Athiradi (2026), a fun ride

Comedy films set in college campuses are familiar territory in Indian cinema, but Athiradi manages to keep things entertaining from start to finish. The film revolves around a college cultural festival, or fest, and packs in action, romance, friendship, tragedy, and plenty of exaggerated situations. Yet, throughout the runtime, it keeps us emotionally connected to the characters. That is where Director Arun Anirudhan succeeds. Mangoidiots happily give this Malayalam movie a Ripe.

The entire story happens inside BCET, an engineering college in Kerala. Years ago, an accident at the annual cultural fest forced the college management to permanently ban the event. Years later, Samkutty, played by Basil Joseph, arrives in this environment. He is an average student with no real talent or ambition. To impress a girl in his college, played by Riya Shibu as Swathy R Krishna, he takes it upon himself to revive the fest. Over the next four years, that becomes his only mission in life. Most of his plans are ridiculous, but the writing makes us enjoy his efforts and root for him. Whether Samkutty succeeds in bringing back the fest and winning the girl forms the rest of the story.

The second half focuses heavily on bringing the real Vineeth Sreenivasan, appearing as himself, to perform at the college fest. Vineeth Sreenivasan impresses with his natural screen presence and innocent charm. He is joined by Shaan Rahman, who contributes good comic moments whenever the proceedings slow down.

Jeo Baby, playing a Police Inspector, leaves a strong impression with his repeated dialogue about being Kerala’s best Police SI. Riya Shibu looks charming and delivers a confident performance. Tovino Thomas, appearing as Kuttan, an aspiring singer and local rowdy, is effortless and enjoyable to watch. But the film ultimately belongs to Basil Joseph. Initially, he does look older than a typical college student, but within a few scenes, he makes us forget that completely with his performance and timing.

Vishnu Vijay’s music works well in maintaining the film’s energy. The screenplay starts strong and maintains momentum for a while, but the second half struggles to progress meaningfully. A few scenes run longer than necessary, which affects the pacing near the end. As a result, the climax feels rushed.

Still, Athiradi remains an enjoyable entertainer. It reminded me of how much fun a simple college story can be when supported by likeable characters and actors who are clearly having fun on screen.