Chenkol (1993) Review – Rating, Verdict & Box Office | Tollybo
Last updated: 23 Apr 2026


Chenkol(1993)
Malayalam · Action, Drama
2h 43m · 4 Jul 1993
DOP: Venu | Writer: A K Lohithadas
Ratings
Our Rating
3.5
📖 Story
Chenkol is a poignant drama that continues the story from the critically acclaimed film Kireedam. It follows the life of Sethumadhavan, who struggles to rebuild his life after being wrongfully branded as a criminal. The narrative explores themes of fate, societal judgment, and the quest for redemption as Sethumadhavan grapples with his past and attempts to protect his family from further disgrace.
Chenkol presents a deeply emotional and intense storyline that delves into the tragic consequences of misunderstandings and societal pressures. The screenplay is tightly written, maintaining a somber and reflective tone throughout the film. The pacing is deliberate, with the first half setting up the emotional turmoil and the second half focusing on the protagonist's internal and external conflicts.
The film’s narrative is supported by strong character development, especially of the lead role, which adds depth to the story. The transition between the first and second halves is seamless, keeping the audience engaged with the unfolding drama. Although the film lacks commercial song sequences typical of Telugu cinema, the background score effectively amplifies the emotional weight of the scenes, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
The cinematography by Venu captures the bleak and somber mood of the film, complementing the narrative’s serious themes. The absence of typical musical numbers is compensated by a haunting background score that underscores the protagonist’s despair and hope. Overall, Chenkol is a compelling drama that relies on strong performances and a well-crafted screenplay rather than commercial elements.
Mohanlal: Powerful and nuanced portrayal of Sethumadhavan, conveying deep emotional conflict and vulnerability.
Thilakan: Strong supporting role, delivering a convincing and heartfelt performance.
Kaviyoor Ponnamma: Effective in a maternal role, adding emotional depth to the family dynamics.
💪 Strengths & Weaknesses
Strengths
- ✓Strong screenplay and character development
- ✓Powerful lead performance by Mohanlal
- ✓Effective use of background score to enhance mood
- ✓Cinematography that complements the film’s somber tone
Weaknesses
- ✕Lack of commercial song sequences may affect audience engagement
- ✕Deliberate pacing might feel slow to some viewers
🎬 Direction & Writing
Sibi Malayil’s direction is sensitive and restrained, focusing on emotional realism and character-driven storytelling. His writing complements the narrative’s serious themes, avoiding melodrama and maintaining a grounded tone throughout the film.
📰 Ratings Sources
No rating sources available.
Our Rating
💰 Box Office Collection
No collection data available yet.
🏛️ Centers & 🏅 Awards
No centers data available.
No awards data available.
😊 Sentiment Breakdown & 🧠 Critics
| Type | Value |
|---|---|
| Positive | — |
| Neutral | — |
| Negative | — |
Critics
Critics praised Chenkol for its mature storytelling and Mohanlal’s compelling performance. The film was noted for its emotional depth and realistic portrayal of societal issues, though some pointed out its slow pacing and lack of commercial elements as potential drawbacks.
Final Box-Office Result
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
When did Chenkol release in theatres?▾
Chenkol released on 4 July 1993 (1993).
Is Chenkol a hit or flop?▾
Chenkol is declared a SUPER HIT at the box office.
Where to watch Chenkol online? OTT release date?▾
Chenkol is available on Eros Now Select Apple TV Channel. OTT date will be updated soon.
Who directed Chenkol?▾
Chenkol directed by Sibi Malayil. Produced by Krishnakumar.
Who are the main cast members of Chenkol?▾
Chenkol stars Mohanlal, Thilakan, Kaviyoor Ponnamma, Usha, Surbhi Zaveri Vyas.
What is the Tollybo rating for Chenkol?▾
Tollybo rates Chenkol 3.5/5. Verdict: SUPER HIT.
What is the genre and runtime of Chenkol?▾
Chenkol — Genre: Action, Drama, Runtime: 163 minutes, Language: Malayalam.
