
Padakkalam (2025) is a Malayalam supernatural fantasy comedy film directed by Manu Swaraj and co-written with Nithin C. Babu. Lensmen Reviews+3Wikipedia+3The Indian Express+3 It stars Suraj Venjaramoodu, Sharaf U Dheen, and Sandeep Pradeep in pivotal roles. Wikipedia+2PINKVILLA+2 The film released on 8 May 2025 across India and later on OTT platforms. Wikipedia+2The Times of India+2 Padakkalam became a surprise commercial success at the box office, earning strong responses from young audiences. PINKVILLA+3Wikipedia+3The Times of India+3
The narrative fuses campus life, college politics, black magic, and body-swap themes into one quirky package. OTTPlay+4Onmanorama+4The Indian Express+4 Padakkalam falls into the sub-genre of fantasy comedy thriller where the ordinary (a college) meets the extraordinary (ancient powers). Popcorn Reviewss+3OTTPlay+3Lensmen Reviews+3 Its tone is often light, humorous, and surreal, though reviewers noted some weak writing and under-developed characters in parts. Hindustan Times+2The Indian Express+2 The film tries to explore identity, power, and supernatural control in a familiar campus setting. OTTPlay+3The New Indian Express+3The Indian Express+3
While Padakkalam leans heavily on its fantasy concept, it also delivers on comic relief via the ensemble of students and professors. The Indian Express+4Lensmen Reviews+4Onmanorama+4 The performances of Suraj and Sharaf U Dheen are considered among the brighter spots, carrying many scenes with their screen presence. The Indian Express+2Onmanorama+2 Cinematography by Anu Moothedath and music by Rajesh Murugesan add atmospheric support, even when the logic wobbles. Popcorn Reviewss+4Wikipedia+4Lensmen Reviews+4 Its weird premise may require suspension of disbelief, but for many, that is part of its charm. OTTPlay+2Onmanorama+2