Once clouded by controversy, Soothravakyam is now emerging as one of the most anticipated films of the year. Set for a worldwide theatrical release on July 11, 2025, the Malayalam-language psychological drama will also be releasing in Telugu, signaling a bold crossover move into Tollywood territory.
What started as a project under scrutiny has now won over early critics, thanks to private preview screenings held for senior film journalists and cinephiles. Surprisingly, many of these viewers—known for their critical eye—have responded with enthusiastic praise. The film has earned a strong 4.1/5 average rating from early reviewers, who appreciated the film’s moody tone, layered storytelling, and emotionally charged performances.
At the heart of Soothravakyam is actor Shine Tom Chacko, who is no stranger to Telugu viewers. After his intense roles in Dasara and Daku Maharaj, Shine returns with what many are calling one of the most personal and moving performances of his career. His role in Soothravakyam comes after a tough period in his life, including a serious accident and the passing of his father. Critics have pointed out that this personal grief is reflected powerfully in his performance, bringing authenticity and emotional weight to the film.
Meanwhile, behind the scenes, the film has made equally strong strides. Even before its theatrical debut, Soothravakyam has locked in OTT streaming rights with a major digital platform—an impressive feat for a Malayalam film. This early acquisition speaks volumes about the confidence the industry has in the film’s commercial and emotional appeal across regional and online markets.
The film is directed by Eugene Jos Charmel and produced by Srikanth Kandragula under the Cinema Bandi banner, and is being positioned as a slow-burn drama with psychological undertones. Audiences can expect a grounded, intense cinematic experience that avoids commercial frills in favor of raw emotion and real-world relevance.
Highlights & Drawbacks – Soothravakyam (2025)
What Works:
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Thought-provoking and original theme
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Nuanced performance by Shine Tom Chacko
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Strong production design and technical execution
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Emotionally resonant and socially layered storytelling
What May Not Work for Everyone:
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The first half moves at a measured pace, which may test audiences expecting a faster narrative
Critical Takeaway & Final Rating
Ultimately, Soothravakyam is a film that dares to be different. While it may not follow the template of a conventional thriller, it delivers depth, atmosphere, and meaning—qualities that are increasingly rare. The film’s ability to combine suspense with psychological depth results in a memorable experience that lingers well after the credits roll.
Considering the screenplay, direction, acting, and overall impact, TTimes awards Soothravakyam a solid 3.8 out of 5 stars. It’s a confident, risk-taking project that manages to find emotional payoff and cinematic strength in its own unique voice.
★ Final Rating: 3.8/5
A bold film that thrives on emotion, restraint, and performance-driven storytelling.