Narivetta, the latest Malayalam action drama starring Tovino Thomas, hit theatres recently and has been receiving praise for its intense theme and powerful performances. Directed by Anuraj Manohar and written by Abin Joseph, the film is inspired by the real-life 2003 Muthanga Incident in Kerala.
Set against the backdrop of tribal protests and state violence, Narivetta explores the relationship between the police force, politics, and the common man. The movie also marks Tamil actor Cheran’s debut in Malayalam cinema, alongside a solid performance from Suraj Venjaramoodu. With rave reviews coming in for its performances and emotional weight, many fans are now waiting to know when Narivetta will stream on OTT platforms.
Movie Review (Quick Take)
Narivetta is a gritty, emotional film that may start off slow, but gradually builds into a powerful drama about conscience and justice. Tovino Thomas delivers a strong performance, portraying a flawed but evolving character. The first half is slightly stretched due to the romantic subplot, but the second half hits hard, especially during the protest sequences. The film is not perfect, but it’s a brave attempt at tackling uncomfortable truths. It’s a story that stays with you.
Narivetta: Plot and Performances
Set in Wayanad, Narivetta follows Varghese Peter (Tovino Thomas), a stubborn youth who is forced to join the police force. He’s mentored by the kind and experienced Officer Bashir Ahmed (Suraj Venjaramoodu), who plays a key role in shaping Varghese’s moral compass. The story kicks into high gear when a tribal protest escalates, and Officer Bashir disappears during the operation. As Varghese begins his personal search, he uncovers uncomfortable truths about the system he’s become a part of.
What makes Narivetta stand out is its emotional depth. It doesn't just focus on the action or the politics, but also on the human relationships, particularly the bond between Varghese and Bashir. While there are minor shortcomings in the structure and editing, the performances and the core message shine through. Tovino brings in layered emotions, while Suraj is calm and grounded in his role. Cheran’s role as DIG Keshavadas, though limited, adds another dimension to the power dynamics in the film.
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Social Message and Impact
Narivetta doesn’t just tell a story; it raises questions. Inspired by real events, it exposes how institutions often fail those they are meant to protect. The film doesn’t romanticize the police or the protestors—it instead presents a realistic, balanced narrative. The climax, though slightly rushed, leaves an emotional impact. Director Anuraj Manohar’s attempt to blend a personal journey with a larger socio-political message is commendable.
While some critics feel the film could have gone deeper into its themes or rearranged its scenes for better emotional pacing, the intent and performances make it a worthwhile watch. For fans of films like Viduthalai or Jai Bhim, this film sits comfortably in the same thematic space, even if it doesn’t quite hit as hard.
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OTT Release Details
Narivetta is currently running in theatres and has not yet released on any OTT platform. However, Malayalam films typically arrive on streaming platforms 30 to 60 days after their theatrical release. Based on this trend, Narivetta is expected to be available for streaming by July or August 2025.
OTT Platform: To be announced
- Expected OTT Release Date: Between July–August 2025
- Language: Malayalam (with English subtitles expected)
If you enjoy meaningful Malayalam dramas that go beyond entertainment, Narivetta is a must-watch. Stay tuned for the OTT release update, and don’t miss this intense story when it drops online.
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