Detective Ujjwalan Review: A Humorous, Suspense-Filled Thriller Anchored by Dhyan Sreenivasan’s Solid Performance

Introduction

Detective Ujjwalan emerges as a notable addition to Malayalam cinema’s thriller genre, set against the evocative backdrop of a 90s-style village. Directed by Rahul G and Indraneel GK, this film promises an intriguing narrative woven with suspense and a promising new cinematic universe. With a strong lead performance by Dhyan Sreenivasan, the film aims to captivate audiences with its gripping storyline and surprising twists.

Plot

Set in the quaint village of Plaachikkaavu, Detective Ujjwalan follows the journey of its titular character, played by Dhyan Sreenivasan, a local detective tasked with unraveling a series of mysterious crimes. As Ujjwalan delves deeper into the investigation, he finds himself in a deadly battle of wits with an elusive adversary. The plot unfolds steadily, blending elements of suspense, humor, and local flavor, making for a compelling narrative that keeps viewers engaged throughout.

Direction and Screenplay

Rahul G and Indraneel GK make a commendable directorial debut with Detective Ujjwalan. Their direction ensures a balanced narrative pace, with a simple yet effective first half that builds up to a more thrilling and intense second half. The screenplay, though occasionally slipping into familiar tropes of serial killer thrillers, manages to deliver enough surprises to maintain audience interest. The directors’ ability to capture the essence of village life in the 90s adds authenticity to the setting, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

Performances

Dhyan Sreenivasan shines in his role as Detective Ujjwalan, delivering one of his finest performances to date. His portrayal is nuanced and compelling, perfectly capturing the complexities of his character’s quest for justice and truth.

Siju Wilson as CI Shambhu Mahadev brings charisma and depth to his role, complementing Dhyan’s performance with his natural charm and effective screen presence.

Kottayam Nazeer, in a supporting role, delivers a memorable performance, adding a touch of humor and authenticity to the narrative.

Other Cast Members including Ameen, Nihal Nizam, Rony David, Seema G. Nair, Shahubas, Nibraz Noushad, Kalabhavan Navas, Anand Bbal, and Nirmal Palazhi collectively contribute to the film’s ensemble success, each portraying their characters with conviction and ensuring a well-rounded cinematic experience.

Technical Brilliance

The technical aspects of Detective Ujjwalan are noteworthy, with Premkrishna Akkattu’s and Sraiyanti Haricharan’s cinematography capturing the rustic charm of the village setting. Rzee’s music adds to the suspenseful atmosphere, enhancing key moments in the narrative. Chaman Chakko’s editing maintains the film’s pace, seamlessly transitioning between scenes and maintaining tension where needed.

Final Verdict

Detective Ujjwalan is a decent thriller that succeeds in blending suspense with humor and local flavor. While it follows a familiar template of serial killer films, its strong performances, particularly by Dhyan Sreenivasan, and the directors’ promising debut make it a worthwhile watch. Audiences looking for an engaging thriller with a touch of nostalgia will find Detective Ujjwalan to be a satisfying choice. However, those expecting groundbreaking innovation may find the predictable ending disappointing. Don’t miss the post-credit scene, which adds a final twist to the narrative, leaving room for speculation about future installments in this emerging cinematic universe.