Read our in-depth review of Irul(Apradhi) (2021), a Malayalam mystery thriller starring Fahadh Faasil, Soubin Shahir, and Darshana Rajendran. Streaming on Netflix, this 91-minute film delivers suspense, darkness, and psychological tension in a confined setting.
Introduction: A Dark, Confined Thriller on Netflix
Irul (transl. Darkness) is a 2021 Malayalam-language mystery horror film directed by Naseef Yusuf Izuddin in his directorial debut. Backed by Anto Joseph Film Company and Plan J Studios, the film stars powerhouse performers Fahadh Faasil, Soubin Shahir, and Darshana Rajendran in a tense, three-character thriller. Released on Netflix on 2 April 2021, Irul offers a gripping, atmospheric experience, unfolding mostly within a single house on a rainy night.
With a minimalist cast and location, the film relies heavily on suspense, sharp dialogues, and the performances of its leads. But does it deliver a truly satisfying psychological thriller experience? Let’s break it down.
Plot Summary (Spoiler-Free)
The story follows a couple, Alex (Soubin Shahir) and Archana (Darshana Rajendran), who decide to take a break from their digital lives and go on an impromptu trip. Their getaway takes a dark turn when their car breaks down in a storm and they seek shelter in an isolated house. Inside, they encounter a mysterious man (Fahadh Faasil), and what starts as an awkward interaction quickly spirals into a dangerous game of suspicion and survival.
The tension builds as one of them claims to be a killer inspired by a novel. But who is telling the truth? Who is the real villain? As the night progresses, the lines between reality and deception blur, leading to a shocking conclusion.
Performances: Power-Packed Acting in a Confined Space
- Fahadh Faasil steals the show yet again with his intense and layered performance. His expressions, voice modulation, and subtle menace elevate the film’s suspense.
- Soubin Shahir, known for his comedic and emotional roles, delivers a surprisingly serious and intense performance, showcasing his range as an actor.
- Darshana Rajendran adds emotional depth and vulnerability, serving as the audience’s lens into the twisted events of the night.
The trio’s chemistry and dialogue exchanges keep the viewer on edge throughout the 91-minute runtime.
Direction & Screenplay: A Promising Debut with Some Flaws
Naseef Yusuf Izuddin makes a confident directorial debut with Irul, choosing a daring format — minimal characters, single location, and a plot driven almost entirely by dialogue and tension. The first half is especially strong, creating an eerie atmosphere and engaging the audience with mysterious buildup.
However, the second half does suffer from minor pacing issues. Some twists feel slightly forced, and certain dialogues are overly expository. Still, the film maintains enough intrigue to keep you hooked till the end.
Cinematography, Music & Technical Aspects
- Cinematography by Jomon T. John is one of the film’s highlights. The play of shadows, candlelight, and rain-drenched visuals contributes immensely to the film’s claustrophobic and unsettling mood.
- Editing by Shameer Muhammed is sharp, although a tighter cut in the latter half could have elevated the impact.
- Music by Sreerag Saji complements the thriller tone, using minimal background score to amplify suspense rather than overwhelm it.
Themes & Symbolism
Irul explores themes like trust, deception, obsession with crime literature, and the darkness within human nature. The title itself is symbolic — not just representing the physical darkness of the night, but also the emotional and psychological ambiguity between the characters.
Audience Reaction & Reception
Upon release, Irul received mixed to positive reviews. While some praised its experimental style, strong performances, and suspenseful first half, others criticized its somewhat predictable climax and lack of deeper emotional connection. For fans of minimalist thrillers and psychological mysteries, Irul offers a refreshing change from mainstream formats.
Final Verdict
Irul is a compact, intense, and atmospheric thriller that thrives on performances and mood rather than action or gore. It may not satisfy everyone expecting high-octane horror, but for viewers who enjoy cerebral, dialogue-heavy mysteries, this film delivers a worthwhile experience.
It’s a bold attempt in Malayalam cinema, and despite some flaws, it stands out for its unique execution and gripping storytelling.
Best Movie Review(BMR) Rating: 7.5/10