Horror thrillers with engrossing screenplays and pleasing performances are a rarity, unfortunately. If you are a fan of the genre, we will be introducing you to an underrated Malayalam horror film that should be at the top of your weekend watchlist.
The movie we are talking about is the recently released Aishwarya Lekshmi starrer film ‘Kumari‘. Set in a faraway village where deities, devils, and magic still exist, the fantasy film follows Kumari, played by Aishwarya. Having come to live in the land upon her marriage to a native, the movie has a rich folklore and the storytelling is highly stylish, with a chilling background score. While the movie couldn’t find a wide audience in the theatres, the movie got positive reviews from critics. While it has its flaws, if you are someone who is interested in the lore of gods, demons, and black magic, the movie is definitely worth a watch.
Aishwarya Lekshmi in the title role gives a good performance as Kumari. Whether it’s inquisitiveness, intrigue, rage, or commitment, the actress is at her best on screen. After her critically acclaimed performance in Prime Video’s ‘Ammu’, this movie is a fine addition to her filmography.
Kumari, besides Aishwarya also stars Shine Tom Chacko, Tanvi Ram, Swasika, Surabhi Lakshmi, and Rahul Madhav While Shine holds his own opposite Aishwarya, it is National Award winner Surabhi who surprises us in a never seen before avatar. Director Nirmal Sahadev has successfully combined lore into compelling storytelling. The cinematography of the movie is also praise-worthy.
The movie is currently streaming on Netflix. So jump onto your couch, pick up your popcorn, and do give this Malayalam thriller a watch.