Last updated: 8 May 2026


Real Heroes are Always Alone
Malayalam · Thriller
2h 2m · 26 Jan 2023
Music: Biby Mathew, Eldhose Alias | DOP: Abinandhan Ramanujam, Pramod K Pillai | Writer: Rajesh Jayaraman
Ratings
Our Rating
1.25
Alone is a Malayalam thriller that revolves around the mysterious disappearance of a woman and the subsequent investigation that unravels dark secrets. The story delves into themes of trust, betrayal, and survival, with a narrative that keeps the audience guessing until the climax.
Alone attempts to blend suspense with emotional drama, anchored by a story that unfolds through a series of twists and revelations. The screenplay is structured to maintain intrigue, though certain plot points feel predictable. The pacing in the first half is steady, setting up characters and conflicts effectively, but the second half tends to drag with extended sequences that dilute the tension.
The film benefits from strong performances by the lead actors, which add depth to the otherwise conventional narrative. The songs are minimal and situational, serving more as narrative devices than standalone musical pieces. The background score by Biby Mathew and Eldhose Alias complements the thriller elements well, enhancing the mood without overpowering scenes.
Cinematography by Abinandhan Ramanujam and Pramod K Pillai captures the atmospheric tension suitably, though the visual style remains functional rather than innovative. Overall, Alone is a moderately engaging thriller that caters to fans of the genre but falls short of delivering a consistently gripping experience.
Mohanlal: Strong and nuanced, bringing gravitas to the lead role.
Manju Warrier: Compelling and emotive, effectively portraying vulnerability and strength.
Renji Panicker: Solid supporting role with impactful moments.
Siddique: Reliable performance adding credibility to the narrative.
Strengths
Weaknesses
Shaji Kailas delivers a competent thriller with a focus on character-driven storytelling, though the direction occasionally lacks the tautness required for sustained suspense. The writing is straightforward but could have benefited from tighter editing and more innovative narrative choices.
| Source | Rating |
|---|---|
| 3.00 / 5 | |
| 3.25 / 5 | |
| 2.75 / 5 | |
| 3.00 / 5 |
Our Rating
No collection data available yet.
No centers data available.
No awards data available.
| Type | Value |
|---|---|
| Positive | 40% |
| Neutral | 35% |
| Negative | 25% |
Critics appreciated the performances of Mohanlal and Manju Warrier and the atmospheric score, but many pointed out the film's predictable storyline and uneven pacing as major drawbacks. The technical aspects were generally well-received, though the screenplay was seen as conventional.
Final Box-Office Result
Alone released on 26 January 2023 (2023).
Alone is declared a DISASTER at the box office.
Alone OTT release date not announced yet.
Alone directed by Shaji Kailas. Produced by Antony Perumbavoor.
Alone stars Mohanlal, Manju Warrier.
Tollybo rates Alone 1.25/5. Verdict: DISASTER.
Music for Alone composed by Biby Mathew, Eldhose Alias.
Alone — Genre: Thriller, Runtime: 122 minutes, Language: Malayalam.