“Oru Anveshanathinte Thudakkam,” directed by M.A. Nishad, embarks on a suspenseful journey through the case of a missing investigative journalist in Kerala, intertwining family politics and dark secrets. Based on real experiences recorded in the case diaries of Nishad’s father, DIG P.M. Kunjumoideen Kutty, the film opens with the intriguing disappearance of Jeevan Thomas (played by Shine Tom Chacko), an outspoken social media journalist. This leads the Kottayam Crime Branch, helmed by the methodical DySP Isaac Mammen (played by Nishad himself), to an investigation that gradually uncovers deeper layers of family betrayal and mystery.
The film’s initial momentum is commendable, with a well-crafted beginning that immerses viewers in the investigative process. However, as the plot progresses, the storytelling loses some of its sharpness, leaning toward overwriting and an excess of direction that dilutes the suspense. Nishad’s portrayal of Isaac Mammen is grounded and credible, yet the film could have benefited from a stronger star presence to add heft to its central role.
Running at just over three hours, the film’s extended duration is both its asset and its Achilles’ heel. On one hand, the sprawling runtime allows room for detailed subplots and character arcs that enrich the narrative. On the other, it stretches the suspense thin, risking the patience of the audience. A tighter, more focused approach could have elevated the film’s pacing, which is essential for a thriller.
Cinematographer Vivek Menon and editor John Kutty keep their work understated, which supports the film’s grounded atmosphere without distracting from the story. The subdued cinematography and editing choices align well with the slow-burn narrative style but could have leveraged sharper cuts to enhance tension.
One standout feature of “Oru Anveshanathinte Thudakkam” is its progressive portrayal of female characters in the police force, contrasting with other Malayalam investigation thrillers that tend to underplay or overlook women’s roles in the investigation process. Actresses Durga Krishna and Swasika are commendable as officers who add credibility and strength to the investigation team. Vani Viswanath, in a powerful cameo as a morally ambiguous character, brings intensity to her scenes, and her dance sequence with Bigg Boss star Dilsha adds an enjoyable layer for her fans.
While the core plot is intriguing and brings some satisfying twists, the film suffers from an excess of characters and occasional detours that disrupt the narrative flow. By the time the main investigation reaches its conclusion, viewers might feel that the story could have been more effectively told from a different perspective or with fewer diversions.
Comparisons to “Kannur Squad” are inevitable, as both films explore police procedural elements with a grounded approach, though “Oru Anveshanathinte Thudakkam” distinguishes itself through a multi-layered narrative and a stronger focus on women in key roles. Yet, the attempt to show progressive elements at times feels forced, with scenes showing female officers smoking or drinking that, while aimed at conveying modernity, can feel somewhat out of place.
The film’s ensemble cast, including Shine Tom Chacko, Kottayam Nazeer, Vijay Babu, Anumol, and others, performs commendably, adding depth to their respective roles. The music and action sequences complement the film’s tone, and overhead camera shots are skillfully used to amplify the suspense in certain scenes.
In sum, “Oru Anveshanathinte Thudakkam” is a moderately engaging thriller that holds viewer interest with its layered storytelling and fresh character dynamics. While it could benefit from tighter editing and fewer narrative digressions, it delivers a mostly satisfying experience, particularly for those drawn to investigative thrillers with a socially conscious edge. Fans of the genre will appreciate its intricate plot, although a more compact runtime and focused direction might have enhanced its overall impact.