Last updated: 8 May 2026
Malayalam · Action, Drama, Thriller
2h 11m · 20 Sept 2018
Music: Sushin Shyam | DOP: Littil Swayamp | Writer: Suhas, Sharfuddeen
Ratings
Our Rating
3
Varathan is a Malayalam thriller that revolves around Abin and Priya, a couple who move to Priya's ancestral home in a remote village. Their peaceful life is disrupted when they face harassment and threats from local goons. The story explores themes of paranoia, survival, and the reclaiming of personal space as Abin takes matters into his own hands to protect his family.
Varathan delivers a gripping narrative that blends elements of thriller and social commentary. The screenplay is taut and well-structured, maintaining suspense throughout the film. The first half effectively builds tension by establishing the couple's relationship and the eerie atmosphere of the village, while the second half escalates the conflict with intense confrontations and a satisfying resolution.
The pacing is deliberate, allowing the audience to immerse in the psychological aspects of the story without rushing the plot. The film's music, composed by Sushin Shyam, complements the narrative with a subtle yet impactful background score that heightens the suspense and emotional beats. The songs are minimal but well-placed, enhancing the mood without disrupting the flow.
Cinematography by Littil Swayamp captures the rustic beauty of the village alongside the claustrophobic tension experienced by the protagonists. Overall, Varathan stands out for its strong narrative, effective use of thriller elements, and a compelling background score that supports the film's tone perfectly.
Fahadh Faasil: Powerful and nuanced portrayal of a protective husband evolving into a fierce defender.
Aishwarya Lekshmi: Convincing and emotive as the vulnerable yet resilient wife.
Sharafudheen: Effective in a supporting role adding depth to the village dynamics.
Strengths
Weaknesses
Amal Neerad's direction is confident and stylish, successfully blending thriller elements with social themes. His writing keeps the audience engaged with a well-balanced mix of suspense and emotional depth.
| Source | Rating |
|---|---|
| 4.00 / 5 | |
| 3.50 / 5 | |
| 4.00 / 5 |
Our Rating
No collection data available yet.
No centers data available.
No awards data available.
| Type | Value |
|---|---|
| Positive | 75% |
| Neutral | 15% |
| Negative | 10% |
Critics praised Varathan for its taut screenplay, strong performances, especially by Fahadh Faasil, and the effective use of thriller tropes. The film's atmospheric tension and technical finesse were highlighted as key strengths. Some noted minor pacing issues but overall regarded it as a gripping and well-crafted thriller.
Final Box-Office Result
Varathan released on 20 September 2018 (2018).
Varathan is declared a ABOVE AVERAGE at the box office.
Varathan OTT release date not announced yet.
Varathan directed by Amal Neerad. Produced by Amal Neerad, Nazriya Nazim, Fahadh Faasil.
Varathan stars Fahadh Faasil, Aishwarya Lekshmi.
Tollybo rates Varathan 3/5. Verdict: ABOVE AVERAGE.
Music for Varathan composed by Sushin Shyam.
Varathan — Genre: Action, Drama, Thriller, Runtime: 131 minutes, Language: Malayalam.
