Rating: ⭐⭐⭐✨ (3.5/5)
Ponman, the 2025 Malayalam dark comedy thriller, directed by Jothish Shankar, is an engaging yet slightly uneven film that delivers strong performances, a well-crafted setting, and a compelling narrative, but stumbles in execution at times. Adapted from GR Indugopan’s novel Naalanchu Cheruppakar, the film attempts to blend humor, social critique, and suspense, often succeeding, but occasionally feeling stretched.
A Story Rooted in Realism and Chaos
Set against the rustic backdrop of a coastal village in Kollam, Ponman follows PP Ajesh (Basil Joseph), a gold dealer whose simple transaction turns into a high-stakes ordeal. When Ajesh lends 25 sovereigns of gold to Bruno (Anand Manmadhan) for his sister Steffi’s (Lijomol Jose) wedding, he never anticipates the chaos that follows. The bride’s husband, Mariyano (Sajin Gopu), a prawn farmer with a rough reputation, refuses to return the gold, setting Ajesh on an unexpected and dangerous path.
The film’s core strength lies in its portrayal of desperate individuals caught in a web of obligations, survival, and deception. The screenplay, penned by Indugopan and Justin Mathew, crafts a layered narrative that highlights the socio-economic struggles and moral dilemmas of its characters. However, the pacing stutters in parts, particularly in the second half, where a tighter edit could have enhanced the experience.
Performances That Shine
Basil Joseph, known for his impeccable comedic timing and versatility, shoulders the film with ease. His portrayal of Ajesh is both humorous and emotionally resonant, making him a relatable protagonist. Sajin Gopu, as Mariyano, exudes menace, playing the antagonistic figure with a strong screen presence. Lijomol Jose brings depth to Steffi, torn between familial duty and personal desires, adding a layer of emotional complexity.
Aesthetic and Technical Brilliance
One of Ponman‘s biggest assets is its cinematography. The coastal setting is beautifully captured, immersing the audience in its raw, untouched landscapes. The music, composed by Justin Varghese, adds to the film’s atmosphere, though at times, it feels slightly overemphasized in dramatic moments.
Where the Film Falters
Despite its engaging premise, Ponman struggles with pacing. The film starts strong but meanders in the middle, taking detours that don’t always add value. Some characters feel underdeveloped, leaving the audience wanting more depth in their arcs. Additionally, while the film aims to blend dark humor with suspense, the tonal shifts can feel jarring at times.
Final Verdict
Ponman is a film that gets a lot right—its performances, setting, and core story are commendable. However, its pacing and occasional tonal inconsistencies hold it back from being a great film. At 3.5 stars, Ponman is a worthwhile watch for its performances and setting, but it doesn’t quite hit masterpiece status. If you enjoy Malayalam cinema’s unique take on realism mixed with dark humor, this one is definitely worth checking out, even if it demands a bit of patience.