Movie Name: Rekhachithram
Release Date: March 07, 2025
123telugu.com Rating: 3.25/5
Starring: Asif Ali, Mammootty (AI), Anaswara Rajan, Manoj K Jayan, Zarin Shihab, Siddique, and others
Director: Jofin T Chacko
Producers: Venu Kunnappilly
Music Director: Mujeeb Majeed
Cinematographer: Appu Prabhakar
Editors: Shameer Muhammad
Related Links: Trailer
Rekhachithram is the latest Malayalam murder mystery thriller that has made waves, premiering on the Sony LIV OTT platform and receiving a theatrical release during the Pongal festive season. Directed by Jofin T Chacko, the film stars Asif Ali, Anaswara Rajan, Manoj K. Jayan, and even features a cameo by the legendary Mammootty through AI technology. The film became a major box-office success, grossing over Rs 50 crores. Here’s how it fares in terms of story, performances, and technical elements.
Story:
Vivek (Asif Ali), a Kerala police officer previously suspended for his betting activities, is reinstated to solve a cold case involving the murder of a young woman. The case, which has remained unsolved for nearly 40 years, gains attention when an elderly man named Rajendran (Siddique) confesses to the crime on a Facebook Live video. He claims to have killed Rekha (Anaswara Rajan) with the help of Vincent (Manoj K Jayan) and two others during the filming of the iconic 1985 movie Kathodu Kathoram. As Vivek delves deeper into this mystery, the movie explores whether he can uncover the truth behind the crime that occurred so many years ago.
Plus Points:
Rekhachithram impresses with its compelling storytelling. The blend of a gripping murder mystery with well-developed characters and nuances makes for a captivating watch. Director Jofin T Chacko takes his time to unfold the mystery, skillfully adding twists and turns to keep the audience engaged.
Asif Ali delivers a solid and restrained performance, portraying Vivek’s determination and persistence while solving a case with minimal clues. His portrayal of a flawed police officer gives the film emotional depth. Anaswara Rajan, playing the aspiring actress Rekha, brings a sense of nostalgia to the movie with her emotional performance, perfectly capturing the essence of Malayalam cinema’s golden era.
The film’s homage to the Malayalam film industry through Rekha’s character, who is a die-hard fan of Mammootty, adds a layer of nostalgia. The AI-generated cameo of Mammootty, featured during the making of Kathodu Kathoram, is a unique and interesting addition that enhances the film’s connection to the golden age of Malayalam cinema.
Minus Points:
Despite the film’s strengths, Rekhachithram does have its drawbacks. The pacing, while deliberate, can be slow at times, which might alienate viewers who prefer fast-paced thrillers. The slow build-up, although effective for a slow-burn mystery, risks losing the attention of some audience members.
The film’s innovative narrative, which intertwines past and present timelines, may not appeal to everyone, especially those who prefer a more straightforward storytelling approach. While the nostalgia is potent, the pacing issues prevent the film from fully capitalizing on its potential.
Technical Aspects:
The screenplay, penned by John Manthrikal and Ramu Sunil, offers a fresh approach to the murder mystery genre, blending the present-day investigation with flashbacks to the 1980s. This mix of eras adds depth to the storytelling, making it stand out from other thrillers.
Cinematographer Appu Prabhakar excels in capturing the stark contrast between the nostalgic past and the modern present. The visuals add a distinctive flavor to the narrative, with the period setting of the 1980s and the modern-day scenes being beautifully juxtaposed. Editor Shameer Muhammed keeps the rhythm intact, ensuring the film maintains drama while cutting through the alternating timelines.
Mujeeb Majeed’s music complements the mystery, amplifying the suspense and drama, while also adding to the emotional depth of several key scenes.
Verdict:
Rekhachithram is a finely crafted whodunnit that succeeds in capturing the intrigue of solving a 40-year-old murder case set against the backdrop of a vintage film shoot. With strong performances, gripping twists, and technical brilliance, the film stands out in the murder mystery genre. However, its slow-paced narrative may not resonate with all audiences, especially those looking for a fast-paced thriller. Nevertheless, for fans of carefully crafted, slow-burn suspense, Rekhachithram is worth a watch.
Filmyjosh.com Rating: 3.25/5
Reviewed by filmyjosh Team