So I caught Balti on Sony LIV last night. It’s a Malayalam action drama that came out last year (2025), and honestly, I didn’t know much about it going in other than the fact that Shane Nigam was in it. But man, it actually turned out to be a pretty intense, raw ride.
If you’re in the mood for something that has a lot of attitude, solid action sequences, and a gritty vibe, this one is definitely worth a spot on your watchlist.
What’s the Vibe?
The movie is written and directed by a newcomer, Unni Sivalingam. For a debut film, the guy definitely knows how to build a tense atmosphere. It’s an action drama, but it doesn’t feel like those over-the-top superhero-style action movies. It feels much more grounded, rough, and real. The story pulls you into this chaotic world, and once the momentum picks up, it really doesn’t let you go.
The Performances
The cast is honestly a super interesting mix of people:
Shane Nigam: Look, Shane just has this natural ability to play moody, intense characters so well. He brings this restless energy to the screen that makes the action scenes feel a lot higher stakes. You really root for him.
Shanthanu Bhagyaraj & Preethi Asrani: Both do a really great job holding their own. Preethi brings a lot of genuine emotion to the plot, and Shanthanu fits perfectly into the dramatic weight of the film.
Alphonse Puthren & Poornima Indrajith: It was honestly a pleasant surprise seeing Alphonse Puthren (the director of Premam) in a supporting acting role here alongside Poornima. They add a really nice layer of flavor to the supporting cast.
What Could Have Been Better
Since it’s a debut director, there are a few moments where the editing feels a little choppy, and the plot gets slightly crowded in the second half. It tries to do a lot at once, which might make you pause for a second to figure out exactly where the narrative is heading. But honestly, the raw energy of the film completely makes up for those small bumps.
The Final Verdict
Balti isn’t your clean, polished, formulaic blockbuster, and that’s exactly why it works. It’s gritty, it’s well-acted, and it keeps you engaged from start to finish. If you have Sony LIV and want to watch a solid Malayalam action-drama this weekend, definitely put this one on.
