One of the best Malayalam Movies of 2024 That No One is Talking About!
Level Cross Review – Every now and then Malayalam cinema delivers a film so captivating yet so understated that it risks being forgotten amid the noise of mainstream releases. Level Cross is exactly that kind of movie—a psychological thriller brimming with mystery, layered performances, and a haunting atmosphere that stays with you long after the credits roll.
What is surprising is how no one seems to be talking about it.
The film begins at a deserted level crossing, where Raghu (Asif Ali) spends his days running the gates for passing trains. His monotonous life takes a dramatic turn when Chaitali (Amala Paul), falls off a train and lands in his world. What follows is a complex, mind-bending narrative that keeps you guessing at every turn, exploring the boundaries between reality and imagination.
A Rashomon-Style Narrative
At its core, Level Cross plays with perspectives—a masterful use of the Rashomon effect that draws you into the minds of its three main characters: Raghu, Chaitali, and Zincho (Sharaf U Dheen). Each of them is grappling with their real and imagined selves, making it nearly impossible to trust anyone’s version of events. The brilliance lies in how the story forces you to constantly reassess your understanding of the characters and their motives.
Asif Ali’s Career-Defining Performance?
Let’s talk about the performances—because this is where the film truly shines. While Sharaf U Dheen and Amala Paul bring the right mix of intrigue and intensity to their roles, it’s Asif Ali who steals the show. From the first scene, he commands your attention with a performance so nuanced and transformative. He is unrecognizable and completely into the character. His body language, his expressions, and even his silences are meticulously crafted to portray Raghu’s mysterious mind. If he doesn’t bag a few awards for this role, it would genuinely be a travesty.
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Atmosphere That Creeps Under Your Skin
Adding to the film’s unsettling vibe is the impeccable sound design by Jayadevan Chakkadath and an evocative score by Vishal Chandrashekar. The background music amplifies the tension and immerses you in Raghu’s desolate world.
Level Cross is Flawed, But Compelling
That’s not to say the film is without its flaws. Raghu and Chaitali’s relationship oscillates between intriguing and borderline unrealistic. At times, their dynamic feels undercooked, leaving you wanting more clarity. However, this minor hiccup doesn’t take away from the overall experience.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss This Film
If you loved Munnariyippu for its quiet yet gripping storytelling, Level Cross will feel like a natural extension of that cinematic style. It’s a film that trusts its audience to think, interpret, and connect the dots—a rarity in today’s spoon-fed narratives.
In an era where films are judged by their box office numbers or flashy promotions, Level Cross is a reminder of what Malayalam cinema does best: telling stories that matter, with depth and artistry. It’s one of the finest films of 2024 that, sadly, went under the radar.
So, if you’re looking for a movie that challenges your perceptions and keeps you on edge, make sure to give Level Cross a watch. And when you do, prepare to be haunted—not by ghosts, but by the lingering question of what’s real and what’s not.
I have tried to keep this Level Cross review as spoiler-free as possible 🙂 Watch the movie, come back and let me know what you think in the comments below.
Level Cross is streaming on Amazon Prime Video
I can’t stop talking about films, so I blog!
I started The FourthWall, my film blog, to share my thoughts on films and shows with fellow movie buffs, and over the years it has become my happy place. Come join in for some interesting conversations on cinema… and sometimes books and fashion!
