Ponman Movie Review (2025): Basil Joseph Shines in a Golden Tale
A gripping Malayalam drama that blends humor, tension, and social commentary
Introduction: Why "Ponman" Stands Out in 2025
In the ever-evolving world of Malayalam cinema, Ponman emerges as a golden gem in 2025. Directed by debutant Jothish Shankar and starring the versatile Basil Joseph, this film is a refreshing take on the dowry system, wrapped in a dark comedy-thriller package. Released on January 30, 2025, "Ponman" has already captured hearts globally with its unique storytelling and stellar performances. As a film critic for Charotar Daily, I’m here to dive deep into why this movie deserves your attention.
Plot Summary: A Tale Worth Its Weight in Gold
Set against the coastal backdrop of Kollam, Kerala, Ponman movie follows PP Ajesh (Basil Joseph), a gold broker entangled in the risky business of lending jewelry for weddings. When he lends 25 sovereigns of gold to Bruno (Anand Manmadhan) for his sister Steffi Graf’s (Lijomol Jose) wedding, things take a dramatic turn. Steffi’s groom, the notorious Mariano (Sajin Gopu), schemes to keep the gold, putting Ajesh’s life and livelihood at stake. What unfolds is a tense, humorous, and emotionally charged chase that exposes the dark underbelly of the gold dowry system.
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Cast and Crew: The Heart of "Ponman"
The brilliance of Ponman 2025 lies in its impeccable cast and crew. Basil Joseph delivers a career-defining performance as Ajesh, shedding his comedic persona for a gritty, determined character. Sajin Gopu as Mariano is equally compelling, balancing menace with subtlety. Lijomol Jose shines as Steffi, bringing depth to a woman caught in societal expectations.
- Director: Jothish Shankar (Wikipedia)
- Screenplay: G.R. Indugopan, Justin Mathew (IMDb)
- Cinematography: Sanu John Varghese
- Music: Justin Varghese
- Cast: Basil Joseph, Sajin Gopu, Lijomol Jose, Anand Manmadhan, Deepak Parambol (Filmibeat)
The technical finesse of Sanu John Varghese’s cinematography and Justin Varghese’s haunting score elevates this Malayalam cinema masterpiece.
Film Critic’s Take: Strengths and Flaws
Ponman is a triumph of storytelling. Jothish Shankar’s direction weaves humor and tension seamlessly, making every frame pulse with life. The screenplay, adapted from G.R. Indugopan’s novel Naalanchu Cheruppakar, is sharp and layered, offering a fresh perspective on a societal malaise. Basil Joseph’s relentless pursuit of his gold is both inspiring and unsettling—a testament to his acting prowess.
However, the film isn’t without flaws. The pacing dips in the second half, and some characters, like Bruno, feel underdeveloped. The climax, while clever, lacks the punch to leave a lasting impact. Still, these are minor blemishes on an otherwise dazzling canvas.
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Rating: A Golden 4/5
Ponman movie review verdict: This film is a must-watch for fans of Malayalam cinema and anyone who appreciates a well-crafted story. It’s not just a movie—it’s an experience that lingers long after the credits roll.
Why You Should Watch "Ponman" on OTT
Available on JioHotstar since March 14, 2025, Ponman is perfect for a weekend binge. Its 127-minute runtime flies by, thanks to its engaging narrative and stellar performances. Whether you’re a Basil Joseph fan or a cinephile seeking quality content, this Malayalam movie 2025 won’t disappoint.
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