User reviews

The narrative is skillfully crafted, particularly in the first half where homicide investigation unfolds, creating several gripping moments.

However, as we transition into final segment, the plot begins to lose clarity and focus. As more details start to emerge and significant revelations surface, the storyline becomes increasingly convoluted.

This convolution is further complicated by the two main protagonists, with whom I found it difficult to connect.

This disconnect stems not only from their actions, but also from the insufficient exploration of their personal backgrounds and mental states!

With a successful run at the box office, this movie was highly anticipated, and it must be said, it was worth the wait. Two police officers of different ranks become embroiled in a case that garners significant media attention. With the clock ticking to solve the case and their lives at risk, how they handle the situation forms the crux of the story.

Director Jis Joy, usually known for his light-hearted comedy dramas, surprises with a suspense thriller-and he handles it with finesse. The story dives straight into the main plot, quickly engaging the audience. In a genre crowded with investigative and suspense films, it's hard to create one that keeps the audience guessing, but this movie does just that. In a slow yet captivating manner, the suspense is unraveled layer by layer, keeping you hooked.

Biju Menon delivers his serious role with complete conviction, as he always does. Asif Ali proves his versatility once again, brilliantly portraying a no-nonsense, righteous cop. Kottayam Nazeer, with a slight negative shade to his character, also performs well. Mia and Anusree have limited screen time and thus have nothing much to offer. Dileesh Pothan, however, appears somewhat lost, particularly during the news interview scenes.

The editing is sharp, keeping you on the edge of your seat. There are no unnecessary subplots or comedic diversions, which makes the film more relatable. Even the songs play in the background, ensuring they don't disrupt the narrative flow. The climax delivers a shocking yet logical twist, making the movie well worth your time.

No surprises here: this is a well-made thriller that deserves your attention-yet another feather in the cap for Malayalam cinema.

#pranureviews #Thalavan #ThalavanReview.

Other than the 2 good characters played by Biju Menon and asif Ali , there is nothing good about this movie.

The writing is bad , shows so many complex twists and build ups to a disappointing conclusion. How ever have to say that as if Ali looks so convincing in the role of rebel sub inspector and he is proving to be a good actor

5 of us , belong to 3 generations watched this together in theater and no one was impressed.

Now sure how the promotions was so hyped that the movie is good , recent thrillers in Malayalam like Garudan was so much better.

When it released in OTT, I bet all this perspective that the movie is good will change.

Jis joy has proved he is not only for the feel good movies, he can deal with thrillers as well. From the start to the end, the movie is very engaging and we will keep searching for that culprit. He gives us various of suspects throughout the movie. I want to mention his casting, which is brilliant and each of them perform upto the mark. This is a comeback of Asif ali, after couple of failures recently. The golden combo of Biju Menon and Asif Ali's once again proved what they are capable of. At the end, I felt like would have better if they chose someone else as the culprit. Felt like the motive behind the murder is not strong enough. But it's not too bad. After all it's a good crime thriller I have watched after a while. I recommend you to watch it in theatres, I guarantee you, you won't disappoint.

Well written investigation thriller ; good performances of all the actors , especially Asif Ali is fierce and Biju Menon also gave strong performance!

Script by newcomers Anand Thevarkkat & Sarath Perumbavoor with sharp direction by Jis Joy is the backbone of the movie with splendid BGM work by deepak dev, cinematography is nice and other technical department done a neat work !!!!

Solidly crafted twist and turns and engaging narration from thew start to a very good ending make Thalavan is must watch movie in theatre!

Go for this if you love good crime investigative Movies !!!

My rating 8.8.

A shoutout to Jis Joy for venturing outside the feel-good zone even when his last attempt at a thriller didn't work. Thalavan delivers the goods as a police procedural with plenty of characters, their details and dynamics. The first act makes you think it's yet another addition to the Malayalam Ego Clash™ universe. However, Thalavan properly gets going once the main murder plot kicks in. There's an unnecessary song and a mediocre fight sequence following it, but those are the only detractions. Asif Ali is clearly in fine form here, and once again proves his mettle as a performer when he dons the police uniform. Biju Menon is solid too, and since we've already seen him and Asif work together as leads before, their efforts here come across as no surprise. The same goes for much of the supporting cast (ft. Dileesh Pothan, Jaffer Idukki, Miya George, Anushree, etc.), even in instances of weakly written dialogue.

