By Debmitra Chatterjee
Udal is a gripping Malayalam thriller directed by Ratheesh Reghunandhan that offers a fresh perspective on the noir fiction genre. Set in the backdrop of a typical Malayalam household, the film stars Indrans, Durga Krishna, and Dhyan Sreenivasan in pivotal roles. The film’s unique approach to storytelling and character development sets it apart, making it a notable entry in Malayalam cinema.
The plot is centered around Shiny, a housewife and mother who finds herself trapped in a life of monotony and dissatisfaction at her father-in-law’s home. Indrans plays the father-in-law, Kuttichayan, an endearing character who becomes a central figure as the story unfolds.
Shiny’s desire for freedom and excitement leads her into an affair with her boyfriend, played by Dhyan Sreenivasan. The dynamics of this relationship and Shiny’s actions drive the narrative, leading to a series of unexpected and thrilling events.
The story unfolds during the COVID-19 lockdown, where Shiny finds herself confined to her husband’s home. Once a working professional, she had resigned from her job post-marriage. She now faces the daunting task of caring for her ailing mother-in-law. The constant departure of home nurses adds to her burden, making her feel increasingly suffocated in her daily life. This backdrop sets the stage for the events that unfold in Udal.
Shiny’s only solace comes in the form of an extramarital affair with her college junior, Kiran. He becomes her confidant, sharing her frustrations and dreams of a different life. One fateful night, Shiny and Kiran hatch a plan to break free from her oppressive circumstances. However, their plan spirals out of control. The following scenes lead to a series of unexpected and traumatic events that form the crux of Udal.
Director Ratheesh Reghunandan does not seek to justify Shiny’s actions but instead provides a window into the series of events that transform her into a remorseless individual, desperate to escape her life’s constraints. The film takes a dramatic turn when the character of Kuttichayan, played by Indrans, evolves from a soft-spoken father-in-law into a figure of retribution and violence. This transformation is a pivotal moment in the film, marking a shift from domestic drama to a tense, psychological thriller.
The battle that ensues between Shiny and Kuttichayan is a gripping portrayal of familial conflict taken to its extreme. The audience, expecting a conventional narrative, is instead drawn into a silent awe as the intense confrontation between the daughter-in-law and father-in-law unfolds. The film skillfully navigates the fine line between moral ambiguity and the stark realities of its characters’ choices.
Udal concludes with a powerful and thought-provoking ending. Shiny’s character, while initially unapologetic and relentless, shows brief moments of remorse, adding complexity to her role. Her actions and decisions leave a lasting impact on the audience, raising questions about morality, choice, and consequence.
In summary, Udal is a film that combines elements of noir fiction with Malayalam sensibilities to create a unique and thrilling cinematic experience. The performances of Indrans, Durga Krishna, and Dhyan Sreenivasan are commendable, each bringing depth and nuance to their roles.
Ratheesh Reghunandhan’s direction elevates the film, making it a significant contribution to Malayalam cinema and a must-watch for fans of the thriller genre.
A self-proclaimed Bollywood enthusiast with a flair for funk and entertainment. She is a gold medalist from TISS and has contributed to different startups looking after their digital marketing section.
She has always been an avid reader as well as a curious writer. In her leisure, she loves to spend time with her dogs and binge on organizational videos.
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