Alappuzha Gymkhana (2025) – “A knockout blend of charm, chaos, and friendship.”

Directed by: Khalid Rahman
Written by: Khalid Rahman, Sreeni Saseendran
Dialogues: Ratheesh Ravi
Starring: Naslen, Lukman Avaran, Ganapathi S. Poduval, Sandeep Pradeep, Anagha Ravi
Music: Vishnu Vijay
Language: Malayalam
Genre: Sports, Drama
Produced by: Plan B Motion Pictures, Reelistic Studios

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Plot Overview

In Alappuzha Gymkhana, a group of friends who fail their 12th-grade exams find an unexpected route into college — boxing. What starts off as a desperate attempt to earn a sports quota admission transforms into a tale of grit, friendship, identity, and the unexpected joys that come from trying something new. Their journey is more than just about boxing — it’s about life, growth, and brotherhood.

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Review

Performances

Let’s talk casting — easily one of the film’s biggest strengths. Every actor, whether in a lead role or just a single scene, brings authenticity and heart to their character. Picking one or two out would be unfair because this is truly a team effort — and it shows on screen.

• Lukman Avaran’s entry is electric. The tempo of the film kicks up a gear the moment he arrives, especially in the boxing sequences — intense, stylized, and engaging.

• Ganapathi feels like the backbone of the film. His calm, powerful presence anchors the emotional beats beautifully.

• Anagha Ravi is a total surprise package — she lights up the screen and her boxing scenes are a treat.

• Naslen, though not the central focus, plays narrator — a clever move by the director that helps widen the lens of the story without sticking to one POV.

Direction & Screenplay

Khalid Rahman knows his world well. Instead of a traditional protagonist-led story, he goes for a collective narrative, making you feel part of the Gymkhana gang. It’s that sense of community that gives the movie its charm. The direction focuses less on boxing as a sport and more on the emotional and personal growth of the characters, which works well.

Even when the movie touches on predictable genre tropes, it feels fresh because of the vibrant character dynamics and crisp storytelling.

Music & Technicals

• Vishnu Vijay’s BGM is the soul of the movie. You may not notice it loudly, but it subtly lifts every scene. That’s when you know a score is doing its job.

• Cinematography by Jimshi Khalid captures the earthy tones of Alappuzha and the raw energy of the boxing scenes perfectly.

• Editing is tight, with the second half especially moving at a great pace leading up to a satisfying climax.

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Strengths

✅ Stellar casting and performances across the board
✅ Refreshing take on the sports genre
✅ Fun, energetic climax with solid payoff
✅ Vibrant visuals and powerful BGM
✅ Friendship and underdog themes well executed

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Weaknesses

❌ A few jokes don’t land and disrupt the flow briefly
❌ Those expecting a serious sports film might feel the genre shift a bit jarring
❌ Some early lags — typical of sports dramas but handled decently here

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My Personal Take on Cinema

Alappuzha Gymkhana is like a well-timed uppercut — it surprises you. It may not be heavy on technical boxing realism, but it’s rich in personality and youthful energy. It’s not a film that shouts its message, but one that wins you over with charm, laughter, and a solid dose of team spirit. The best thing? It never takes itself too seriously.

Whether you’re watching it with friends or on your own, this is a feel-good festive entertainer that leaves you smiling by the end. Definitely one of the better sports dramas in recent Malayalam cinema.

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Rating: 

2.75/5