Hridayapoorvam Review: A Warm Onam Gift from Mohanlal and Sathyan Anthikad

Rating: 3☆/5

This Onam, Malayalam cinema received a special gift in the form of Hridayapoorvam, a film that marks the reunion of Mohanlal and veteran director Sathyan Anthikad after almost a decade. Naturally, the anticipation was high, and the question on everyone’s mind was whether this collaboration would recreate the magic of their earlier classics. The good news is that Hridayapoorvam lives up to its promise, offering a warm, heartfelt story that stays true to Anthikad’s signature style of simplicity and emotional depth.

The film revolves around Sandeep Balakrishnan, played by Mohanlal, a heart-transplant recipient who travels to Pune to attend the wedding of his donor’s daughter. What begins as a short trip extends into something more meaningful when he is forced to stay back due to an injury. This extended stay becomes a journey of bonding, healing, and rediscovery, especially as he forges a heartfelt connection with Haritha, played beautifully by Malavika Mohanan. The plot does not rely on heavy twists or over-the-top drama; instead, it celebrates the everyday magic of human connection, compassion, and family ties.

Mohanlal’s performance is undoubtedly the heart of the film. Effortless, graceful, and deeply moving, he slips into his role with the kind of charm only he can bring. His chemistry with Sangeeth Prathap in the first half has already become a highlight among audiences, delivering moments of laughter and light-hearted fun that balance the emotional core of the story. Malavika Mohanan, on the other hand, brings a quiet elegance to the second half, adding emotional depth and ensuring the narrative never loses its balance. The supporting cast, including Siddique, plays their parts well, though a few scenes may feel a touch flat when compared to the stronger moments of the film.

What makes Hridayapoorvam stand out is the way it is crafted. Sathyan Anthikad, with a screenplay by Sonu T. P. and a story penned by Akhil Sathyan, keeps the narrative simple yet engaging. The cinematography by Anu Moothedath captures the warmth of family life and the festive vibrance of Onam with ease, while Justin Prabhakaran’s music adds a soothing layer to the storytelling. The songs and background score blend seamlessly into the film, carrying forward the emotions without ever overwhelming them.

It is not about grandeur or spectacle, but about the small joys of human relationships, the warmth of compassion, and the timeless value of togetherness. For families coming together this festive season, it serves as the perfect Onam release, one that can be enjoyed with equal joy across generations. Mohanlal and Sathyan Anthikad have given the audience not just a film, but an experience that feels personal, nostalgic, and deeply moving.

Hridayapoorvam is a reminder that cinema does not always need to be loud or complicated to make an impact. Sometimes, it just needs to speak directly to the heart, and this one does so beautifully.