The Malayalam film industry is currently celebrating the reunion of two of its most beloved stars, Mohanlal and Shobana, in the recently released movie Thudarum. Directed by Tharun Moorthy, this film marks Mohanlal's 360th cinematic venture and brings the iconic duo together on screen after a gap of nearly two decades. The movie hit theaters on April 25, 2025, and has been receiving positive reviews from critics and audiences alike.
Thudarum is a drama thriller, with a screenplay co-written by Tharun Moorthy and K. R. Sunil. M. Renjith produced the film under the banner of Rejaputhra Visual Media. Besides Mohanlal and Shobana, the film boasts a strong supporting cast including Prakash Varma, Farhaan Faasil, Maniyanpilla Raju, Binu Pappu, Irshad Ali, and others.
Mohanlal plays Shanmugham, also known as "Benz," a taxi driver with a deep affection for his black Ambassador car. Shobana portrays Lalitha, Shanmugham's wife. The story revolves around Shanmugham, a humble taxi driver in Ranni, Kerala, whose life takes an unexpected turn when his prized possession, his aging Ambassador car, is seized by the police. His attempts to get it back lead to unforeseen revelations. The film explores how far he will go to protect what he holds dear.
Critics have lauded Thudarum as a compelling revenge thriller, praising its technical aspects and the powerful performances of the lead actors. Mohanlal's portrayal of Shanmugham has been particularly appreciated, with many noting that the role allows him to showcase his acting prowess, reminiscent of his earlier, more grounded characters. Shobana's performance as Lalitha, Shanmugham's wife, has also been well-received, with her chemistry with Mohanlal adding depth to the emotional sequences.
Tharun Moorthy's direction has been commended for its realistic approach and ability to create a gripping narrative. The film's music, composed by Jakes Bejoy, and cinematography by Shaji Kumar, have also been highlighted as key elements that enhance the viewing experience.
The return of Mohanlal and Shobana as an on-screen pair has generated considerable excitement among fans. Their previous collaborations in films like Manichithrathazhu, Thenmavi Kombathu, and Mambazhakkalam are fondly remembered, and Thudarum marks their 56th film together.
Mohanlal has expressed his gratitude for the positive response to Thudarum, acknowledging the love and support from the audience. He also extended his appreciation to the entire cast and crew for their dedication and hard work in bringing the story to life.
While some critics have pointed out minor flaws in the film, such as the portrayal of police brutality and the limited scope of Shobana's role, the overall consensus is that Thudarum is a well-crafted film with strong emotional resonance. It is being hailed as a significant film in Mohanlal's career, showcasing his versatility as an actor and marking a welcome return to form.