Deepak Dev's musical score makes you invested in the proceedings, though I'd have placed the Thalavan theme song at a different point within the film. The key antagonist gets a meaty arc and a well-established motive, though I wish Jis had exhibited greater finesse in the final reveal. From a writing standpoint, there are several decoys thrown at us. If you're a longtime thriller buff, you should be able to distinguish between an actual lead and a decoy without much fuss. Though this isn't a film with a lot of guns and fist-fights, they could've still done a better job with the stunts. Nonetheless, with all its flaws, the film is worth a watch on the big screen.

The film Thalavan is a cinematic work belonging to the investigation crime thriller drama genres, and was directed by Jis Joy.

The film's narrative is characterised by the recounting of experiences by a retired Dysp in the context of a television programme. He provided a detailed account of a particularly noteworthy incident from his career as a police officer. The incident occurred within the precincts of Cheppanamthotta station, wherein the CI charge was held by Jayashankar and the SI charge was held by Karthik. The relationship between these two police officers is not a positive one. The relationship is characterised by a dynamic interplay of ego dynamics. The relationship is deteriorating on a daily basis. Subsequently, a corpse was discovered in Jayashankar's residence, resulting in his apprehension on suspicion of murder. Karthik was assigned the investigation. Following the granting of bail on health grounds, Jayashankar was permitted to leave prison for a limited period. The two individuals commenced their investigation into the murder, each pursuing a distinct approach in their quest to unravel the enigma. The subsequent investigation revealed that a person named Sijo was in some way connected to the murder. However, Sijo was murdered by an unknown assailant, and both Jayashankar and Karthik were implicated in the crime. However, the subjects in question did indeed abscond, and conducted a well-structured investigation in a collective manner. This information prompts them to seek out Jayashankar's former colleague, who is driven by a desire for retribution for his son's death. It is the contention of the aforementioned individual that Jayashankar was the primary cause of his son's demise.

The narrative was of a high standard, with unexpected plot twists and a commendable direction. The performances are of a commendable standard, particularly those of the protagonists and the antagonist. Furthermore, the musical scores are of a high quality. The film is valuable for a repeated watching and recommendation.

Asif Ali is superb here as a thoughtful, intelligent, introspective Kerala cop who can also have recourse to his fists and sharp retorts to protect himself if necessary. When tasked with solving a murder case he leaves no stone unturned and follows up even the smallest of leads in order to identify the assassin. This fascinating, intelligent film throws out plenty of red herrings, thus sustaining the viewer's interest. In a final twist very similar to classic British detective films, the motive for the killing is revealed to be an historic personal tragedy of immeasurable proportions. Biju Menon also performs well here, and the device of including the narrator for the television crime show and the mad novelist/dramatist add extra narrative voices that strengthen the overall story. Definitely one to watch.

Retired DYSP Udayabhanu narrates the Cheppanamthotta case for a tv series, after being compelled by the reporter. It was a sensational case as it involved CI Jayashankar as the prime accused in the murder of a woman and his subordinate SI Karthik was made the investigation officer. With all the evidences directly pointing at Jayashankar, it is upto Karthik who actually has a rocky work relationship with Jayashankar to be neutral in order to solve the case. In the meantime, Jayashankar gets out on bail to parallely investigate the case. What do the duo reveal in their follow up, forms rest of the story.

Thalavan is indeed a captivating thriller and the investigative procedural has a neat screenplay. The first half starts with introduction of the two main characters and establishes their conflict. The murder is revealed only after this and the director succeeds in maintaining the suspense with Jayashankar getting arrested. It is pretty much an intense first half without any deviation. The second half is where the drama shifts gear with the conspiracy angle setting in and despite their differences, both Jayashankar and Karthik are made to work together. The reveal however did feel stretched too far but then that comes down to the expectations I had, after the first half. I still find it as a compelling watch due to the performances and the entire investigation segment till the third act.

Are Indian films simply trying to experiment with what others are doing? Is this acceptable? Several films have been made on Serial Killing. Today's Indian films claim depicting real criminal activities in India. Films can never be about depicting reality. Why will one watch films for reality? Why wouldn't one prioritize newspapers and electronic media? In fact, a writer throwing away creativity and narrating a so-called true story to make a film for sensation is nothing but intellectual bankruptcy. Narrating something as reported can never be a film script. So called crime thrillers may be liked by those who have crime fantasy. But such films suffer from same ailment as far as storyline is concerned.

The cat and mouse race between criminal and police has already lost appeal. This is mainly because the film makers seem to take crime for granted as the only theme to ensure success. But such concept of success is wrong one. If Indian film makers like their films to be relevant for the time being, then it is alright. If today's Indian cinema thinks, this will help them making films realistic, this can never happen. What will Indian films do if crime theme fails to impact the audience? This is bound to happen because of repeated use of same theme.

