Detective Ujjwalan (2025) Malayalam movie review: Dhyan Sreenivasan, Siju Wilson, and Rony David Raj shine in this quirky mystery comedy directed by Rahul G. and Indraneel Gopalakrishnan. Read our full review, plot highlights, performances, and BMR rating.
Introduction
After the smashing success of Minnal Murali, Weekend Blockbusters returns with the second installment in their newly-formed Weekend Cinematic Universe—Detective Ujjwalan. Directed by Rahul G. and Indraneel Gopalakrishnan, this 2025 Malayalam-language mystery comedy brings together humor, suspense, and local charm in equal measure. With Dhyan Sreenivasan, Siju Wilson, and Rony David Raj leading the pack, the film attempts to blend the spirit of a small-town detective story with light-hearted quirkiness.
Let’s break down how well Detective Ujjwalan holds its ground in this genre mash-up.
Plot Summary (Spoiler-Free)
Set in the scenic locales of Palakkad, Detective Ujjwalan follows the eccentric and self-proclaimed detective Ujjwalan (Dhyan Sreenivasan), who’s roped in to investigate a peculiar murder that shakes up the sleepy town of Kollengode. With the reluctant help of a cynical cop (Siju Wilson) and a nosy journalist (Rony David Raj), Ujjwalan dives into a rabbit hole of clues, red herrings, and misadventures.
While the crime at the center of the narrative is serious, the film leans heavily into comedy, often poking fun at detective tropes while still maintaining a sense of intrigue. The mystery unfolds with twists and turns, though the focus remains largely on the characters and their interactions.
Performances
Dhyan Sreenivasan is the soul of the film. His portrayal of Ujjwalan is a delightful mix of naïveté and eccentric genius. The character might remind audiences of a desi Inspector Clouseau, but Dhyan adds his own flair to the role, making Ujjwalan both lovable and unpredictable.
Siju Wilson, playing a jaded police officer with little patience for Ujjwalan’s antics, provides a strong counterbalance. His dry wit and straight-faced delivery make for excellent comic timing, especially during their back-and-forth banter.
Rony David Raj is impressive as the meddling journalist who smells a bigger story. His character adds another layer of humor and also plays a vital role in the narrative progression.
The chemistry among the trio forms the heart of the film, elevating even the slower moments.
Direction and Screenplay
Directors Rahul G. and Indraneel Gopalakrishnan deserve credit for crafting a genre-blending narrative that never takes itself too seriously. Their screenplay is sharp, peppered with witty dialogue and clever visual cues that reward attentive viewers. While some portions in the second half could’ve used tighter pacing, the film never loses its quirky charm.
Music and Technical Aspects
The music by Rzee adds a vibrant flavor to the film. The background score, in particular, is playful and atmospheric, amplifying the comedic and suspenseful moments alike. The songs are well-placed and do not interrupt the flow of the narrative.
Cinematographers Premkrishna Akkattu and Sraiyanti Harichandran beautifully capture the lush landscapes of Palakkad. The rustic charm of Kollengode, Nenmara, and Shoranur adds authenticity to the film’s tone. Chaman Chacko’s editing is crisp for the most part, though a few scenes in the latter half could have been trimmed for better momentum.
Strengths
- Unique Genre Blend: Successfully fuses mystery and comedy, a rare mix in Indian cinema.
- Strong Characterization: Memorable and well-etched protagonists.
- Humor: Witty dialogues and visual gags keep the audience engaged.
- Visual Appeal: Excellent use of Kerala’s rural landscape.
Weaknesses
- Pacing Issues: The second half slightly loses steam.
- Limited Emotional Depth: The film doesn’t delve deeply into the emotional core of its characters, which might leave some viewers wanting more.
Verdict
Detective Ujjwalan is not your typical detective story. It’s a celebration of eccentricity, friendship, and small-town flavor, all wrapped in a mystery that keeps you guessing without getting too dark. It may not have the punch of a full-blown thriller or the emotional heft of a drama, but it delivers exactly what it promises—a fun, refreshing ride through crime and comedy.
For fans of light-hearted mysteries and Malayalam cinema with a twist, this is a must-watch.
Best Movie Review (BMR) Rating:
7.5/10
A clever and comical addition to the Weekend Cinematic Universe that balances mystery with mirth, Detective Ujjwalan is a breezy entertainer worth your weekend time.