The excitement among Malayalam cinema fans has reached fever pitch as the highly acclaimed action thriller Narivetta (transl. Jackal Hunt) is set to premiere on Netflix! Directed by Anuraj Manohar and headlined by the versatile Tovino Thomas, this film has been the talk of the town since its theatrical release on May 23, 2025. After a successful run in cinemas, Narivetta is ready to captivate global audiences with its gripping narrative, powerful performances, and socially relevant themes. Whether you missed it in theaters or want to relive its intensity, here’s your ultimate guide to the OTT release of Narivetta.
Narivetta: A Theatrical Triumph with a Social Conscience
Narivetta stormed into cinemas on May 23, 2025, and quickly became a box office contender despite stiff competition. The film, inspired by the real-life 2003 Muthanga Incident, struck a chord with audiences for its bold exploration of state violence, systemic oppression, and the struggles of marginalized communities. On its opening day, the movie recorded ₹1.75 crore in Kerala alone, with occupancy rates climbing from 21.97% in morning shows to an impressive 51.71% at night. Critics praised its raw storytelling, Tovino Thomas’ career-defining performance, and its unflinching critique of power structures.
With a modest budget of ₹10 crore, Narivetta proves that compelling content, not star power alone, drives success. Now, as it gears up for its OTT debut, the film is poised to reach a wider audience, sparking conversations about justice, accountability, and humanity.
Netflix, known for curating regionally diverse content, has acquired the streaming rights to Narivetta. The platform’s global reach ensures that the film will resonate beyond Kerala, with subtitles in English, Tamil, Telugu, and Hindi. Mark your calendars for June 20, 2025, and get ready to experience this hard-hitting drama from the comfort of your home!
Narivetta: Plot, Themes, and Why It Matters
At its core, Narivetta is more than an action thriller—it’s a mirror to society. Here’s what makes it a must-watch:
1. The Storyline
The film follows Varghese Peter (Tovino Thomas), an Armed Police constable, and Basheer Muhammed (Suraj Venjaramoodu), a head constable, as they navigate a morally complex mission rooted in the Muthanga tribal land conflict of 2003. Their pursuit of justice collides with political agendas, corruption, and their own conscience. Meanwhile, DIG R. Keshavadas IPS (Cheran) represents the systemic forces that blur the line between duty and brutality.
2. Social Relevance
Narivetta boldly critiques state-sanctioned violence and how power structures often fail marginalized groups. The character of C.K Shanthi (Arya Salim), inspired by real-life activist C.K Jaanu, adds emotional depth to the narrative, highlighting the human cost of bureaucratic apathy.
3. Stellar Performances
- Tovino Thomas delivers a career-best performance, balancing vulnerability and intensity as a conflicted cop.
- Suraj Venjaramoodu shines as Basheer, portraying a man torn between loyalty and morality.
- Cheran makes a impactful Malayalam debut, embodying the cold pragmatism of a high-ranking officer.
- Arya Salim and Priyamvada Krishnan add layers to the story, representing resilience and hope.
4. Technical Brilliance
- Cinematography: Vijay’s gritty visuals capture the lush yet tense landscapes of Wayanad and Kuttanad.
- Music: Jakes Bejoy’s haunting score amplifies the film’s emotional and suspenseful beats.
- Editing: Shameer Muhammed’s sharp cuts keep the pacing tight, ensuring no moment feels wasted.
Behind the Scenes: The Making of Narivetta
Director’s Vision
Anuraj Manohar, known for his nuanced storytelling, spent years researching the Muthanga Incident to ensure authenticity. In interviews, he emphasized, “Narivetta isn’t just about past events—it’s a warning about how power can corrupt any system.”
Filming Challenges
The team shot across Kerala—from the backwaters of Alappuzha to the dense forests of Wayanad—in just 65 days. Tovino Thomas reportedly performed his stunts without doubles, including a grueling chase sequence filmed in heavy rain.
Marketing Genius
The film’s promotional campaign leaned into its socio-political themes:
- The first look poster, released on Tovino’s birthday (January 21, 2025), showcased his intense cop avatar.
- A motion poster highlighted the film’s tagline: “When the hunter becomes the hunted…”
- Collaboration with Vormir Studios India ensured a sleek official website with behind-the-scenes content and director’s notes.
FAQs About Narivetta’s OTT Release
Q1. Is Narivetta based on a true story?
Yes! It’s inspired by the 2003 Muthanga tribal land conflict in Kerala, though names and events are fictionalized.
Q2. Can I watch Narivetta without seeing Part 1?
This is a standalone film—no prior viewing required!
Q3. Will Narivetta be dubbed in Hindi?
No dubs, but Hindi subtitles will be available.
Q4. What’s the runtime?
138 minutes—perfect for a weekend movie night!
Q5. Does the film have a post-credits scene?
Stay tuned after the credits for a poignant message from the director.
Final Verdict: A Must-Watch for Every Cinephile
Narivetta is socio-political commentary, it challenges viewers to reflect on real-world issues while keeping them glued to the screen. Tovino Thomas and Suraj Venjaramoodu’s chemistry, coupled with Anuraj Manohar’s visionary direction, makes this a landmark film in Malayalam cinema.
As the countdown to June 20 begins, prepare to embark on a journey that’s as thought-provoking as it is entertaining. Whether you’re a fan of thrillers, socially relevant dramas, or Tovino’s acting prowess, Narivetta promises an unforgettable experience.
#NarivettaOnNetflix #June20Release – Spread the word!