Mohanlal is back with a bang in the trailer for his upcoming film, Thudarum, which promises a heartfelt family drama that dives deep into the life of a taxi driver. Released on March 26, 2025, the trailer showcases the film's lighthearted yet emotional narrative centered around Mohanlal's character, Shanmugham, and his cherished black Ambassador car.
The nearly two-minute-long trailer begins with Shanmugham reminiscing about his school days, sharing a humorous exchange with his friend, Maniyanpilla Raju, who teases Shanmugham for his school attendance. This sets the tone for a film that will blend humor with significant emotional themes, as Shanmugham juggles his life as a taxi driver and husband.
What makes Thudarum particularly special is that it marks the reunion of the beloved on-screen pair Mohanlal and Shobana after 15 years. They last shared the screen in Sagar Alias Jacky Reloaded in 2009, and their pairing has been missed by fans across the Malayalam film industry.
Shobana plays Shanmugham's wife in the film, and their chemistry is on display in various charming moments throughout the trailer. At one point, Shanmugham humorously addresses speculation surrounding his beard, declaring in Tamil, “Who has a problem with this beard, huh?” This self-aware moment was woven into the humor of the film, further establishing its lighthearted and playful tone.
As the trailer unfolds, we see glimpses of an emotional bond between Shanmugham and his car. At one point, he boasts, “Do you know how many great personalities’ bums have graced my car?” However, the lightheartedness is contrasted by a serious turn of events when the car ends up in police custody, leading Shanmugham into a series of comedic yet heartfelt attempts to reclaim his beloved vehicle.
The film is directed by Tharun Moorthy, known for his adept storytelling in works such as Operation Java and Saudi Vellakka. Written in collaboration with KR Sunil, the film aims to present a compelling narrative that resonates with family values while addressing the ups and downs of life.
Alongside Mohanlal and Shobana, the cast includes talented actors such as Binu Pappu, Farhaan Faasil, Irshad Ali, and Maniyanpilla Raju, who contribute to the film's charm. Cinematography is handled by Shaji Kumar, and the music is composed by Jakes Bejoy, adding layers to the film's emotional depth.
Thudarum also serves as a significant milestone for Mohanlal, marking his 360th film in his illustrious career. Fans are eagerly awaiting the film, aware that this production embodies both nostalgia and contemporary storytelling approaches. With its rich cast and promising direction, Thudarum appears poised to captivate audiences with both humor and heart.
As moviegoers anticipate its release, Mohanlal’s concurrent project, L2: Empuraan, produced by Prithviraj Sukumaran, also debuts the day after the trailer's release, on March 27. This double treat for fans highlights Mohanlal's return to the cinema in diverse roles.
Ultimately, the trailer hints at a film that honors family bonds while exploring the nuances of life, set against the backdrop of a captivating small-town environment. Thudarum is sure to be more than just a film — it's a nostalgic journey that reaffirms the beloved dynamic between Mohanlal and Shobana, likely touching the hearts of audiences eager for familial connection and warmth.
The film’s release date will be confirmed following the successful execution of its marketing campaign, but early indications suggest that it will hit theaters in May 2025. Mohanlal’s fans are sure to embrace this return to the type of storytelling that has defined much of Malayalam cinema as they mark yet another milestone in the actor’s career.
