the theater was also good, although I feel it would be best appreciated in a home theater setup or with quality earphones at home.

The screenplay is consistently smooth, and the story stands out for not being a typical, predictable boxing drama. This is where the movie's magic lies - it strikes a perfect balance, neither too intense nor too light.

I especially appreciated the climax. Just as I thought the movie was concluding, an interesting scene unfolded with a large group of boys, which I wasn't expecting. It was a great way to end the film.

Overall, this movie offers a refreshing and well-executed take on teenage life blended with the exciting world of boxing. It's definitely worth watching.

A fantastic cinematic experience that masterfully balances laugh-out-loud humour with genuine adrenaline-pumping moments. While the narrative arc might not be the central focus, the sheer realism of the unfolding events is incredibly compelling, feeling less like a typical genre film and more like witnessing something that could actually happen in such a setting. I particularly loved how the absence of tired movie clichés contributed to this authentic feel. The cinematography, especially during the close-quarters action, was truly outstanding, making you feel the impact of every hit and placing you right beside the characters in the thick of it. This immersive visual storytelling is a major highlight. Ultimately, this is a thoroughly feel-good movie that deserves to be seen on the big screen at least once for its sheer visceral and entertaining qualities.

Alappuzha Gymkhana is one of those movies that would work in any language. It's crisp, to the point, and genuinely just out there to have fun. There's nothing particularly exciting in the story, but the screenplay brings enough flair and flavour to keep things moving.

The performances are solid across the board, although one or two actors brought in for comic relief were terribly miscast and ended up being outright annoying every time they were on screen.

Special shoutout to the girls in the movie, especially Anagha, who had some seriously cool boxing moments. Naslen, while very good, was basically just Naslen throughout.

What let me down was the climax and the whole sequence of events that led up to it. It felt meh and a bit lost. Still, it plays out fine as a quick, feel-good one-time watch.

First half was too cleshe and not very satisfying to watch. Very few comedy in the movie and chali romantic dialogues. No proper charector development. 2nd half had good vibes but poor direction. Cinematography was good 👍. Overall 2nd half boxing vibes are good but story is stuck between boxing, immature boys & cleshe romance. Can watch it for timepass.

It didnot meet the hype it created before the release. No proper endings for the shot & dialogues. Average bgm and dialogues.

If it was more about the boxing it would have been solid 8 or 9 but it was very disappointing to see such a weak story line.

Laughter in every punch 👊

It's crisp, to the point, and genuinely just out there to have fun.

There's nothing particularly exciting in the story, but the screenplay brings enough flair and flavour to keep things moving.

One word review: engaging.

Budget: 12 crore.

Worldwide Gross: 72.15 crore.

India Net: 44.25 crore.

Overseas Gross: 20 crore.

Return on Investment ROI 32.27 crore.

Verdict: Blockbuster.

In Boxing, dodging a punch is probably as important as landing one. Filmmaker Khalid Rahman clearly knows a thing or two about this evasion technique, which he portrays so well in the elegantly staged boxing bouts in his fifth film, Alappuzha Gymkhana. Like a skilled boxer, he also gently evades the genre compulsions of making a sports movie, especially one that revolves around boxing. In doing so, he also breaks the expectations associated with him after the inventive Thallumaala. It is not surprising, though, for all his five films have hardly anything in common. The attempts to break cliches in a sports movie is an endeavour fraught with risks, for it also means not going along that easy path with an endless supply of emotional highs and cheap thrills. Alappuzha Gymkhana does not deliver much of the latter but makes up with a relatable tale that spares a thought for those not cut out to win. The film is written in such a way as to make us think that we wouldn't want it any other way.

The opening scene of Jojo Johnson (Naslen) and his gang, who have all failed in class twelve, celebrating their failure and planning for the next move, in a way, sets the tone for the film. The easy camaraderie and humour between this band of friends, making it seem like they have all grown up together, drives a good part of the film. They give and take friendly jabs and spiritedly fall together into the same hole they have dug for themselves. The decision to learn boxing to secure enough grace marks for higher studies happens to be one such decision. They are at that stage in life where mistakes are bound to be made while trying to figure out what they want to do with the rest of their lives. The film reflects that spirit, and this probably aids it in staying clear of the generic paths.

While the guys take much of the screen space, evidently less effort has gone into penning the female characters - except that of boxer Natasha (Anagha Maya Ravi), who reminds one of 'Dancing Rose' from Pa. Ranjith'sSarpatta Parambarai by almost turning the boxing ring into a dance floor. Jimshi Khalid's camera turns the boxing bouts into a visual treat, with editor Nishadh Yusuf, who passed away in his prime, turning out one last memorable work. For a boxing film, not much blood is spilt on the screen. There is more fun and joy than blood in the film. Vishnu Vijay, who lent part of the magic to Thallumaala, has created songs that gel well with the mood of the boxing training and matches.

Naslen has taken remarkable strides from being the puffs-loving boy of Thanneer Mathan Dinangal to anchoring a film partly on the strength of his performance. But almost all of the youngsters - be it rapper Baby Jean or Ganapathi or Sandeep Pradeep or Franco Francis or Shiva Hariharan or Anagha - have pulled off performances that make the film an engaging watch. This might also be one of the reasons why the film works when it subverts the typical expectations from a hero or a climax. Alappuzha Gymkhana will be remembered more for the artful dodges it made than the punches it landed. Sometimes, you don't need a punch to make an impact.

