Rekhachithram begins as a standard mystery thriller—a 40-year-old murder, a suspended police officer seeking redemption, and a suicide deep in the woods. However, the film soon takes an unexpected detour, becoming an evocative homage to the golden age of Malayalam cinema. For cinephiles with a penchant for the 1980s, the film strikes a chord, seamlessly blending nostalgia with a layered narrative.
Director Jofin T Chacko appears to have envisioned the project as a tribute to a bygone era, with the crime subplot serving as a pretext to recreate the magic of 1980s Malayalam cinema. From the outset, Asif Ali’s character Vivek—a suspended cop desperate to restore his reputation—is introduced in a series of quick, snappy exchanges with his endearing father, played by Harisree Ashokan. While these moments are charming, the rapid cuts leave the backstory underdeveloped, hinting at overzealous editing.
A Cinematic Time Machine
The screenplay, crafted by John Manthrickal and Ramu Sunil, delves deep into Malayalam cinema’s rich legacy. It borrows elements from Bharathan’s classic Kathodu Kathoram (1985), references a popular Ouseppachan song, and explores the life of junior artistes and film journalism of that era. The incorporation of the timeless song “Devadoothar Padi” (recently revived in Nna Thaan Case Kodu) further enriches the narrative, bridging generations of moviegoers.
Mammootty, the star of Kathodu Kathoram, is cleverly woven into the story, his presence felt throughout the film. While this subtle inclusion works, the reliance on artificial intelligence for certain sequences comes off as heavy-handed, potentially diluting the originality of the tribute.
Performances and Casting
Asif Ali shines as Vivek, bringing depth to a character balancing frustration, determination, and detachment. Anaswara Rajan delivers a compelling performance, skillfully portraying emotions ranging from bursts of excitement to quiet sorrow.
The film also introduces younger look-alikes of real-life stalwarts like Bharathan, John Paul, and Kamal. While their presence doesn’t create a “wow” moment, it adds authenticity to the period setting. However, the make-up department falters—painted tans for certain characters, unexplained by the script, feel out of place, and Megha Thomas’s aged look is far from convincing.
Missed Opportunities
Despite its strengths, Rekhachithram suffers from a few inadequacies. Manoj K Jayan’s character lacks depth, and Bhama Arun’s role alongside Asif Ali feels underutilized. Similarly, Zarin Shihab’s character fails to leave a lasting impression. Yet, brief performances by Indrans manage to tug at the heartstrings, showcasing the actor’s ability to make a mark with minimal screen time.
A Balanced Thriller
While the thriller elements are restrained, they provide just enough intrigue to keep the audience engaged. The story strikes a delicate balance, avoiding overindulgence in suspense while delivering subtle highs until the finale.
Final Verdict
Rekhachithram is more than just a thriller—it’s a time capsule, a love letter to the golden era of Malayalam cinema. For those who hold a fondness for the films of the 1980s, it’s a gentle reminder of the industry’s rich history. Though not without its flaws, the film’s heartfelt tribute and engaging narrative make it worth a watch.
Disclaimer: This review was not paid for or commissioned by anyone associated with the film. Neither Desh Crux nor its reviewers have any business relationship with the producers or cast members.
