“Thudarum,” the latest Mohanlal-starrer, is defying expectations. After a rather subdued theatrical debut, the film has found a massive second life on streaming, rocketting to the top of trending charts across Google and social media. Its recent release on JioHotstar in five languages—Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Hindi—has turned a modest success into a bona fide digital phenomenon.
What Fuels the “Thudarum” Buzz? A Deep Dive:
Synopsis: A Driver’s Desperate Journey in the Misty Hills of Ranni Set against the evocative backdrop of the misty town of Ranni, “Thudarum” plunges viewers into the life of Shanmughan, affectionately known as “Benz” (portrayed by the ever-reliable Mohanlal). His quiet existence as a taxi driver is violently upended when his beloved Ambassador car is impounded due to suspected criminal links. What unfolds is a gripping, gritty thriller, masterfully weaving elements of crime drama with poignant personal stakes, creating a narrative that’s as emotionally resonant as it is suspenseful.
The Iconic Reunion: Mohanlal and Shobana Reignite the Screen One of the most significant draws, and a major catalyst for the current buzz, is the long-awaited reunion of cinematic stalwarts Mohanlal and Shobana after a remarkable 16-year hiatus. Their undeniable chemistry, a hallmark of Malayalam cinema for decades, remains potent. Critics have widely lauded how their scenes inject an electrifying energy into the film, elevating an otherwise slow-burning narrative and providing moments of genuine depth and connection.
From Box Office Stability to Streaming Dominance: The “Thudarum” Trajectory When “Thudarum” hit cinemas on April 25, 2025, it performed respectably, reportedly raking in over ₹200 crore globally. While not an explosive opening, its consistent performance laid the groundwork. However, the film’s true moment in the sun has undoubtedly arrived post-theatrical release, with its digital premiere unlocking unprecedented levels of engagement and discussion.
The Anatomy of a Trend: Why “Thudarum” is Everywhere Right Now
- Pan-Indian Accessibility: The strategic multi-language streaming release on JioHotstar has flung open the doors, introducing “Thudarum” to a much wider, diverse audience beyond its core Malayalam-speaking demographic.
- Organic Word-of-Mouth: Social media platforms like Reddit, Twitter (now X), and various film forums are abuzz with discussions, reviews, and recommendations. This organic word-of-mouth has been crucial in building momentum.
- The Power of Nostalgia and Chemistry: The magnetic pairing of Mohanlal and Shobana is a significant talking point. Fans are revisiting the film purely to witness their comeback, sparking curiosity among new viewers.
- Google Trends Spike: Data from Google Trends confirms a substantial surge in search volume for “Thudarum” since its OTT debut, reflecting the burgeoning public interest and widespread discovery.
The Verdict: A Must-Watch for Thriller Aficionados
“Thudarum” may not be hailed as a revolutionary cinematic masterpiece, but it firmly establishes itself as a compelling, solid entry in the Malayalam thriller genre. Bolstered by strong, nuanced performances, moody and atmospheric visuals, and a meticulously crafted, tightly wound script, the film consistently holds its audience captive. Now that it’s taken the streaming world by storm, “Thudarum” is undeniably worth adding to your watchlist.
