Critics rating : 4.5 */5
Cast : Mareena Michel Kurushingal, Muraliram, Santhosh Keezhatoor, Appunni Sasi, Sunil Sughada, Bitto David
Director – Sreedev Kappur
Ernakulam: Movies that had earlier portrayed the backdrop of 1920 Malabar rebellion and its contours mostly confined to the violence and the struggles associated with it. Some of it had its share of controversies. However, the latest movie ‘Jagala’ had touched a chord that no one had ever did till date. The script dwelled deep into the human emotions, romance and nitty gritty that was done with a fair amount of research.
Sreedev Kappur’s latest Malayalam movie Jagala is a meditative, deeply moving film that explores poverty, emotional suppression, and resilience in a time of great political unrest. Set during the 1920s Mappila Rebellion in Malabar, the film doesn’t dramatize rebellion as spectacle — instead, it observes the era through the quiet, raw existence of a forgotten soul.
The focal point of ‘Jagala’ is Chekku (powerfully portrayed by Muraliram), a young man battling the harsh realities of poverty and emotional numbness. His world revolves around collecting leftovers, delivering meals to a schoolmaster, and surviving another day. The rebellion might be stirring on the other side of the river, but Chekku’s conflict is more immediate — against hunger, isolation, and the void of recognition.
The background score was quite touching when in the initial scenes, however had its own pitfalls at few points. These are bound to happen when it comes to
Chekku finds an unlikely anchor in Kunjathu (Mareena Michael Kurisingal), a childhood companion whose love for him is silent but steadfast. Their understated chemistry becomes the film’s emotional core, handled with tenderness and restraint.
Visually, Jagala is nothing short of mesmerizing. Cinematographer Sumesh Surendran captures a quiet poetry in every frame, letting natural light, texture, and silence set the rhythm. The physical world — mud-washed huts, riversides, coarse fabrics — is made tangible and immersive by art director Sunil Lavanya, whose design work adds visceral realism to the period.
Supporting the film’s authenticity are makeup artist Sreejith Guruvayoor, who keeps the look raw and grounded, and costume designer Kumar Edappal, whose earthy, time-accurate wardrobe brings the 1920s milieu alive with subtle elegance.
Produced by Sajith Panicker, Manoj Panicker, and Jithesh Panicker under the Kalarikkal Films banner, Jagala is a quietly ambitious Malayalam film that stands apart through its honesty and aesthetic purity. It does not chase commercial formulae; instead, it trusts its characters, setting, and stillness to speak volumes.
Though minimalist in dialogue and pacing, the film resonates with those who value emotional honesty and artistic storytelling. Muraliram delivers a standout performance, embodying a man whose silence says more than words ever could.
Jagala is a soulful journey into forgotten struggles — told with restraint, crafted with care, and remembered for its still, haunting truths.
The movie is worth watching for those who enjoy period drama’s and those enjoying artistic storytelling.