Housemates (2025) keeps viewers engaged

I went to Housemates (2025) with no expectations and came out pleasantly surprised. A simple plot, focused screenplay, and a neat cast make this film entertaining. Mangoidiots gives it a Ripe.

Karthik, played by Darshan, and Anu, played by Aarsha Chandini Baiju, are newlyweds who move into an apartment they have bought. Their happy days soon turn uneasy when strange incidents start happening in the house. At the same time, Ramesh (Kaali Venkat) and Viji (Vinodhini) experience similar disturbances in their apartment, where they live with their young son. How these two events are connected forms the core of the story.

Debut director T Raja Vel walks a fine line between supernatural and science fiction. The first half moves briskly and keeps us engaged. After the interval, the film slows down for a while, and I feared the strong start might go to waste. Thankfully, the last half-hour picks up and ends on a high. The climax, powered by the brilliant emotional performances of Kaali Venkat and Vinodhini, gives the film a fitting finish.

Darshan and Aarsha Chandini fit their roles perfectly. For some reason, Darshan’s voice reminded me of Udhayanidhi Stalin. Dheena, as the hero’s friend, does his supporting role well. Music by Rajesh Murugesan—especially the first-half background score—adds an effortless sense of horror.