Pookkaalam (2023) Movie Review, Storyline, Cast & Ratings – A Heartwarming Family Drama
🎞️ Movie Overview
| Title | Pookkaalam |
| Language | Malayalam |
| Genre | Family Drama, Comedy |
| Release Date | April 8, 2023 |
| Director | Ganesh Raj |
| Producer | Vinod Shornur, Thomas Thiruvalla |
| Cast | Vijayaraghavan, KPAC Leela, Basil Joseph, Vineeth Sreenivasan, Annu Antony |
| Runtime | 137 minutes |
| IMDb Rating | 7.6/10 |
| Streaming On | Disney+ Hotstar |
📝 Introduction
Pookkaalam is a refreshing Malayalam family drama that explores love, trust, and companionship in the twilight years of life. Directed by Ganesh Raj (of Aanandam fame), it features a centenarian couple at the heart of a light yet layered narrative that beautifully portrays relationships across generations.
🎥 Detailed Plot Summary
On the day of his granddaughter Elsy’s engagement, 100-year-old Ittoop (Vijayaraghavan) discovers an old letter buried in his attic — one that stirs up forgotten emotions and shakes the foundations of his long marriage with Kochuthresia (KPAC Leela). What follows is a series of honest confrontations, humorous miscommunications, and heartfelt moments that involve the entire family.
As the family navigates the emotional shock, secrets are revealed, relationships are tested, and the audience is taken through a bittersweet journey that celebrates both the beauty and fragility of human bonds.
🎭 Performance Analysis
Vijayaraghavan delivers one of his most memorable performances, portraying a 100-year-old man with vulnerability and warmth. KPAC Leela is equally compelling as Kochuthresia, bringing grace to a character that balances humor and emotional complexity. Basil Joseph, Vineeth Sreenivasan, and others provide effective support, adding youthful energy to the otherwise mature narrative.
🎵 Music & Cinematography
The soothing soundtrack by Sachin Warrier blends seamlessly with the emotional tone of the film. Melodic tracks play a significant role in enhancing key scenes, particularly those involving flashbacks and emotional turning points.
The cinematography by Anend C. Chandran captures the warmth of Kerala homes, lush exteriors, and intimate family moments with a soft, natural light that matches the tone of the story.
⭐ IMDb Rating & Public Reception
With an IMDb rating of 7.6/10, Pookkaalam has been well-received by critics and audiences alike. Viewers praised its emotional depth, clean humor, and focus on elderly characters — a rarity in mainstream Malayalam cinema. Critics appreciated the blend of drama and light comedy, while families enjoyed its multi-generational appeal.
🔍 SEO Keywords to Target
- Pookkaalam movie review 2023
- Malayalam family drama movies
- Vijayaraghavan latest film
- Ganesh Raj director movies
- Where to watch Pookkaalam online
- Disney+ Hotstar Malayalam films
- KPAC Leela Malayalam movies
- Pookkaalam IMDb rating
📝 Final Verdict: Should You Watch It?
Pookkaalam is a charming and emotionally rich family drama that shines a light on elderly characters often overlooked in cinema. It’s a story of love, regret, and togetherness told with grace and a touch of humor. A perfect watch for those seeking heartfelt storytelling with cultural and emotional depth.
Verdict: Must-watch for Malayalam cinema lovers and fans of feel-good family dramas.
📺 Where to Watch
Pookkaalam is currently streaming on Disney+ Hotstar. Available in Malayalam with subtitles.
