Narivetta movie review: Tovino Thomas’ action drama is a triggering reminder of a crimson-stained chapter in Kerala’s history
Plot Summary: When the Past Bleeds into the Present
Set in a fictionalized version of a small Kerala town, Narivetta follows Arjun (Tovino Thomas), a former journalist turned reluctant activist, who is drawn back to his hometown after a series of brutal incidents linked to political radicalism. As he digs deeper, what begins as a personal investigation quickly unearths a network of suppressed truths, hidden agendas, and systemic silence.
The plot is interwoven with references to real-life incidents and ideologies that shaped Kerala’s recent political past. But Narivetta never sensationalizes—it reflects, remembers, and questions.
Performance: Tovino Thomas at His Most Introspective
Tovino delivers one of his most layered performances to date. As Arjun, he embodies vulnerability and rage in equal measure. This isn’t your typical action hero. His strength lies in moral clarity and a deep emotional conflict, not muscle or machismo.
Supporting performances, particularly from [insert actress/actor name], add weight to the narrative. The ensemble cast doesn’t just support the story—they amplify its emotional and historical gravity.
Direction & Screenplay: Subtle Yet Unflinching
The direction stands out for its maturity. The filmmaker handles a politically loaded subject with remarkable restraint, avoiding preachiness while still making bold statements. The screenplay is tight, peppered with sharp dialogues and moments that will linger long after the credits roll.
Flashbacks are used effectively, giving us glimpses into how ideology turns personal—and how the personal becomes political.
Cinematography & Music: Elegantly Stark
The visuals by [Insert Cinematographer’s Name] are raw and atmospheric. Dark-toned frames and stark lighting choices mirror the film’s emotional weight. The rural landscapes, bloodied alleys, and silent protests are captured with haunting realism.
The background score, composed by [Composer Name], adds intensity without overpowering. At times, silence speaks louder than the soundscape—and the film knows when to let it.
Themes: Memory, Justice, and Moral Reckoning
What makes Narivetta powerful isn’t just its plot or performances—it’s the way it forces us to ask: how far has Kerala come since that bloody chapter? Have we healed or simply chosen to forget?
The film explores:
- The generational impact of violence
- The thin line between activism and extremism
- The silence of institutions and the weight of complicity
It doesn’t offer easy answers—and that’s exactly why it resonates.
Trigger Warning: Emotional and Political Violence
Narivetta is not for the faint-hearted. Scenes of violence—though not gratuitous—are emotionally charged. If you’re familiar with the real-life events it alludes to, prepare to revisit some uncomfortable truths.
Verdict: A Cinematic Memorial That Cuts Deep
Narivetta isn’t just a movie—it’s a reckoning. It’s a reminder that cinema can do more than tell stories. It can remember for us. It can mourn, and it can question. Tovino Thomas anchors the film with a performance that is as compelling as it is compassionate.