Here in such film character building can never happen. Viewers have nothing to do with the calibers of actors. Some actors can play certain roles and some can others. But intoxication to present the evil is so pre-dominant among the actors and actresses today, they hardly think about whether they can do justice in presenting a negative role. This means the existing trend of Indian films are making the performers stereotypical. If one does not recognize that he or she has become type character, what can be more unfortunate?

Question is prejudice of modernity as per the perception of Indian cinema today. Crime, military, fantasy, unnecessary addition of erotic elements, rampant use of abusive language, using English in every 4th line of dialogue and such others become the criteria of modernity, there is nothing to say. If film demands such things, these can be included. But how can all the characters speak same language in a film? Why are mostly 18+ and 16+ movies coming? Why can't today's film makers make films to impress audience of every age? This is not modernity but the illusion of modernity. These attributes can never help films to attain larger relevance and elevate the standard of Indian cinema. Indian cinema has many potential actors and actresses today. There are some who dare to experiment. Still then, if films depend on erotic elements and abusive language for viewership, this exposes creative and intellectual bankruptcy. The film-makers and actors must think out-of-box to elevate Indian cinema. This can happen if they stop following Hollywood. Hollywood can never be the role model. Making films following Hollywood or Korea can bring no good to Indian films. The important point is indigenous approach. But will the film-makers think so? They may or may not. But , closing eyes do not mean it is only dark around. Rests are awaited.

A very neat investigation thriller that is able to be well made with nuanced while being pretty commercial. What I loved the most about the movie other than the perfect pacing of this movie is the theme that all policemen start thinking like criminals. That could raise a lot of questions but it is truly a way of thinking that would help understand and help police in general too. The way the film starts with a "Charithram Enniloode" style show and how the main story is started may not seem the best way to start the movie at first, but it works out great later. The way the film was able to move through so many characters while slowly revealing the small connections throughout was really fun to watch. The intensity brought out by the actors helped a lot too, the acting was really great across the board. The way the movie ended would've made me think they were setting up an unnecessary sequel if they hadn't started the movie they did. Because of how it began and was set up before the actual story began, it was convincing to me that there must be something more to the story even though seemingly everything was tied up. The song felt unnecessary and didn't feel like it matched with how the rest of the movie was going because it directly stood with that character at that point instead of being a spectator. There were a couple of scenes where the editing seemed off, maybe they didn't shoot it keeping the 180 rule, I just noticed that the editing seemed jarring for no reason in those scenes. But these small issues didn't really affect my enjoyment of the film. It's the better investigation movie of the year in Malayalam and I'd be interested in the sequel.

Thalavan (The Chief) Malayalam Movie Review

A mind-blowing crime thriller backed by solid performances of the two lead artists.

Directed by Jis Joy starring Biju Menon & Asif Ali in lead roles.

From feel good to crime thriller, director Jis Joy proved that he could well conceive a thriller movie too.

Talking about the technical aspects, quality rich cinematography from Sharan Velayudhan. Deepak Dev's BGM blends with the mood of the movie.

After Ayyappanum Koshiyum, another tough performance from ASIF - BIJU MENON combo.

Well penned screenplay enough to create an ambience of suspense till the end.

Overall, a must watchable theatrical experience.

I recently seen this movie on Sony liv app...movie is crime investigation thirller....like typical Malayalam movie film start with slow pace and goes into investigation mode...story is simple yet delivered in twisted manner.. screenplay is good ...very convincing performance by lead actors... overall decent enough for thriller.... life style of police officer is displayed beautifully.. routine investigation is also portrayed like real life incident.. negetive part is length of movie which I feel should be 30 minutes shorter...even climax is ok and motive of villan is not good enough..despite this movie is still enjoyable..

This movie is excellent thriller movie. Gripping and Engaging. The plot twists are genuinely surprising, and the climax is satisfying. Its compelling narrative, stellar performances, and striking visual.

The lead actors Asif Ali and Biju Menon did their role perfectly. This investigation thriller will make you guessing until climax scene. If you are a fan of investigation thriller movies it will not disappoint you.

In conclusion, "Thalavan" is a gripping police investigation thriller that stands out for its strong performances, meticulous direction, and compelling narrative. It offers a well-crafted blend of suspense and drama, ensuring that viewers are thoroughly engaged from start to finish.

Finally, Asif Ali made a great decision to act in a movie which has a solid story. I wouldn't say the same about the screenplay but the movie is superb and you won't notice the drawbacks due to the craft of the director- Jis Joy.

