Kishkindha Kaandam, directed by Dinjith Ayyathan, is an intense psychological thriller that masterfully blends family drama with a sense of creeping unease. Set against the backdrop of a house enveloped by thick greenery, the film revolves around the lives of an ex-army officer, Appu Pillai (Vijayaraghavan), his son Ajayan (Asif Ali), and his daughter-in-law Aparna (Aparna Balamurali). As the story slowly unfolds, it becomes clear that more than just unresolved family tensions are simmering beneath the surface.

Plot: 

At the heart of Kishkindha Kaandam lies a tightly wound family dynamic, marked by the strict and overbearing presence of Appu Pillai. A retired military officer, Pillai’s sternness and rigid discipline create an oppressive atmosphere in the household. His son, Ajayan, takes this harsh treatment in stride, but there’s an unspoken tension that makes you question what else is at play. Ajayan and his new wife Aparna return to this environment after a quiet, low-key wedding, and it is through Aparna’s eyes that we gradually start to unravel the mystery surrounding the family.

Appu Pillai’s missing licensed gun becomes a key plot point, setting off a series of events that lead to the slow reveal of deeper, more personal secrets. The presence of the gun introduces an element of danger, keeping the audience on edge as the tension within the family continues to mount. The film moves deliberately, placing clues throughout that suggest the lush, green surroundings are more than just a scenic backdrop—they symbolize the characters’ tangled relationships and hidden pasts.

Performances:

The film’s success is largely anchored by the powerhouse performances of its cast. Vijayaraghavandelivers one of his finest roles to date as the unyielding, eccentric patriarch. His portrayal of Appu Pillai is filled with nuance, capturing both the physicality and psychological depth of a man who has been shaped by his military past. Vijayaraghavan skillfully switches between moments of quiet introspection and sharp, confrontational outbursts, making his character both intriguing and unsettling.

Asif Ali, playing Ajayan, embodies a man who is accustomed to his father’s unpredictability and unyielding nature. His performance is marked by restraint, subtly showing the toll that this relationship takes on him without ever overplaying his hand. It’s in the film’s third act where Asif truly shines, as Ajayan struggles with his own hidden truths while maintaining his role as the dutiful son.

Aparna Balamurali brings depth and agency to her role as the inquisitive and assertive daughter-in-law, whose perspective drives much of the film’s narrative. Rather than being a passive observer, her character is deeply involved in the story’s unfolding, and her persistent curiosity about her father-in-law’s secretive behavior adds to the tension. Aparna’s performance is both strong and emotionally resonant, making her character a vital part of the film’s intricate web of relationships.

The supporting cast, including Jagadish, Ashokan, and Nishan (in a comeback role), also deliver solid performances that help flesh out the world of the film. Each character contributes to the overall mood of mystery and unease.

Technical Merits:

Dinjith Ayyathan’s direction is deliberate, allowing the suspense to build gradually without relying on cheap thrills or forced exposition. The pacing may feel slow to some, but it is this careful unfolding of the story that keeps the audience engaged, constantly theorizing about the true nature of the characters and their motivations. Dinjith’s handling of the psychological aspects of the film is especially commendable, as he doesn’t just focus on the mystery but also on the emotional and psychological toll of the family’s history on each character.

Bahul Ramesh’s screenplay, combined with his work as the cinematographer, is a standout element of the film. The story is told with a subtlety that respects the intelligence of the audience, providing information on a need-to-know basis rather than overloading the viewer with unnecessary details. This creates a constant sense of intrigue, as we are left guessing about the motivations and pasts of the characters until the very end. Ramesh’s use of visuals enhances the film’s themes, with the dense forest and the encroaching greenery around the house becoming a metaphor for the secrets that surround and suffocate the characters.

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Visually, Kishkindha Kaandam is stunning. Bahul Ramesh’s cinematography captures both the beauty and the ominousness of the setting. The house, nestled deep in the forest, feels isolated, which adds to the tension as the story progresses. The constant presence of monkeys in the surrounding forest serves as a reminder of the wild, untamed nature of both the environment and the characters’ internal struggles.

Mujeeb Majeed's haunting score further amplifies the atmosphere, although at times, it can overshadow the more subtle moments.

Verdict:

Kishkindha Kaandam is a finely crafted psychological thriller that successfully keeps the audience guessing while exploring the darker sides of human nature and family dynamics. Its strong performances, particularly by Vijayaraghavan and Asif Ali, combined with Dinjith Ayyathan’s skillful direction, make it a standout entry in Malayalam cinema. While the pacing may feel slow at times, it’s a necessary choice to build the film’s underlying tension and mystery.

For those who appreciate a well-constructed narrative with emotional weight, Kishkindha Kaandam offers a unique blend of drama and suspense, marking it as a must-watch for fans of psychological thrillers. Though not entirely flawless, it leaves a lasting impression, resonating long after the credits roll.