Moppala

Moppala, directed by Santhosh Puthukkunnu, is a searing cultural drama that interrogates the intersections of caste, legacy, and identity in Kerala. The story follows Devanandan, a boy passionate about Theyyam but excluded from performing it due to his inter-caste lineage. The film portrays the emotional turmoil of both Devanandan and his grandfather, Ambhu Panickar (played with subtle brilliance by Santhosh Keezhattoor), who struggles to uphold tradition while watching his grandson suffer. Puthukkunnu's direction is restrained yet powerful, with each frame steeped in meaning. The final shot, where Devanandan silently walks away adorned in Theyyam attire, is an image of defiance and liberation. Moppala is not just a story; it's a mirror reflecting uncomfortable truths.

Moppala delivers a powerful emotional punch with its story of Devanandan, a boy whose love for the traditional Theyyam art form is crushed by the rigid rules of caste. The narrative is deeply personal, yet the social commentary it makes is universal and timeless. Santhosh Keezhattoor's performance is deeply moving, portraying a grandfather struggling with the shame and helplessness of watching history repeat its cruel patterns. The climax is brilliant - Devanandan walking away, dressed in full Theyyam costume, is one of the most symbolic and emotional moments I've seen in Malayalam cinema this year. I highly recommend this film for its sincerity, cultural richness, and ability to leave a lasting impression.

A Bold Commentary Wrapped in Ritual and Colour!

Rooted in Culture, Soaring with Emotion!

Tradition Meets Rebellion in This Theyyam-Centric Drama!

Moppala is a poignant reflection of the cultural and social struggles rooted in Kerala's caste matrix. Santhosh Puthukkunnu crafts a deeply affecting tale of tradition and defiance through the story of Devanandan. Santhosh Keezhattoor delivers a mature, understated performance as Ambhu Panickar, embodying the weight of legacy and sorrow. The film's climax - where Devanandan walks away adorned in Theyyam regalia - is a haunting metaphor for reclaiming silenced identities. Unmissable.

In Moppala, Santhosh Puthukkunnu confronts one of the most painful questions in Indian society - who decides who is worthy of tradition? The film follows Devanandan, born from an inter-caste marriage, who is passionately drawn to Theyyam but barred from participating in it. The pain is shared by his grandfather, Ambhu Panickar, portrayed beautifully by Santhosh Keezhattoor. This is a film that breathes in rhythm and ritual, but exhales a quiet rebellion. The pacing is meditative, giving weight to every stare, silence, and gesture. Moppala doesn't offer easy answers - it offers difficult truths. An artistic protest against systemic exclusion.

Santhosh Puthukkunnu's Moppala doesn't shout - it sears. It quietly dismantles the glorified narratives of tradition to expose their discriminatory foundations. The film tells the story of Devanandan, who is barred from performing Theyyam due to his inter-caste origins, despite his deep passion and talent. His silent rebellion - leaving the village fully dressed as a Theyyam deity - is a moment of sheer cinematic power. Santhosh Keezhattoor delivers a remarkable performance that gives soul to the internal struggle of Ambhu Panickar. Every shot feels like a mural, rich with color and pain. Moppala is not just a film - it's resistance etched in ritual, a cry for inclusivity wrapped in sacred flames.