Officer on Duty, released in February 2025, is a Malayalam action thriller that has captivated audiences with its intense storytelling and stellar performances. Directed by Jithu Ashraf, the film features Kunchacko Boban in the lead role as CI Harishankar, with an ensemble cast including Priyamani, Vishak Nair, and Jagadish.
| Movie Title: | Officer on Duty |
| Primary Actor: | Kunchacko Boban |
| Featured Cast: | Jagadish, Priyamani, Kunchacko Boban |
| Genres Included: | Crime, Thriller |
| Directed By: | Jithu Ashraf |
| Duration: | 2h 14m |
| Production House: | Martin Prakkat Films, Green Room Productions (IN) |
| Launch Date: | 20 Feb 2025 |
| Score: | 6.9/10 |
| Critic’s Rating: | 6.9/10 |
The screenplay, written by Shahi Kabir, explores law enforcement complexities and personal redemption. The film is packed with thrilling sequences, a compelling narrative, and emotional depth, making it a standout in the genre.
Cast Name
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Meenakshi | Nila Hari |
| Kunchacko Boban | Harishankar |
| Amit Eapen | Lance |
| Jagadish | Chandrababu |
| Vishnu G. Varrier | Sathya Mithiran |
| Leya Mammen | Celine Joan |
| Priyamani | Geetha |
| Ramzan Muhammed | Shyam Babu |
| Vaisakh Shankar | Shahul Hameed |
| Vishak Nair | Christy Savio |
Plot Overview
The story follows CI Harishankar, played by Kunchacko Boban, a dedicated police officer burdened by personal trauma. His life takes a turn when he starts investigating a counterfeit jewelry racket, leading him into a dangerous web of crime. As the case unfolds, Harishankar faces intense challenges that test his integrity and resilience.
The movie brilliantly combines gripping investigative drama with deep emotional layers, making it an engaging watch for thriller enthusiasts.
Performance Highlights
Kunchacko Boban delivers a powerful performance, portraying a flawed yet determined officer. His expressions and body language effectively bring out the internal struggles of his character.
Priyamani plays Geetha, adding depth and emotional balance to the film. Though her role is impactful, some feel it could have been more extensive. Vishak Nair, in a negative role, delivers a standout performance, while Jagadish provides solid support.
Critical Reception
Critics have praised Officer on Duty for its engaging storyline and strong performances. Many reviews highlight how the movie effectively balances action and emotions, creating an immersive experience.
Some critics, however, feel that while the film touches on deep themes, certain emotional moments could have been explored more thoroughly. Despite this, the movie has been widely appreciated for its tense atmosphere and compelling narrative.
Public Response
The audience response has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the film’s intensity and gripping storytelling. By early March 2025, the movie had already grossed over 50 crores worldwide, making it one of the biggest hits of the year.
Viewers have especially loved Kunchacko Boban’s transformation into a complex and layered character, which has drawn comparisons to some of his previous intense roles.
Streaming Availability
For those who missed the theatrical release, Officer on Duty is available for streaming on Netflix from March 20, 2025.
The film is available in multiple languages, including Malayalam, Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, and Kannada, making it accessible to a wider audience.
Conclusion
Officer on Duty stands out as an impactful addition to Malayalam cinema, offering a mix of intense action, deep emotions, and stellar performances. While some aspects could have been more explored, the movie successfully keeps viewers hooked with its strong narrative.