Narivetta (2025) Movie Bollyflix
Narivetta, released in May 2025, is a Malayalam political action drama directed by Anuraj Manohar and written by Abin Joseph. The film stars Tovino Thomas in the lead role, with strong support from Suraj Venjaramoodu and Cheran, a popular Tamil actor who makes his Malayalam debut in this film. The movie is produced by Tippu Shaan and Shiyas Hassan under the Indian Cinema Company banner.
| Film Name | Narivetta |
| Genre(s) | Drama, Action |
| Starring Cast | Cheran, Tovino Thomas, Suraj Venjaramoodu |
| Directed By | Anuraj Manohar |
| Release | 16 May 2025 |
| Film Duration | 2h 18m |
| Production Banner | Indian Cinema Company |
| IMDb Score | 7/10 star |
| Main Lead | Tovino Thomas |
Set against the historical backdrop of the 2003 Muthanga tribal protest, the film dives deep into themes of oppression, resistance, and justice. It presents a gripping narrative that combines real-life events with fictional storytelling to highlight the struggles of the marginalized tribal communities in Kerala.
Narivetta Cast Names
| Cast | Character |
|---|---|
| Pranav Teophine | |
| Arya Salim | |
| Shahi Kabir | |
| Srikant Murali | |
| Cheran | R. Keshavadas |
| Suraj Venjaramoodu | Basheer Ahammed |
| Tovino Thomas | Varghese Peter |
| Nandhu | |
| Rini Udayakumar | |
| Priyamvada Krishna |
Plot Overview
Narivetta tells the story of Varghese Peter (played by Tovino Thomas), a Kerala Police constable who finds himself caught between his duty and his growing conscience during a government crackdown on tribal protests in Wayanad. As the tribal communities fight for their land rights, Varghese begins to question his role in the system.
Inspired by true events, the movie brings to light the internal conflicts faced by those on both sides of the protest — the oppressed and the enforcers. It effectively explores how power, politics, and morality clash during moments of civil unrest.
Cast Performances
Tovino Thomas gives one of his most intense and emotional performances as Varghese Peter. He captures the turmoil of a man torn between his duty and his ethics.
Suraj Venjaramoodu, as Head Constable Basheer Ahammed, adds depth to the film with a balanced and grounded performance. Cheran, making his debut in Malayalam cinema as DIG R. Keshavadas IPS, brings a commanding presence and plays a pivotal role in pushing the narrative forward.
Arya Salim and Priyamvada Krishnan also stand out, portraying characters that reflect the activist spirit and marginalized voices that fuel the movement at the center of the film.
Direction and Technical Aspects
Anuraj Manohar delivers a well-balanced direction that merges political drama with personal conflict. His storytelling maintains a strong focus on social issues without losing grip on the characters’ emotional journeys.
The screenplay by Abin Joseph is tight and focused, highlighting the complexities of state power and individual morality. The cinematography by Vijay beautifully contrasts the serenity of Wayanad’s forests with the tension of protests and police action. Shameer Muhammed’s editing ensures that the pace remains steady throughout.
Music and Soundtrack
The music, composed by Jakes Bejoy, adds emotional value to the story. The song “Minnalvala”, sung by Sid Sriram and Sithara Krishnakumar, has become a favorite among audiences. Its melancholic melody and soulful lyrics help set the tone during key emotional moments in the film.
Critical Reception
Narivetta received positive reviews from critics. Most praised its bold themes, direction, and performances, especially that of Tovino Thomas.
- The Times of India rated it 3.5 out of 5, calling it a brave attempt with a powerful message.
- The Indian Express appreciated the technical execution and the realistic portrayal of tribal-police conflicts.
- Hindustan Times highlighted the film’s intensity and thought-provoking content, saying it delivers a necessary discomfort for audiences to reflect on.
Audience Response
The public response has been overwhelmingly emotional. Many viewers praised the film for making them reflect on real-life issues. Tovino Thomas even shared a video of people reacting emotionally after watching the film, showcasing its deep impact.
On social media, the film is being described as a must-watch, especially for those who appreciate socially relevant cinema.
Box Office Performance
Narivetta had a decent opening and gained momentum quickly due to positive word of mouth. It collected around ₹1.75 crore on day one and reached ₹15 crore globally in just three days.
This performance not only reflects its commercial success but also shows how audiences are embracing films with serious themes and strong messages.
Strengths and Areas for Improvement
What We Liked:
- Tovino Thomas’s performance is absolutely gripping and forms the heart of the film.
- Strong supporting cast, including Suraj and Cheran.
- Direction and screenplay effectively handle a heavy subject with care.
- Cinematography and editing are of top quality.
- Soundtrack, especially “Minnalvala,” adds emotional weight.
What Could Be Better:
- The film could have delved deeper into characters’ emotional journeys for stronger impact.
- Some parts of the narrative could benefit from tighter pacing.
Conclusion
Narivetta is not just a film; it’s a reflection of real issues and a reminder of our social responsibilities. With powerful performances, a strong script, and meaningful direction, the movie stands out in 2025 as a must-watch Malayalam drama.
While not perfect, it delivers its message with heart and conviction, making it a valuable addition to Indian cinema. If you’re looking for a film that challenges the system, moves you emotionally, and leaves you thinking, then Narivetta should be on your watchlist.
