Iratta (2023) – Movie Review
Genre: Crime Thriller
Language: Malayalam
Director & Writer: Rohit M. G. Krishnan
Starring: Joju George (dual roles), Anjali, Arya Salim, Srikant Murali
Music: Jakes Bejoy
Runtime: 111 minutes
Release Date: February 3, 2023
Country: India
Introduction
Iratta (transl. “Twin”) is not your typical whodunit. Directed and written by Rohit M. G. Krishnan, this Malayalam-language crime thriller stands out with its emotionally intense storytelling and stunning performance by Joju George in dual roles. With a backdrop of police corruption, sibling rivalry, and psychological trauma, Iratta delivers a hard-hitting narrative that blends investigation with human tragedy.
Plot Summary
Set in the misty hills of Vagamon, the story kicks off with the mysterious death of a police officer, ASI Vinod, inside the police station during duty hours. The cause is unclear, and a full-scale investigation is launched. The case gains complexity when Vinod’s estranged twin brother, DySP Pramod (also played by Joju George), arrives to lead the investigation.
As the narrative unfolds, layers of past trauma, abuse, and sibling conflict begin to surface. The film transitions between past and present, revealing the troubled childhood of the twin brothers, marked by an abusive father and a fractured family dynamic. Pramod’s professional integrity stands in stark contrast to Vinod’s deeply flawed, corrupt lifestyle.
The climax delivers a heart-wrenching revelation, forcing the audience to reflect on themes of guilt, redemption, and fate. It’s not just about finding the killer—it’s about confronting buried pain and the tragedy of lost time.
Performances
Joju George steals the show with a commanding dual performance. His portrayal of the two brothers—one a morally upright officer, the other a morally decayed man—feels authentic and powerfully distinct. He effortlessly switches between restrained emotion and explosive vulnerability, especially in scenes that reflect inner turmoil and regret.
Anjali plays her role with subtle strength, adding emotional depth without overshadowing the core plot. Arya Salim and Srikant Murali contribute effectively in supporting roles, keeping the narrative grounded and impactful.
Direction & Writing
Debut director Rohit M. G. Krishnan delivers a well-crafted script that avoids overused tropes of the genre. His storytelling balances the procedural elements of a police investigation with emotionally rich character development. The use of non-linear narration keeps the mystery alive while slowly peeling back the trauma that haunts the protagonists.
What truly sets Iratta apart is its sensitive handling of childhood abuse, alcoholism, and the long-term psychological scars they leave. It’s not just a thriller—it’s a commentary on how the environment shapes us and how unresolved pain can lead to irreversible outcomes.
Cinematography & Editing
Cinematographer Vijay captures the haunting beauty of Vagamon with moody visuals that perfectly match the film’s grim tone. The interiors of the police station, often dark and confined, reflect the psychological entrapment of the characters. The use of shadows, tight frames, and long takes add to the film’s intense atmosphere.
Editing by Manu Antony is crisp, especially in sequences that transition between timelines. The non-linear cuts are fluid and never confusing, which is crucial in a story where time plays such an essential role.
Music & Sound Design
Jakes Bejoy’s music adds emotional weight without overwhelming the narrative. The background score complements the tension and psychological drama, while moments of silence are used effectively to intensify dramatic impact. The sound design subtly enhances the atmosphere, particularly in key confrontational scenes.
Themes & Highlights
- Duality of human nature: The twin brothers represent two paths—one shaped by trauma and resilience, the other by bitterness and self-destruction.
- Impact of childhood trauma: A strong focus on how abusive parenting can scar a person permanently.
- Emotional storytelling in a crime format: Unlike typical thrillers, Iratta places as much emphasis on internal battles as it does on external conflict.
- Shocking climax: The final twist is not only unexpected but also deeply emotional, redefining the narrative in retrospect.
Flaws
- The pacing in the first half could feel a bit slow for viewers expecting a fast-moving crime thriller.
- Some viewers might find the emotional depth overwhelming, especially if they expect a more conventional police procedural.
Conclusion
Iratta is a rare Malayalam thriller that successfully blends emotional storytelling with crime investigation. With a career-defining performance by Joju George and a poignant narrative that examines familial bonds, trauma, and redemption, the film leaves a lasting impression.
Rohit M. G. Krishnan’s directorial debut is bold, thoughtful, and haunting. This is not just a story about who committed a crime—it’s about why it happened and the damage that silence and resentment can do over time.
Best Movie Review (BMR) Rating: 8/10
Verdict: Iratta is a haunting psychological thriller elevated by Joju George’s powerful performance. A must-watch for fans of emotional crime dramas and Malayalam cinema.