Last updated: 8 May 2026


Malayalam · Drama, Romance
2h 15m · 8 Mar 2018
Music: Rex Vijayan, Neha Nair, Yakzan Gary Pereira | DOP: Jayesh Mohan | Writer: Dileesh Nair, Syam Pushkaran
Ratings
Our Rating
3.5
Mayaanadhi is a Malayalam romantic drama that explores the complex relationship between Maathan, a small-time criminal, and Aparna, an aspiring actress. The film delves into their emotional struggles, aspirations, and the harsh realities they face in life. It portrays their love story with a realistic and nuanced approach, highlighting the conflicts between dreams and circumstances.
Mayaanadhi stands out for its mature and sensitive storytelling, blending romance with elements of crime and personal ambition. The screenplay is tightly woven, with a natural flow that captures the emotional depth of the characters without resorting to melodrama. The pacing is deliberate, allowing the audience to immerse themselves in the evolving dynamics between the leads.
The first half sets the tone with a focus on character development and their initial bonding, while the second half intensifies the narrative with heightened conflicts and emotional stakes. The film's music, composed by Rex Vijayan, Neha Nair, and Yakzan Gary Pereira, complements the mood beautifully, with songs that are both soulful and situational. The background score subtly enhances the tension and intimacy without overpowering the scenes.
Cinematography by Jayesh Mohan adds a lyrical quality to the visuals, capturing the urban milieu and intimate moments with equal finesse. Overall, Mayaanadhi is a poignant and realistic portrayal of love and life, marked by strong performances and a thoughtful creative approach.
Tovino Thomas: Delivering a restrained and compelling portrayal of Maathan, Tovino brings depth and authenticity to the conflicted character.
Aishwarya Lekshmi: Aishwarya shines as Aparna, balancing vulnerability and strength with a naturalistic performance that anchors the film emotionally.
Strengths
Weaknesses
Aashiq Abu's direction is nuanced and restrained, focusing on character-driven storytelling. His writing and vision bring out the emotional subtleties of the narrative, avoiding clichés and melodrama.
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Our Rating
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| Type | Value |
|---|---|
| Positive | 85% |
| Neutral | 10% |
| Negative | 5% |
Mayaanadhi received widespread critical acclaim for its realistic portrayal of romance and strong performances. Critics praised the film's screenplay, direction, and music, highlighting it as a standout Malayalam film of 2018. The mature narrative and emotional depth were noted as refreshing in contemporary cinema.
Final Box-Office Result
Mayaanadhi released on 8 March 2018 (2018).
Mayaanadhi is declared a SUPER HIT at the box office.
Mayaanadhi is available on aha from 18 December 2020.
Mayaanadhi directed by Aashiq Abu. Produced by Aashiq Abu, Santhosh T. Kuruvilla.
Mayaanadhi stars Tovino Thomas, Aishwarya Lekshmi.
Tollybo rates Mayaanadhi 3.5/5. Verdict: SUPER HIT.
Music for Mayaanadhi composed by Rex Vijayan, Neha Nair, Yakzan Gary Pereira.
Mayaanadhi — Genre: Drama, Romance, Runtime: 135 minutes, Language: Malayalam.