✅ Ronth (2025) is a gripping Malayalam drama that delves into the demanding and often challenging lives of police officers on night patrol. Directed by Shahi Kabir, known for his authentic police narratives, this film offers a raw and realistic portrayal of the events unfolding over a single night shift. Optimized for seamless viewing across all modern devices, including smartphones, tablets, and desktop platforms, “Ronth” promises to be an intense and thought-provoking cinematic experience, driven by powerful performances and a taut screenplay.

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8.3/10

Ronth

Director: Shahi Kabir

Writers: Shahi Kabir

Stars: Dileesh Pothan, Roshan Mathew, Sudhi Koppa

Country: India

Genres: Crime, Drama

Languages: Malayalam

Overview: Two patrol officers face mounting tensions during a night shift as they navigate dangerous calls while confronting their strained partnership and personal demons.

TMDb: View on TMDb

Ronth (2025) – Movie Overview & Analysis-BollyFlix

Movie Details 

• Full Name: Ronth
• Language: Malayalam
• Budget: Not publicly disclosed
• Revenue: Not publicly disclosed
• Runtime: 2 hours 2 minutes (122 minutes)
• Release Date: June 13, 2025
• Genres: Crime, Drama, Thriller
• Cast: Dileesh Pothan (SI Yohannan), Roshan Mathew (CPO Dinnath), Sudhi Koppa, Arun Cherukavil, Krisha Kurup, Nandanunni, Lakshmi Menon, Baby Nandhootty
• Directors: Shahi Kabir
• Screenplay: Shahi Kabir
• Studios & Producers: Junglee Pictures, Festival Cinemas. Produced by Vineet Jain, Rathish Ambat, Renjith EVM, Jojo Jose.
• Voice Cast: N/A (Live-action film)
• Animation & Style: Live-action, gritty, realistic police drama

SCREENSHORT

Plot Summary

“Ronth,” which colloquially refers to the night patrol shift in police duty, is a compelling Malayalam drama that meticulously chronicles the events of a single night through the eyes of two starkly contrasting police officers. The film centers on SI Yohannan (Dileesh Pothan), a seasoned veteran hardened by years of service and burdened by a hidden past, and CPO Dinnath (Roshan Mathew), a young, idealistic rookie brimming with a desire to make a difference. Their night patrol takes them through a series of diverse encounters, from petty drunk driving incidents to grave crimes like abduction and child abuse, each case peeling back layers of their personalities and testing their moral boundaries.

As they navigate the dark streets, their clashing ideologies become evident: Dinnath adheres strictly to procedure, believing in the law’s absolute application, while Yohannan, pragmatic and seemingly jaded, often bends rules, driven by a deeper, albeit unconventional, understanding of justice and survival within the system. Their forced proximity during the night shift leads to unexpected conversations and moments of strained connection, revealing their personal traumas and vulnerabilities. Yohannan’s past, particularly his struggles with empathy when children are involved, and Dinnath’s own anxieties, slowly surface, explaining their differing approaches. The film is not plot-driven in the traditional sense but rather an episodic exploration of the realities of policing, where each incident builds upon the last, contributing to the growing tension between the two officers. The narrative culminates in a life-threatening incident that forces them to confront their deepest fears and truths, pushing their partnership to its absolute limits and questioning the very nature of duty and survival in the shadows of the law. “Ronth” is a raw and realistic portrayal of the unseen challenges faced by those who protect and serve, often at immense personal cost.

Cast & Crew

The strength of “Ronth” largely hinges on the compelling performances of its lead actors, Dileesh Pothan and Roshan Mathew, who bring immense depth and nuance to their roles as the two contrasting police officers. Dileesh Pothan, as SI Yohannan, delivers a powerful and layered portrayal of a jaded veteran. His performance masterfully conveys the weariness, the hidden vulnerabilities, and the pragmatic compromises of a man who has seen too much, making his character both frustrating and deeply sympathetic. Pothan’s nuanced expressions and subtle reactions speak volumes, revealing the scars of his long career. Roshan Mathew, as the idealistic CPO Dinnath, provides an excellent counterbalance. He embodies the youthful idealism and moral steadfastness of a new recruit, eager to make a difference, but gradually confronted by the harsh realities of the system. His interactions with Pothan create a palpable tension and a fascinating ideological clash that drives much of the film’s narrative.

