Hridayapoorvam Review
Hridayapoorvam, the latest Malayalam release now streaming on Jio Hotstar, is a film that doesn’t scream for your attention — it earns it slowly, gently, and with great heart.
Directed by Sathyan Anthikad and starring Mohanlal, the film brings back a beloved actor-director duo for a soulful drama that balances humour, emotion, and quiet reflection in equal measure.
The Story
Mohanlal plays Sandeep Balakrishnan, a successful cloud-kitchen entrepreneur in Kochi, who remains emotionally distant even after surviving a heart transplant. Coldly dismissing the organ that saved his life as “just an organ,” he continues to live in his shell of self-imposed detachment.
Things take a turn when he visits Pune for the engagement of Haritha, the daughter of the man whose heart now beats in his chest. When the engagement abruptly collapses and Sandeep ends up stuck with Haritha’s family, what begins as awkward familiarity slowly blooms into something tender and transformative.
What Works
Mohanlal’s performance is effortless and deeply rooted. He brings humour and vulnerability to Sandeep, making his emotional arc believable and affecting. The film beautifully captures the interplay of strangers becoming family, without melodrama. Malavika Mohanan as Haritha delivers a grounded, heartfelt performance, while the supporting cast adds flavour and charm. Visually, the film leans into natural light, warm interiors, and quiet framing — making it feel like a lived-in memory. The music and background score gently accentuate the mood, especially in key emotional beats.
What Could Be Better
The pacing dips in the middle, with a few sequences that feel stretched. Some plot points are predictable, and a few emotional turns could’ve used more build-up. A tighter screenplay would have made the narrative even more impactful.
Verdict
Hridayapoorvam is a heartfelt, feel-good drama that reminds us of the connections we don’t see coming. It’s not loud or flashy — and that’s its greatest strength. If you’re in the mood for a film that comforts more than it challenges, this one’s worth your time.
Rating: ★★★½ (3.5/5)
