Streaming now on Lionsgate Play, Soothravakyam promises a heartfelt blend of drama and mystery, but does it deliver? Here’s our take on this Malayalam gem that’s making waves online.
Released in theaters on July 11, 2025, and now streaming on Lionsgate Play as of August 21, 2025, Soothravakyam is a Malayalam drama-thriller that tries to weave a unique story of community, duty, and hidden truths. Directed by debutant Eugien Jos Chirammel, the film stars Shine Tom Chacko, Vincy Aloshious, and Deepak Parambol in a tale set against the quiet backdrop of a Palakkad village. But does this small-town story live up to its intriguing premise? Let’s dive in.
A Fresh Premise with a Gentle Start
Soothravakyam introduces us to Christo Xavier (Shine Tom Chacko), a circle inspector who’s not your typical cinematic cop. Instead of chasing villains or cracking high-stakes cases, Christo spends his days teaching math to local 11th-graders at the Manimelkavu police station. It’s a refreshing change from the usual brooding, action-hero cops we see in Mollywood, and the film’s early moments capture the charm of this quirky setup. The police station feels more like a community hub, with students flocking to Christo’s free tuition classes, much to the chagrin of schoolteacher Nimisha (Vincy Aloshious).
The first half of the movie leans into this lighthearted vibe, painting a vivid picture of a close-knit town where everyone knows each other’s business. The cinematography by Sreeram Chandrasekharan shines here, capturing the lush greenery and sleepy rhythm of rural Palakkad with a understated beauty. It’s easy to get drawn into the small-town dynamics, where petty rivalries—like Nimisha’s frustration over her students ditching her classes for Christo’s—feel relatable and real.
A Shift to Darkness, but Does It Stick?
Just when you settle into the cozy, slice-of-life vibe, Soothravakyam takes a sharp turn into darker territory. A disturbing incident involving a young girl and her abusive brother (played by Deepak Parambol) sets the stage for a crime investigation that shakes up the town. The shift is bold, aiming to blend social commentary on issues like patriarchy and family dynamics with a gripping mystery. But here’s where the film starts to wobble.
The screenplay, penned by Rejin S. Babu, struggles to balance its feel-good roots with the weightier thriller elements. While the second half picks up pace, the investigation feels simplistic and predictable, lacking the tension needed to keep you on the edge of your seat. Key plot points, like a murder reveal, fall flat because the victim’s character isn’t given enough depth early on. The emotional beats, meant to tug at your heartstrings, often feel forced due to uneven writing and some less-than-stellar performances from the supporting cast.
Performances That Shine (and Some That Don’t)
Shine Tom Chacko is the beating heart of Soothravakyam. As Christo, he delivers a restrained, nuanced performance that’s a departure from his usual high-energy roles. His ability to convey quiet guilt and moral conflict through subtle gestures—like a lingering glance or a tense pause—adds depth to an otherwise underwritten character. It’s a reminder of why he’s one of Malayalam cinema’s most versatile actors.
Vincy Aloshious, as Nimisha, does her best with a role that feels more like a plot device than a fully fleshed-out character. Despite her limited screen time, she brings a quiet grace to the teacher’s frustrations, though the script doesn’t give her much to work with. Deepak Parambol’s portrayal of the volatile brother Vivek is intense but one-dimensional, hampered by writing that doesn’t explore his motivations deeply enough. The younger actors, including Naseef and Anagha Annet, show promise but struggle with the film’s heavier dramatic moments, making some scenes feel more melodramatic than moving.
What Works and What Doesn’t
At its best, Soothravakyam is a thoughtful exploration of community and responsibility, with a setting that feels authentic and lived-in. The film’s refusal to rely on over-the-top action or clichés is commendable, and its focus on everyday people facing real-world issues gives it a grounded charm. The music by Jean P Johnson complements the mood without overpowering it, and the editing by Nithish K.T.R. keeps things moving, even when the story drags.
But the film’s biggest flaw is its inability to fully commit to a single tone. Is it a heartwarming drama about a cop who cares? A gritty thriller about hidden truths? A social commentary on abuse and redemption? By trying to be all three, Soothravakyam ends up feeling scattered. The pacing falters in the second half, with a conclusion that drags and a resolution that feels too convenient. Characters like Nimisha and the students are sidelined, leaving loose ends that frustrate more than they intrigue.
Should You Stream It?
Soothravakyam is a film with a lot of heart and a promising idea, but it’s held back by a script that doesn’t quite know what it wants to be. Shine Tom Chacko’s performance and the film’s authentic village setting are its biggest strengths, making it worth a watch for fans of Malayalam cinema looking for something different. However, if you’re expecting a tightly woven thriller or a deeply emotional drama, you might find yourself disappointed.
Verdict:
It’s a decent one-time watch that lingers in your mind for its sincerity, but don’t expect it to redefine the genre. Stream it on Lionsgate Play for Shine Tom Chacko’s standout performance and a glimpse into small-town life, but temper your expectations for a cohesive story.
