Vadakkan Movie Review: A Gripping Yet Flawed Paranormal Thriller
Vadakkan Movie Review
Plot Overview
Malayalam filmmakers are known for experimenting with storytelling, and Vadakkan is one such venture. Originally a Malayalam film, this Telugu adaptation stars Kannada Kishore in the lead role. Released in theaters on March 7, the movie has now started streaming on Aha.
The story follows Raman (Kishore), a renowned paranormal psychologist. One day, he receives a call from his ex-lover, Megha, who reveals that her husband, Ravivarma, along with six friends, went to an island for a reality show but never returned. She pleads with Raman to investigate.
As Raman digs deeper, he learns that the island has been abandoned for 400 years—anyone who ventured there never came back. The British once built a bungalow there but left due to unexplained incidents. The reality show was filmed in that same haunted bungalow.

Raman, along with his assistant Ena (Sruthi Menon), travels to the island, entering the dense forest and the decrepit mansion. What challenges await them? What happened to the reality show team? And what dark history connects the island to its tribal past? The story unfolds through suspenseful twists.
Vadakkan Movie Review: Analysis
The premise—featuring a tribal land, British-era ruins, and a reality show gone wrong—is intriguing. The paranormal angle adds momentum, but the execution falters. The reality show episode, crucial to the plot, feels unnecessarily stretched. Viewers may wonder if they’re watching a movie or a reality show segment.
Pacing is an issue—some sequences drag, while key moments (like the tribal flashback and Raman’s exploration of the mansion) needed more depth. Tightening the runtime could have made the film more engaging.
Vadakkan Movie Review: Technical Aspects
- Performances: Kannada Kishore delivers a compelling performance. The supporting cast, including Sruthi Menon and Meenakshi, do justice to their roles.
- Cinematography (Kaiko Nakara): The visuals enhance the eerie atmosphere.
- Music (Bijibal): The background score amplifies the tension.
- Editing (Suraj): Sharp cuts maintain suspense but could have been tighter in the first half.

Vadakkan Movie Review: Verdict
Vadakkan has an interesting setup but suffers from uneven pacing. A more concise narrative would have elevated the experience. While the second half picks up, the prolonged reality show segment tests patience. Still, for fans of paranormal thrillers, it offers enough intrigue.
FAQs About Vadakkan
1. Is Vadakkan a remake of a Malayalam movie?
Yes, Vadakkan is originally a Malayalam film adapted into Telugu.
2. Where can I watch Vadakkan?
It is streaming on Aha.
3. Who is the lead actor in Vadakkan?
Kannada Kishore plays the protagonist, Raman.
4. Is Vadakkan a horror movie?
It’s a paranormal thriller with horror elements.
5. What is Vadakkan’s runtime?
Approximately 2 hours 20 minutes.
6. Who composed the music for Vadakkan?
Bijibal handled the background score.
7. Does Vadakkan have a sequel?
No official announcement yet.
Disclaimer
This review reflects the writer’s personal opinion. Viewer discretion is advised, as preferences may vary. The facts presented (cast, release date, etc.) are accurate at the time of writing. For updates, check official sources.
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