Mathilukal (1989) Review in 2025
Mathilukal is a 1989 Malayalam drama film directed by P. Padmarajan, based on his own novel of the same name. The movie follows the story of a woman who is imprisoned for her husband's crime and the emotional journey she undergoes during her time in jail.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is not suitable for family viewing due to its mature themes and emotional content.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is worth watching for its engaging story, well-developed characters, and superb direction. However, it may not be suitable for all audiences due to its mature themes and emotional content.
Spoiler Alert!
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The movie revolves around the life of a woman named Sreedevi, who is imprisoned for her husband's crime. As she navigates the harsh realities of life in jail, she forms a bond with a fellow inmate, and together they face the challenges of their confinement. Meanwhile, Sreedevi's husband tries to secure her release, but the process is complicated by the complexities of the Indian judicial system.
Review Details
story8.00/10
The story is engaging and well-paced, with a strong focus on the emotional journey of the protagonist. However, some viewers may find the plot to be a bit predictable.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with Shobana delivering a standout performance as the protagonist. The supporting cast is also excellent, adding depth to the story.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with the protagonist being particularly well-portrayed. The supporting characters add depth to the story, but some may feel underutilized.
direction9.00/10
The direction is superb, with P. Padmarajan bringing out the best in his cast. The cinematography is also noteworthy, capturing the harsh realities of life in jail.
cinematography8.50/10
The cinematography is excellent, capturing the bleakness of life in jail and the emotional toll it takes on the characters. However, some viewers may find the color palette to be a bit dull.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The movie's engaging story, well-developed characters, and superb direction make it a must-watch for fans of Malayalam cinema.
Cons
Some viewers may find the plot to be a bit predictable, and the color palette may be a bit dull.
Notable Quotes
"Mathilukal is a Malayalam word that means 'the prison walls'."
"The prison is a place where people go to forget their past, but it's also a place where they remember their past."
