“Athiran,” directed by Vivek Thomas Varghese, is a gripping psychological thriller movie that takes viewers on a haunting journey through the complexities of the human mind. Set in a remote mental asylum in Kerala, the film combines suspense, drama and mystery, making it an engaging watch.  

Fahadh Faasil is an actor playing lead as Dr. M. K. Nair, portraying his character with subtle intensity. Sai Pallavi delivers a mesmerizing performance as usual playing Nithya, depicting her innocence and inner strength with ease as autistic. Their on-screen chemistry adds depth to the narrative. 

The story weaves between the past and present, gradually revealing the dark secrets of the characters. Visually, the film is stunning. The lush Kerala landscapes contrast beautifully with the mysterious, confined spaces of the asylum, enhancing the mood. The haunting background score by Mohamaad Ghibran, the film’s music composer, heightens the tension, making every scene more gripping. 

Though the film is captivating, I felt some scenes were rushed, and certain plot points could have been explored further. Nithya and her father’s bond was really heartwarming, her father’s death was really intense and saddening. However, these minor flaws don’t take away from the overall experience. The more you watch through the movie it gets more interesting and reveals the past story. 

The point that enticed me is that it challenged societal views on autism and mental health, emphasizing understanding over isolation and family members support. However, it blends autism traits with psychological and supernatural elements, which may not reflect real-life autism accurately. 

If you enjoy psychological thrillers, this movie is for you. It has strong performances and an intriguing storyline. It offers a perfect blend of suspense, emotion and mystery that stays in your mind even after the movie ends. 

Edited by Stuti Khadka and Jayme Thompson