Alappuzha Gymkhana is perhaps the first time this year I've felt utter joy at the movies Khalid Rahman delivers a smashing knockout pun intended with a charming cheeky coming of age crowdpleaser that lands both punches and punchlines with equal delight A total blast Vibe vibey

Watch it in fully packed theatre for experiencing high goosebumps moments and good applauses for the scenes At all a clean good Sports comedy item especially second half as first half first half is not at all bad with some some cleeashe scnes but it is not a big negative in the film and Making and direction Handsoff to Khalid rahman

Boys & technical aspects and awesome performances by all especially Naslen Ganapathi lukman Baby Jean and Dop editing & wow music.

Basically after watching the teaser of the film I felt that this movie could deliver me a visual treat of the death threatening sport Boxing,But after watching this movie the visuals for just some scenes were outstanding. The climax portion could be written in a different perspective which could have the made the viewing experience more fun. From the usual Naslen Film I didn't get that comedy punch which made me a little disappointing. Next towards the cast ,The debut actor Baby Jean had done a wonderful job as if he had done many throughout his career. Naslen,Ganapathy,Lukman had done a mesmerising role in the film especially in shaping their physique for their roles. Lastly one more point about the director Khalid,His previous film Thallumala was exactly a visual treat for the audience .Expected that but was disappointed. Overall the film was a above average but not the best compared to Naslen's other movies.

I was so excited about this movie due to the director, cast and the premise. However, after watching it, I was so let down. Khalid Rahman lands the boxing premise really well within the local context, but the plotlines and character arcs are really really poor. The main lead Naslen is handled in quite a haphazard way and a lot of moments and his reactions are really awkward and doesn't land. Some of the other characters have a lot of potential and as soon as they peak, they are side lined. Overall, the movie is below average with the potential to have been a really good watch. However, the mishmash of characters, poor writing and script weakens the film significantly. I feel for the boys who must have put in a lot of effort to look the part.

Alappuzha Gymkhana isn't just a film - it's a quietly immersive experience that flows like the backwaters it's rooted in. Every frame feels soaked in nostalgia, melancholy, and restrained beauty, capturing the essence of Kerala's soul with astonishing authenticity.

The direction is sharp yet subtle, never spoon-feeding emotions but letting them simmer. The cinematography deserves special mention - hazy lights, reflective water surfaces, and that warm, faded color palette give the film a texture that feels both vintage and deeply personal.

The performances are understated and real. Not one character feels like they're acting; it's as if we're eavesdropping on lives we almost forgot we once knew. The screenplay is poetic - not in its words, but in its silences, glances, and slow, deliberate pacing. This is Malayalam cinema at its most honest.

Whether you're from Kerala or not, Alappuzha Gymkhana has that rare ability to stir something universal inside you - longing, hiraeth, the ache of time passing. It's not a crowd-pleaser. It's a soul-touch.

10/10 - A modern classic waiting to be rediscovered in every rewatch.

I don't know why, saw it with big aspirations, but the film felt like a spoof. I believe the director struggled to place actors in place, the problem could be because most were individuals who had acted in lead or second-lead roles, and one or two had the potential to be in a lead role. Hence, that struggle was there. The overall dynamics was mediocre as well. Most characters were joker's as well. In recent years, I haven't seen a main character without strong dimensions such as Lukman played, he had a lot of opportunity to shine, but felt like they were stripped-off. The most underplayed and dangerously laced aspect of the film were the family situations of the main actors and the shown shades of the characters routine psychosocial behavior. I don't know if it was done with good intentions, and some aspects are not necessarily true for everyone, but it's a dangerous push the film is making for imprinting it. If the plan was to make Naslen as the main lead, this was a failure, even though some of it was possible at the end in a preposterous manner, there were clear moments that revealed he was out of his depth. All in all, at most a 5.5/10 film, a film that had a lot of potential, especially with a lot of youths, but didn't reach those levels.

This is not a typical Sports drama or boxing movie showing heroism like few movies released before.

Script,direction ,twist in climax is good. Boxing choreography has done exceptionally well.

Music ,songs,Background scores are done aptly assimilating the situation and scenes.

Panjara panju song&Hatja song are too nice to watch .

Naslen and supporting actors has done their roles well,especially who played the role of coach and lady boxer Anagha.

Comedy is nicely mixed through out the movie which will keep u engaging with out lag till end

Overall its a good entertainer if ur not expecting a realistic sports drama.

Alappuzha Gymkhana is a refreshing watch that stands out for its grounded storytelling and absence of over-the-top heroism or formulaic clichés. Directed by Khalid Rahman, the film gently tugs at your heart while consistently putting a smile on your face. It beautifully captures the lives of kids in a typical coastal neighborhood, making the audience feel like they're watching their own people on screen.

The humor is organic and lands effortlessly, with several moments evoking loud laughter in the theatre. One of the standout scenes is the fight sequence at the sevens tournament - executed with such elegance and realism that it received spontaneous applause from the audience.

The direction by Khalid Rahman deserves special mention for its sincerity and finesse. The performances are equally commendable - Naslen, Ganapathi, and Lukman each bring depth and charm to their characters, creating a believable camaraderie.

Alappuzha Gymkhana is an ideal holiday entertainer for families - heartwarming, humorous, and rooted in reality. Don't miss it.

What a disappointing film. No emotional depth, no meaningful connections-just a complete waste of potential. It's heartbreaking to see good actors' efforts go down the drain because of poor writing and direction. Mr. Khalid Rahman, this was a letdown. If filmmaking isn't your strength anymore, please consider stepping back. Wasting the audience's hard-earned money like this is not just careless-it's disrespectful.

What a disappointing film. No emotional depth, no meaningful connections-just a complete waste of potential. It's heartbreaking to see good actors' efforts go down the drain because of poor writing and direction. Mr. Khalid Rahman, this was a letdown. If filmmaking isn't your strength anymore, please consider stepping back. Wasting the audience's hard-earned money like this is not just careless-it's disrespectful.