Last updated: 17 Jul 2026


Malayalam · Comedy, Drama, Musical
2h 39m · 23 Dec 1988
DOP: S. Kumar | Writer: Priyadarshan
Ratings
Our Rating
3.75
Chithram is a Malayalam comedy-drama centered around a young woman named Kalyani who is pressured by her family to marry. To avoid an arranged marriage, she concocts a plan involving a stranger, Vishnu, who pretends to be her husband. The story unfolds with a blend of humor, emotional moments, and unexpected twists as Vishnu's true identity and past are gradually revealed, leading to a heartfelt climax.
Chithram is a masterclass in blending comedy with emotional depth, showcasing a well-crafted screenplay that balances humor and sentiment seamlessly. The story is engaging, with clever twists that keep the audience invested throughout. The pacing is particularly strong in the first half, where the situational comedy and character interactions shine, while the second half deepens the emotional stakes, delivering a satisfying resolution.
The screenplay by Priyadarshan is tight and witty, with dialogues that enhance the comedic timing and character development. The film's narrative flow ensures that the audience remains entertained without any lag, making it a memorable cinematic experience.
Though the movie does not heavily rely on songs, the background score complements the mood perfectly, enhancing both the comedic and dramatic scenes. The music, while minimal, supports the storytelling without overwhelming it, allowing performances and screenplay to take center stage.
Overall, Chithram stands out for its engaging story, strong screenplay, and balanced pacing, making it a timeless classic in Malayalam cinema.
Mohanlal: Exceptional comic timing combined with emotional depth, delivering one of his career-best performances.
Ranjini: Convincing and charming portrayal of Kalyani, effectively balancing innocence and resolve.
Nedumudi Venu: Supportive role with nuanced acting that adds to the film's emotional layers.
Sreenivasan: Provides excellent comic relief with his characteristic subtle humor.
Strengths
Weaknesses
Priyadarshan's direction is precise and confident, expertly handling the mix of humor and emotion. His writing ensures a cohesive narrative that keeps the audience engaged from start to finish.
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Our Rating
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| Type | Value |
|---|---|
| Positive | High |
| Neutral | Moderate |
| Negative | Low |
Critics have widely praised Chithram for its engaging storyline, Mohanlal's charismatic performance, and Priyadarshan's deft direction. The film is often cited as a classic example of Malayalam cinema's golden era, balancing humor and emotion with finesse.
Final Box-Office Result
Chithram released on 23 December 1988 (1988).
Chithram is declared a SUPER HIT at the box office.
Chithram OTT release date not announced yet.
Chithram directed by Priyadarshan. Produced by P K R Pillai.
Chithram stars Mohanlal, Ranjini, Nedumudi Venu, Poornam Viswanathan, Sreenivasan.
Tollybo rates Chithram 3.75/5. Verdict: SUPER HIT.
Chithram — Genre: Comedy, Drama, Musical, Runtime: 159 minutes, Language: Malayalam.