'Narivetta' to release on May 23: What to expect from the new Tovino Thomas-starrer

"When the system betrays, the Revolution begins." Tovino described Narivetta as a political drama, emphasising the importance of discussing its themes boldly and openly.

A political thriller featuring Tovino Thomas, Suraj Venjaramoodu, and Cheran in lead roles, Narivetta is set for release on May 23. Cheran, a four-time National Film Award winner, is marking his Malayalam debut with this film directed by Anuraj Manohar and written by Abin Joseph. Tippushan and Shiyas Hassan are producing it under the banner of Indian Cinema Company.

The film explores how power structures established to protect people can evolve into systems of control, specifically targeting marginalised communities. The trailer hints at land dispute-related conflicts between villagers and police, and the film is said to be inspired by real-life events. In Narivetta, he plays a lower-ranking police officer, whereas Cheran plays a senior police officer.

In the footage, we see the police dragging a handcuffed man, later revealed to be one of those fighting against the system, as the police demolish huts that they claim were built illegally on forest land. When questioned later, he appears too frightened to acknowledge the police's involvement, highlighting the deep fear instilled in people of such oppressed communities. As the story unfolds, a standoff emerges between the police and the tribal villagers, who are steadfast in refusing to leave their land, claiming that if they die, they wish to die on their land. Cheran's character later finds that Maoist groups back the tribal leaders and help them conduct coordinated and powerful protests.

Film buffs expect a strong entertainer from Tovino Thomas after his recent releases Identity and Ajayante Randam Moshanam.

The title Narivetta suggests layers of symbolism, inviting a deeper exploration of its meaning within the context of the film. The film recently cleared censors with a U/A certificate. 

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