Kishkindha Kaandam hooks you right from the start. What begins as a simple story of a missing revolver quickly turns into something much more mysterious and thrilling.

With its intriguing title that references the famous forest from the Ramayana, Kishkindha Kaandam keeps you on edge while tugging at your emotions.

Plot and Premise

The film opens with the marriage of Aparna (Aparna Balamurali) and Ajayan (Asif Ali) in a simple, no-frills ceremony at a registrar’s office. Soon after, Aparna joins Ajayan at his home, deep within a forest reserve, surrounded by monkeys. The title, Kishkindha Kaandam, hints at this environment (Kishkindha was the name of the forest filled with monkeys in Ramayana) and sets the tone for the mysteries that begin to unfold.

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However, Aparna’s arrival is far from a typical new bride’s welcome. Instead of the warmth and excitement of a newlywed life, she’s greeted by police officers investigating a missing revolver from Ajayan’s house, the revolver belonging to Ajayan’s eccentric father Appu Pillai. This unusual scenario sets off a thrilling chain of events that draws Aparna—and the audience—into the secrets lurking within the wilderness and Ajayan’s life. The story quickly turns into an engaging mystery, where every detail counts and nothing is wasted—not even the monkeys.

Performances

While Aparna Balamurali delivers a decent performance, it is Asif Ali and Vijay Raghavan who truly shine.

Asif Ali excels in the role of Ajayan, portraying him with a quiet intensity that keeps you guessing about his true nature. He carries the pain of Ajayan, a man who has lost his wife and son, throughout the movie consistently. Vijay Raghavan, in a key supporting role, is beyond excellent, providing a measured performance that challenges the leads. I feel that Malayalam cinema has not given him his due credit as one of the most versatile actors in the industry.

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Writing that stands out

The film’s script is a testament to great storytelling. Every scene serves a purpose, with no wasted moments or unnecessary distractions. The plot moves at a brisk pace, maintaining the viewer’s attention with clever twists and layered storytelling. The screenplay is one of the biggest strengths of Kishkindha Kaandam, skillfully balancing suspense, drama, and emotional depth, all while building a palpable atmosphere of mystery.

One of the film’s highlights is how it utilizes every element—whether it’s the monkeys in the forest or the missing revolver—to further the narrative. This efficiency ensures that the story moves quickly without any gaps for boredom or detachment.

Technical brilliance that keeps us invested

The background score in Kishkindha Kaandam is an understated gem. It’s not haunting, but it heightens the suspense and keeps you emotionally invested without being overbearing. It complements the story, allowing the tension to build naturally.

The cinematography, especially the way it captures the lush yet eerie forest surroundings, is visually striking. The forest becomes a character in its own right, contributing to the overall sense of foreboding and mystery. The use of lighting and framing adds to the unsettling atmosphere, enhancing the film’s thematic connection to nature and the unknown.

Kishkindha Kaandam is a standout mystery drama, combining brilliant performances with a sharp, well-constructed script. Aparna Balamurali and Asif Ali both deliver outstanding performances, while the engaging plot and smart storytelling ensure that viewers remain hooked from start to finish. The film’s emotional core, along with its fast-paced, suspense-driven narrative, makes it much more than a typical thriller—it’s a richly rewarding cinematic experience.

In one of the most happening years for Malayalam cinema, Kishkindha Kaandam is a refreshing and intelligent addition to the genre, one that captivates with its atmosphere keeps you guessing with its plot, and resonates with its emotional depth. A must-watch for lovers of mystery and drama alike.