Biju Menon was great as usual and it's been a long time since we watched him in an 'housefull' theatre. The chemistry between Asid and Menon was great throughout and the production design was also aptly selected by the creators, making this movie unique in its own way.

The supporting actors were also superb. Kottayam Naseer has come a long way and I'm happy for him. Finally, he is getting some good and serious roles.

In fact, after watching Laapataa Ladies, I was still in the hangover when I sat down to watch this movie. And I must say I am totally impressed. More so the long list of the cast doesn't involve any so called super stars and yet it has pulled off. For me it is mainly the success of the script. Obviously, the direction and casting bag a lot of applause. These are two key areas that almost control the direction of a movie. And for this movie, the script, casting and direction, all these major aspects just jelled well. I would have given only a 7 on 10. But I am going for 8 for the aforesaid reasons. Also to make sure that movies such as these are not discouraged on the basis of ratings.

~ ' Thalavan' directed by Jis Joy starring Biju Menon and Asif Ali is an Investigation thriller done right. The plot of the film is interesting and keeps you engaged throughout the film. The performances were really good , the entire cast did well , really loved Jaffer Idukki's character , he was hilarious . However the real standouts were Asif Ali as Karthik who did a brillaint job , so happy to see him finally get a good character and a good film. Biju Menon just as always delivers a great performance. The background score of the film is another highlight which is done by Deepak Dev. The film has good frames aswell. As an thriller , it does what it is supposed to do that is to engage you and thrill you. Jis Joy has done a good job directing a crime thriller. Overall it's a good watch.

Well written investigation thriller ; good performances of all the actors , especially Asif Ali is fierce and Biju Menon also gave strong performance!

Script by newcomers Anand Thevarkkat & Sarath Perumbavoor with sharp direction by Jis Joy is the backbone of the movie with splendid BGM work by deepak dev, cinematography is nice and other technical department done a neat work !!!!

Solidly crafted twist and turns and engaging narration from thew start to a very good ending make Thalavan is must watch movie in theatre!

Go for this if you love good crime investigative Movies !!!

My rating 8.8.

Biju Menon and Asif Ali probably have the most bankable chemistry, even when they are at each other's throats. Thalavan works to a large extent, even with a messy second half, thanks to this duo.

Karthik (Asif Ali) joins as the SI at Chepannamthotta station, where CI Jayasankar (Biju Menon) is the SHO. They are both hot headed and get off on the wrong foot, and seem to be working at cross purposes throughout. The situation turns even more tense when Jayasankar is implicated in the murder of a goonda's wife and Karthik is put in charge of the investigation. The story and how the case is solved is narrated in flashback by DySP Udayan (Dileesh Pothen), who initially headed the tricky investigation.

The first half of the film, directed and co-scripted by Jis Joy, along with Sharath Perumbavoor and Anand Thevarkad, is straightforward and takes a total hold of you, with a couple of interesting red herrings. In the second half, however, the investigation takes a different turn and gets confusing with new suspects and situations added to the ones from the first half. Also, the climax seems to get overly dramatic and the flow gets a bit bumpy.

Despite keeping the typical cop demeanour, both the lead actors have amazing screen presence and are well-supported by side characters, be it Dileesh or the other cops, and even Miya and Anusree in smaller roles.

Jis Joy, who is veering away from his earlier lighthearted genre like Sunday Holiday and Vijay Superum Pournamiyum, has made a fairly engaging investigative thriller, but missed the opportunity to craft a super one.

Acting was good but the story is so average. Same flashback and revenge genre, combined with the concept of 'thrill'. I wish I hadn't wasted my 2 hour watching this overhyped loved. The whole movie felt like the writer wanted to create a 'thriller' but didn't know how to. So, the writer sticked up old Malayalam revenge stories into one movie called 'Thalavan'. I feel bad for the audience who will go through the whole movie experience to reach disappointment. In this modern era of successful Malayalam movies, 'Thalavan' is a shock from the past. SKIP this movie easily and you'll save 2 hours. Bad bad bad.

The film narrates the tale of two police officers, Jayashankar and Karthik who are posted at the same station but are not on the same page. Their lives take a serious turn when the body of a woman is found on the terrace of the former's house. This soon balloons into a sensational case due to the involvement of a police officer and there is a lot of pressure on the department to arrest the perpetrator. So, is Jayashankar being set up, or is he actually guilty? Was he having an affair with the dead woman? Why was she constantly in touch with him? Asif Ali and Biju Menon both deliver strong performances in the Malayalam thriller #Thalavan. Some more brutality would have definitely added value to the film. Rating 3/5.