In a vibrant return to the silver screen, director Khalid Rahman has unveiled his latest project, the sports comedy film Alappuzha Gymkhana, which premiered in theaters on April 10, 2025. Following the success of his previous hit, Thallumaala, Rahman's new film has already garnered significant attention, particularly among younger audiences, thanks to its engaging storyline and a charismatic performance by lead actor Naslen Gafoor.
Alappuzha Gymkhana tells the story of a group of mischievous college students who, in a bid to secure their place in a college through a boxing quota, initially fake their way into the sport. However, their deception is soon uncovered by their strict coach, leading them into a rigorous training regimen. This coming-of-age comedy features a diverse cast, including Ganapathi, Lukman Avaran, Sandeep Pradeep, Anagha Ravi, and Franco Francis, all of whom contribute to the film's dynamic energy.
The film, produced by Plan B Motion Pictures and Realistic Studio, has already made waves, with its trailer amassing over five million views prior to its release. The excitement surrounding the film is palpable, and it has been described by some netizens as this year's "Vishnu Winner," a term used to denote films that provide complete entertainment. One Twitter user praised the film, stating, "Khalid Rahman strikes again with a clean entertainer! Good first half, banger second. Ticks all the boxes for a colorful ride. Spot on casting, go and experience in packed cinema!"
Running for a total of 2 hours and 30 minutes, Alappuzha Gymkhana is not just a simple comedy; it dives into themes of identity and personal growth. The protagonist, a 19-year-old grappling with an identity crisis and a complicated love life, finds himself unexpectedly thrust into the state boxing championship, aiming to earn grace marks. Under the tough guidance of his coach Joshua, he and his band of misfit classmates undergo a transformation from novices to determined contenders, facing not just fierce rivals but also their own inner demons.
Initial reviews for the film have been largely positive, with audiences praising its humor and youthful energy. Many viewers have highlighted the film's technical aspects, with one user commenting, "Technically the film is top-notch. Lags at points, but the boxing aspect is excellently done. #Naslen steals the show." Another user echoed this sentiment, noting, "A lot of moments to laugh… Khalid Rahman strikes again with a clean entertainer!"
However, not all feedback has been glowing. Some viewers have pointed out that while the film is entertaining, it may not be an extraordinary spectacle. One Twitter review mentioned, "So #AlappuzhaGymkhana was good but not an excellent outing. There were a couple of high moments, and that's that. For me, ⅗." This sentiment was echoed by others who felt that the film, while enjoyable, lacked depth and completeness.
As the film continues to screen in theaters, it faces stiff competition from Mammootty's action-thriller Bazooka, which also premiered on the same day. Despite this, Alappuzha Gymkhana has reportedly collected an estimated ₹66 lakh until noon on its opening day, indicating a strong start at the box office. The movie's potential to cross ₹50 crores is being discussed among fans, especially considering Naslen's previous success with Premalu, which received acclaim from audiences, including those from the Telugu film industry.
The film's crew also deserves mention. The cinematography is handled by Jimshi Khalid, while the music is composed by Vishnu Vijay. The screenplay is co-written by Rahman and Sreeni Saseendran, with dialogues penned by Ratheesh Ravi. This collaborative effort has resulted in a film that resonates with its audience, blending comedy with the thrills of sports.
In summary, Alappuzha Gymkhana is shaping up to be a noteworthy addition to the Malayalam film landscape. With its mix of humor, sports, and youthful exuberance, it appeals to a broad audience, particularly the younger demographic. As the film continues to draw viewers, it will be interesting to see how it performs against its competition and whether it can maintain the momentum generated by its strong opening.
