Padakkalam (2025) Movie ft. Manu, Sandeep and Sharafudheen

Padakkalam is a 2025 Malayalam-language supernatural fantasy comedy film that hit theaters on May 8, 2025. Directed by debutant Manu Swaraj, the movie brings together a unique blend of humor, magic, and mystery, all set in a college campus. It is produced by Vijay Babu and Vijay Subramaniam under the banners of Friday Film House and 29SeptemberWorks.

Padakkalam Casting

Plot Overview

The story is centered around Jithin (played by Sandeep Pradeep), a shy engineering student who, along with his close group of comic book-loving friends, lives a mostly uneventful college life. Things start to change when they discover that their charismatic professor, Ranjith (played by Sharafudheen), is using supernatural powers to control what happens on campus.

As the students investigate deeper, they encounter mysterious events like body-swapping and black magic. This leads to several comedic and thrilling situations, making the movie both fun and suspenseful.

Cast Performances

• Suraj Venjaramoodu plays Shaji, the newly appointed Head of Department, who gets involved in the supernatural chaos. He brings both humor and sincerity to the role.
• Sharafudheen shines as Professor Ranjith, balancing charm and mystery in his performance. He’s a major highlight of the film.
• Sandeep Pradeep, as Jithin, delivers a believable portrayal of a nerdy student suddenly caught in a world of magic and mayhem.
• The supporting cast — including Saaf as Kannan, Arun Pradeep as Ramsad, and Arun Ajikumar as Nakul — also bring plenty of laughs and energy.

Direction and Technical Aspects

Director Manu Swaraj, in his first film, shows he has the creativity to mix genres like fantasy and comedy. While the storyline is original and bold, the writing could have been tighter in places to keep the pace more engaging throughout.

Anu Moothedath’s cinematography captures the vibrant college atmosphere and eerie supernatural elements beautifully. Rajesh Murugesan’s music fits well with the film’s tone and enhances both the comic and thrilling moments. Nidhin Raj Arol’s editing keeps the film flowing well, although a few scenes feel a bit stretched.

Critical Reception

Padakkalam has received mixed reviews from film critics:

• The Times of India gave it 3.5 out of 5, praising its creative story and strong acting.
• Onmanorama found it entertaining if you’re ready to suspend logic and enjoy the ride.
• Nowrunning appreciated the unique concept, though they pointed out some flaws in the script.
• The New Indian Express called it a fun but slightly flawed fantasy comedy.
• Hindustan Times was more critical, giving it 2 out of 5, mainly due to weak writing and underdeveloped characters.

Audience Response

Even though critics had mixed opinions, the general public, especially younger viewers, have responded positively. The unique storyline, engaging characters, and supernatural comedy have made it a favorite among college students and fans of fantasy films.

As of mid-May 2025, Padakkalam has earned over ₹5.25 crore at the box office, showing that word of mouth and fresh storytelling are working in its favor.

Final Verdict

Padakkalam is a bold and refreshing attempt to do something different in Malayalam cinema. While it may not be perfect, it brings enough fun, creativity, and strong performances to keep audiences entertained. If you enjoy quirky, genre-blending stories with a mix of laughs and mystery, this movie is worth a watch.