Sobharaj offers a traditional narrative that balances drama and action, characteristic of Malayalam cinema in the mid-1980s. The screenplay is straightforward, focusing on the protagonist's journey with clear moral undertones. The pacing is steady, with the first half establishing characters and conflicts effectively, while the second half intensifies the drama and delivers the resolution with adequate tension.

The film's music by L. Vaidyanathan complements the emotional beats, with songs that fit well within the narrative though they do not particularly stand out as chartbusters. The background score supports the mood transitions, enhancing the dramatic and action sequences without overpowering them.

Cinematography by N A Thara captures the rustic setting authentically, adding to the film's grounded feel. While the film does not experiment much with narrative style or technical innovation, it remains a solid entertainer for its time, driven largely by Mohanlal's compelling screen presence.

Mohanlal: Strong and convincing portrayal of Sobharaj, bringing depth and intensity to the character.

T G Ravi: Effective as the antagonist, providing a credible foil to the protagonist.

Madhavi: Delivers a sincere performance with emotional nuance.