On July 11, 2025, Malayalam cinema’s hard-hitting action drama Narivetta (transl. Jackal Hunt) makes its much-anticipated digital debut on SonyLIV, bringing Tovino Thomas’s intense performance to global audiences. Directed by Anuraj Manohar and inspired by the 2003 Muthanga Incident, the film has already left an indelible mark during its theatrical run, earning ₹30 crore against a modest ₹10 crore budget and garnering praise for its raw portrayal of systemic injustice. As a journalist, I’ll delve into the film’s gripping narrative, standout performances, and cultural significance, while exploring why its SonyLIV premiere is a milestone for fans and a testament to Malayalam cinema’s growing OTT influence.
A Tale Rooted in Reality
Narivetta, written by Sahitya Akademi awardee Abin Joseph, is set against the backdrop of the 2003 Muthanga tribal protest in Wayanad, Kerala, where Adivasi communities clashed with police over delayed land allocations. The film follows CPO Varghese (Tovino Thomas), a 28-year-old policeman grappling with personal disillusionment and professional duty. Posted to a volatile tribal region, Varghese navigates a moral quagmire as state-sanctioned violence escalates, forcing him to confront the brutalities of power structures and his own role within them. The narrative weaves a fictionalized yet unflinching critique of institutional oppression, spotlighting the Adivasi struggle for dignity and land rights.
The film’s authenticity stems from Manohar’s meticulous research into the Muthanga Incident, ensuring a grounded portrayal of a dark chapter in Kerala’s history. Shot across Alappuzha, Kottayam, and Wayanad in just 65 days, Narivetta captures the lush yet tense landscapes through Vijay’s gritty cinematography, complemented by Jakes Bejoy’s haunting score. The song Minnal Vala, penned by Kaithapram Damodaran Namboothiri, became a statewide hit, amplifying the film’s emotional resonance.
Stellar Performances and Technical Brilliance
Tovino Thomas delivers a career-defining performance as Varghese, balancing vulnerability and intensity as a cop torn between duty and conscience. Critics have lauded his portrayal, with posts on X calling it his “most haunting” role yet, particularly in a single-shot fight sequence filmed in pouring rain without a stunt double. Suraj Venjaramoodu shines as Officer Bashir Ahmed, a mentor figure whose moral conflicts add depth to the narrative. Tamil director-actor Cheran makes an impactful Malayalam debut as a pragmatic senior officer, though some reviews note his casting feels slightly mismatched. Priyamvada Krishnan, as Varghese’s love interest Nancy, brings nuance to a role that could have been sidelined, while Arya Salim’s portrayal of C.K. Shanthi, inspired by real-life activist C.K. Jaanu, adds emotional weight to the Adivasi perspective.
The film’s technical execution has drawn widespread acclaim. The Indian Express praised its “triggering reminder of systemic tension,” highlighting the sharp editing by Shameer Muhammed and Muhammad Sanoober. The Times of India rated it 3.5/5, commending its “brave, bold attempt” to provoke discomfort, though noting occasional narrative muddiness. Jakes Bejoy’s score, paired with Sony Music India’s backing, elevates the film’s suspenseful and emotional beats, making it a cinematic experience that lingers.
A Box Office Triumph and OTT Buzz
Released in theaters on May 23, 2025, Narivetta defied expectations, grossing ₹5.2 crore in its opening weekend in Kerala alone, with occupancy rates soaring to 51.71% on its first Sunday. Despite competition from films like Dhyan Sreenivasan’s Detective Ujjwalan and Dileep’s Prince and Family, it sustained an eight-week run, tripling its ₹10 crore budget. Strong word-of-mouth and standing ovations, as shared by Tovino on Instagram, fueled its success, though its reach remained largely confined to Kerala.
SonyLIV’s acquisition of Narivetta’s streaming rights, announced via Instagram with the tagline “Echoes of truth, shadows of injustice,” has generated significant buzz. The platform’s decision to release the film on July 11, just seven weeks after its theatrical debut, reflects its confidence in the film’s appeal. Available in Malayalam with subtitles in Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, and English, Narivetta aims to reach a pan-Indian and global audience. Some sources, like cinesparsh.com, initially speculated a Netflix release on June 20, but SonyLIV’s confirmation has clarified the timeline, aligning with its strategy to bolster its Malayalam catalog alongside titles like Alappuzha Gymkhana and Pravinkoodu Shappu.
Critical Reception and Narrative Critique
Narivetta has earned a 7.0/10 IMDb rating, with critics praising its bold themes and technical prowess. Hindustan Times called it a “hard-hitting drama that makes audiences question the system,” while THE WEEK noted its emotional impact, with one reviewer admitting to tears during a poignant climax. However, some critiques highlight flaws: the Times of India pointed to a “muddled” script lacking the emotional depth of similar films like Nayattu, and IMDb reviews criticized unnecessary subplots, including a “cringe-worthy” love story that dilutes the core narrative. Others argue that centering Varghese, a policeman, rather than an Adivasi protagonist, misses an opportunity for authentic representation.
Despite these critiques, Narivetta’s unflinching portrayal of police brutality and systemic injustice resonates deeply, especially in today’s socio-political climate. Its focus on marginalized voices and state accountability makes it a timely addition to SonyLIV’s lineup, sparking conversations about power and morality.
Why the SonyLIV Release Matters
The July 11 premiere marks a milestone for Malayalam cinema’s growing global reach via OTT platforms. SonyLIV’s investment in regional content, coupled with Narivetta’s availability in multiple languages, positions it to transcend Kerala’s borders, unlike its theatrical run. The film’s digital debut also underscores Tovino Thomas’s rising stardom, with X users calling him a “phenomenal” force in South Indian cinema. His choice of content-driven roles, from Lucifer to ARM, continues to elevate Malayalam films on the national stage.
For viewers, Narivetta offers a gripping 2-hour-18-minute experience that blends action, drama, and social commentary. Its subscription-based access on SonyLIV ensures accessibility for those who missed its theatrical run, while its multi-language subtitles broaden its appeal. The film’s success also highlights the growing synergy between theatrical and OTT releases, with SonyLIV capitalizing on Narivetta’s critical and commercial acclaim to attract subscribers.
Looking Ahead
Narivetta’s SonyLIV debut on July 11, 2025, is more than a streaming event—it’s a testament to Malayalam cinema’s ability to tackle complex issues with emotional and cinematic heft. While not without flaws, the film’s powerful performances, evocative score, and bold critique of systemic violence make it a must-watch. As Tovino Thomas continues to push boundaries and Anuraj Manohar cements his reputation post-Ishq, Narivetta stands as a beacon of socially relevant storytelling. Whether you’re a fan of intense thrillers or narratives that challenge the status quo, mark your calendars for July 11 and prepare to be moved by this unflinching tale of truth and injustice.
Last Updated on Thursday, July 10, 2025 7:57 pm by Munnuru Sai Karthik
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