Is ‘Thudarum’ A Crime Thriller? What We Know So Far About Mohanlal’s Much-Anticipated Film (Image: Instagram/ tharun_moorthy)
When a film brings together a powerhouse like Mohanlal, the quiet intensity of Shobana, and the storytelling precision of director Tharun Moorthy, expectations naturally run high.
But as audiences gear up for the release of Thudarum on April 25, 2025, one question has quietly lingered: Is this a crime thriller—or something deeper?
While Thudarum has often been described as a crime drama, it appears to sidestep the loud conventions of the genre.
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Instead of relying on high-octane chase sequences or shock-value twists, the film leans into its characters, particularly Shanmugham, a taxi driver played by Mohanlal, and Lalitha, portrayed by Shobana in a long-awaited on-screen reunion with the veteran actor.
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Some suggest that the censoring for the film was carried out in the United Kingdom, and it has received a “15” classification, meaning it’s considered suitable only for viewers aged 15 and above.
The story reportedly draws from a real-life moment encountered by K R Sunil, a documentary photographer and co-writer of the film.
That origin alone hints at a layered narrative, one grounded in real emotions and subtle tensions rather than overblown spectacle.
Director Tharun Moorthy, who made waves with Operation Java and Saudi Vellakka, is known for weaving human stories into socially rooted and raw themes.
From what’s been shared by the makers, Thudarum is less about the “whodunit” and more about what it does to the people involved.
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Tharun Moorthy himself has described Shanmugham’s character as “down-to-earth” and reminiscent of the vintage Mohanlal from films directed by Sathyan Anthikkad or Kamal—a man of the people, caught in something larger than himself. That alone sets a tone that’s far more grounded than glossy.
The cast also includes Farhaan Faasil, Maniyanpilla Raju, Irshad Ali, Aarsha Chandini Baiju, and others, suggesting a story built on solid ensemble performances.
Spanning 99 days of shooting across Kerala and Tamil Nadu, Thudarum took its time to come together—and perhaps, rightfully so. From Kaloor and Ranni to Chennai and Theni, the locations hint at a wide and scenic canvas.
With the unfortunate passing of editor Nishadh Yusuf, the film also carries with it a layer of transition, handled by Shafeeque V B, who stepped in to complete the work while honouring the original vision.
Originally slated for a theatrical release on January 30, 2025, Thudarum has now been rescheduled and is set to hit cinemas on April 25, 2025.
