Kalamkaval Review – Brilliant Take-off landing into Tedious Zone

Megastar Mammootty has consistently demonstrated his flair for unsettling and unconventional characters. Ever since the unsettling jolt of Munnariyippu (2014), his performances under his home banner have boldly explored uncharted narratives, most recently in the critically acclaimed Bramayugam. With Kalamkaval, directed by Jithin K. Joseph, he returns to a chilling persona inspired by the real-life serial killer “Cyanide Mohan”, convicted for the brutal murders of multiple women. The premise alone promises a gripping psychological descent.

A Strong Start That Chooses a Straight Road

The trailer suggested layers of mystery, especially with Mammootty and Vinayakan shown in morally ambiguous shades. Surprisingly, the film refuses to indulge in twists. It discards the usual genre scaffolding and opts for a direct, linear approach — antagonist commits crime, protagonist pursues, justice awaits.

The first half maintains an effective pulse, sustaining tension with confident staging. The “Crossover” sequence before the interval stands out as a riveting high point, raising expectations for a relentless second-half escalation. Unfortunately, the momentum falters soon after. The narrative begins to repeat itself — murders occur, cops investigate, and little changes. This slow-burn approach might have worked if the screenplay had layered its psychology deeper. Instead, it circles familiar tropes, offering little surprise.

Performance and Technique: A Mixed Bag

Mammootty weaponises his smirk and presence to chilling effect, infusing menace into every appearance. He shocks without raising his voice — a feat only experienced performers achieve. On the other hand, Vinayakan’s character remains one-note, despite attempts to add emotional grounding through a predictable father–daughter thread.

Rajeesha Vijayan and the supporting cast receive minimal scope, often appearing as narrative placeholders. Technically, the background score shoulders the emotional weight — without it, the film would struggle to retain its tension.

A Brave Intent with Compromised Narrative Integrity

Kalamkaval dares to explore disturbing real events and hands Mammootty another daring role. Yet, the screenplay loses its edge in the second hour, replacing taut storytelling with repetitive structure. Although the final revelations provide brief elevation, the subsequent indulgence in heroism feels like sugarcoating — diluting what could have been a far more uncompromising conclusion.

Kalamkaval is an audacious character vehicle for Mammootty, but its gripping first act ultimately fades into predictable thriller conventions.