Hridayapoorvam: Mohanlal Shines in Feel-Good Family Drama

Hridayapoorvam Review: Comedy, Warmth, and Mohanlal’s Endearing Magic

Language: Malayalam
Duration: 2 hours 31 minutes
Director: Sathyan Anthikad
Genre: Comedy Drama

Story

Hridayapoorvam centers on Sandeep Balakrishnan (Mohanlal), a middle-aged bachelor in Kochi starting anew after a heart transplant. His life is given a spark thanks to his lively caregiver Jerry (Sangeeth Prathap). When Haritha (Malavika Mohanan), the daughter of Sandeep’s heart donor, arrives and invites him to her engagement in Pune, a cascade of events is set in motion. When the engagement falls apart and Sandeep gets injured, he finds himself stuck in Pune, cared for by Haritha and her mother Devika (Sangita Madhavan Nair). As Sandeep softens the emotional walls of the women around him—and rediscovers his own capacity for love and belonging—the film gently explores how loss, second chances, and kindness can bring broken hearts together.

Positives

1. Mohanlal’s Performance: Mohanlal owns the film from start to finish with his effortless, natural acting and comic timing. Whether it’s a witty comeback or a poignant emotional shift, he gives Hridayapoorvam its soul and makes every scene memorable. His seamless move from humor to depth is showcased especially in the climax—his presence elevates the film throughout.
2. Direction: Sathyan Anthikad infuses a simple story with his trademark warmth and steady hand. The humor feels organic and flows naturally from characters and situations, making ordinary moments bright, charming, and consistent.
3. Feel-Good Mood and Comedy: The screenplay stays engaging, thanks to situational comedy that never feels forced. The balance of entertainment and emotional pulse keeps the film lively—you’re never far from a laugh or a heartfelt moment. This mood, sustained throughout, ensures Hridayapoorvam is the very definition of a family entertainer.
4. Mohanlal & Sangeeth Prathap Chemistry: Their dynamic is filled with infectious fun and genuine warmth. Their exchanges, driven by Mohanlal’s subtlety and Sangeeth’s energy, are a highlight, providing one hilarious scene after another.
5. Malavika Mohanan’s Performance: Malavika delivers a nuanced, heartfelt portrayal of a daughter burdened by loss. Her chemistry with Mohanlal brings warmth and authenticity to the film.
6. Music and BGM by Justin Varghese: The music fits the mood perfectly, from the melodic “Venmathi” to the emotional “Vida Parayam”—every track complements the story. The score supports both comedy and emotional beats.
7. Cinematography and Editing: Visuals are clean, capturing the charm of Pune and the depth of character moments via close-ups. Editing is crisp, giving the film smooth flow, though the length could have been trimmed.

Negatives

1. Predictable Storyline: The plot is mostly straightforward; you’ll likely guess how events unfold. While there are few surprises, humor and chemistry keep it from feeling dull.
2. A Bit Long: At 151 minutes, the pacing slows in the later half. Tighter editing would have heightened the overall impact.

Performances

• Mohanlal: Effortless, charming, and deeply emotive—he’s the heartbeat of the film.
• Sangeeth Prathap: Energetic and funny, he’s a natural comic who matches Mohanlal’s presence.
• Malavika Mohanan: Beautifully understated and sincere, she’s more than a supporting player.
• Sangita Madhavan Nair: Genuine and expressive as Haritha’s mother, adding to the film’s heart.
• Nishan, Siddique, Lalu Alex, and Soumya Bhagyan Pillai: Strong in their respective roles, with Soumya adding delightful lightness.

Conclusion

Hridayapoorvam is a classic family entertainer, blending laughter, emotion, and warmth. Mohanlal and Sangeeth Prathap drive the comedy, while Malavika adds soul. Despite some predictability and length, the film’s feel-good atmosphere, natural humor, and relatable performances make it a festive treat for families seeking both fun and heart.

Verdict:
Fun and Feel-Good Family Drama

Rating: 3.5/5