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🎬 Narivetta – Movie Review
Review By: SureshKumar V
Directed by: Anuraj Manohar
Written by: Abin Joseph
Cast: Tovino Thomas, Suraj Venjaramoodu, Cheran, Arya Salim, Pranav Teophine
Runtime: 137 mins
📝 Plot Summary:
Narivetta (Jackal Hunt) is a gripping tale of truth, justice, and transformation. At its heart is Varghese Peter (Tovino Thomas), a reluctant job-seeker who ends up in the police force, only to become a whistleblower when faced with the system’s brutalities. Set against the tribal uprising in Cheeyambam, Wayanad, the film highlights systemic injustice, political manipulation, and the silent strength of indigenous communities — all while exploring a man’s personal growth and moral awakening.
🎭 Performances:
Tovino Thomas impresses with a layered portrayal of Varghese — a character who matures from a naive youngster to a man burdened with conscience. Suraj Venjaramoodu is magnetic as Basheer Ahmed, bringing subtlety and wisdom to the screen. Tamil actor Cheran, in his Malayalam debut, makes a strong impact as the unpredictable R. Keshava Das. Arya Salim delivers a fiery performance as CK Shanti — the emotional and moral spine of the tribal resistance. Pranav Teophine adds raw emotion as Thami Adiyar. The casting is on point and each actor elevates the film’s emotional depth.
🎵 Music and 🎥 Cinematography:
Jakes Bejoy’s evocative background score perfectly complements the intensity and pathos of the narrative. The soundtrack, especially the song about land and dreams, lingers long after. Vijay’s cinematography beautifully contrasts the serenity of Kuttanad with the haunting forests of Wayanad. Editor Shameer Muhammed keeps the narrative engaging, especially in the second half where the pace picks up with urgency and tension.
🎬 Direction and Production:
Anuraj Manohar deserves praise for handling such a heavy, politically sensitive subject with nuance and clarity. Unlike many socially relevant films that feel preachy or documentary-like, Narivetta is cinematically rich, emotionally moving, and narratively powerful. Abin Joseph’s screenplay avoids melodrama and sticks to realism, making the injustices hit harder.
✅ Plus:
- Powerful performances, especially by Tovino, Arya Salim, and Suraj
- Emotionally resonant and politically relevant storyline
- Striking visuals and poignant music
- Grounded portrayal of tribal life and police procedures
- Honest, hard-hitting execution of a difficult narrative
❌ Minus:
- A slightly slow first half due to love story detours
- Some characters feel under-utilized amidst the chaos
- Police procedural elements might feel slightly stretched for some viewers
📝 Verdict:
Narivetta is not just a film — it’s a mirror held up to society, a question posed to power, and a voice for the voiceless. It’s bold, unflinching, and emotional. Director Anuraj Manohar crafts a sensitive and unsettling narrative that needed to be told, and he tells it with heart. If you care about meaningful cinema, Narivetta is not to be missed.
⭐ Rating: 4/5
A bold, moving film that strikes the heart and provokes the mind.
