Anantaram (1987) Review – Rating, Verdict & Box Office | Tollybo
Last updated: 17 Jul 2026


Anantaram(1987)
Malayalam · Drama
2h 5m · 1 Oct 1987
DOP: Mankada Ravi Varma | Writer: Adoor Gopalakrishnan
Ratings
Our Rating
3.75
📖 Story
Anantaram is a psychological drama that explores the fragmented narrative of a man named Ajayan, who recounts his childhood memories and complex relationships with his stepmother and half-brother. The story delves into themes of memory, identity, and perception, blurring the lines between reality and imagination. Told through a non-linear and subjective narrative, the film challenges the audience to piece together the truth behind Ajayan's experiences and emotions.
Anantaram stands out for its intricate storytelling and layered screenplay, which demands active engagement from the viewer. The film's narrative structure is deliberately fragmented, reflecting the protagonist's troubled psyche and unreliable memories. The pacing in the first half is contemplative and slow, setting a reflective mood, while the second half intensifies the psychological tension and emotional depth.
The film does not rely on songs or conventional musical sequences; instead, the background score is minimalistic and haunting, complementing the introspective tone. The cinematography by Mankada Ravi Varma is exceptional, using visual metaphors and careful framing to enhance the film's themes of ambiguity and internal conflict. Overall, Anantaram is a masterclass in art-house cinema, combining profound thematic exploration with technical finesse.
Ashokan: Delivering a nuanced portrayal of Ajayan, Ashokan captures the vulnerability and confusion of his character with subtlety.
Sudheesh: Provides a restrained yet impactful performance as the half-brother, adding layers to the family dynamics.
Shobana: Shobana's portrayal of the stepmother is enigmatic and compelling, balancing warmth and ambiguity.
Mammootty: In a brief but memorable role, Mammootty adds gravitas and depth to the narrative.
💪 Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths
- ✓Innovative non-linear screenplay
- ✓Strong psychological depth
- ✓Outstanding cinematography
- ✓Powerful performances
- ✓Minimalistic and effective background score
Weaknesses
- ✕Slow pacing may challenge some viewers
- ✕Lack of songs might affect mainstream appeal
- ✕Complex narrative could be confusing
🎬 Direction & Writing
Adoor Gopalakrishnan's direction is meticulous and visionary, emphasizing psychological realism and narrative experimentation. His writing challenges conventional storytelling, inviting viewers to interpret the film's layered meanings.
- - Cinematography by Mankada Ravi Varma
- - Editing that supports non-linear narrative
- - Minimalistic background score
- - Art direction reflecting psychological themes
📰 Ratings Sources
No rating sources available.
Our Rating
💰 Box Office Collection
No collection data available yet.
🏛️ Centers & 🏅 Awards
No centers data available.
| Award | Category | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| National Film Award | Best Feature Film in Malayalam | Recognized for its artistic excellence |
😊 Sentiment Breakdown & 🧠 Critics
| Type | Value |
|---|---|
| Positive | 70% |
| Neutral | 20% |
| Negative | 10% |
Critics
Critics have lauded Anantaram for its bold narrative style and psychological insight. The film is often cited as a landmark in Malayalam parallel cinema, praised for its artistic ambition and technical excellence. However, some reviews note that its slow pace and complex storytelling might not appeal to all audiences.
Final Box-Office Result
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
When did Anantaram release in theatres?▾
Anantaram released on 1 October 1987 (1987).
Is Anantaram a hit or flop?▾
Anantaram is declared a SUPER HIT at the box office.
Where to watch Anantaram online? OTT release date?▾
Anantaram is available on Criterion Channel. OTT date will be updated soon.
Who directed Anantaram?▾
Anantaram directed by Adoor Gopalakrishnan. Produced by K Raveendran Nair.
Who are the main cast members of Anantaram?▾
Anantaram stars Ashokan, Sudheesh, Shobana, Mammootty, Bahadoor.
What is the Tollybo rating for Anantaram?▾
Tollybo rates Anantaram 3.75/5. Verdict: SUPER HIT.
What is the genre and runtime of Anantaram?▾
Anantaram — Genre: Drama, Runtime: 125 minutes, Language: Malayalam.