The film is directed and written by Shahi Kabir, who is quickly establishing himself as a formidable voice in realistic police dramas. Having served as a police officer himself, Kabir brings an unparalleled authenticity and grit to the narrative. His direction is restrained yet impactful, focusing on the human elements and the psychological toll of the job rather than gratuitous action. He excels at extracting raw, believable performances from his cast and crafting an atmospheric portrayal of the night patrol. The supporting cast, including Sudhi Koppa, Arun Cherukavil, and Krisha Kurup, provide strong backing, contributing to the film’s realistic ensemble. Together, the cast and crew, under Kabir’s vision, create a deeply immersive and thought-provoking cinematic experience that delves into the complex world of policing.

Critical & Audience Response

“Ronth” has garnered largely positive critical and audience reception, solidifying its place as one of the standout Malayalam films of 2025, particularly within the realistic police drama genre. Critics have widely praised Shahi Kabir’s direction and screenplay, commending his ability to craft a tight, gripping narrative that unfolds over a single night, offering a fresh perspective on police procedural. The film is lauded for its raw authenticity, attributed to Kabir’s own background, which lends a compelling realism to the daily encounters and internal struggles of the police force. Reviewers have highlighted the film’s subtle tension and character-driven approach over overt sensationalism, appreciating its focus on the human element of policing.

The performances of Dileesh Pothan and Roshan Mathew have received universal acclaim, frequently cited as the film’s major highlights. Critics have lauded Pothan’s nuanced portrayal of the jaded veteran, and Mathew’s compelling depiction of the idealistic rookie, noting their strong chemistry and the effective clash of their ideologies. While some reviews mention a slightly predictable climax, the consensus is that the film’s immersive storytelling, strong character development, and powerful performances more than compensate for this. Audiences have resonated with the film’s grounded portrayal of police life in Kerala, finding it both thought-provoking and engaging. “Ronth” has been described as a “slow-burn” that fully engages viewers from start to finish, leaving a powerful and lasting impression. The overall sentiment indicates that “Ronth” is a must-watch for those who appreciate character-driven narratives and realistic portrayals of difficult realities.

Direction & Cinematography

Shahi Kabir’s direction in “Ronth” is a masterclass in controlled, atmospheric storytelling, reinforcing his reputation as a filmmaker adept at crafting authentic police narratives. Having previously served as a police officer, Kabir imbues “Ronth” with an unparalleled sense of realism, focusing on the nuanced human drama that unfolds during a night patrol rather than relying on conventional action. His direction is unflashy but deeply effective, creating a palpable sense of tension and unease that permeates the film. He skillfully guides the performances of Dileesh Pothan and Roshan Mathew, allowing their contrasting ideologies and internal struggles to drive the narrative, emphasizing showing rather than telling. Kabir’s ability to maintain a tight grip on the pacing, allowing for slow-burn character development while building towards impactful revelations, is a significant strength.

The cinematography by Manesh Madhavan significantly elevates the film’s gritty realism and atmospheric quality. Madhavan’s work is crucial in establishing the mood of the night, utilizing natural and often dim lighting to underscore the shadowy and unpredictable nature of the patrol. The camera work is often observational, placing the audience within the patrol car or alongside the officers, creating an immersive experience. Aerial shots are used sparingly but effectively, not just for scenic beauty but to emphasize the isolation and dangerous vastness of the terrain the officers cover. A particularly notable scene, where the officers drive down to a quarry at midnight, powerfully conveys a sense of risk and foreboding. The cinematography captures the raw emotions and subtle shifts in character dynamics, making “Ronth” a visually compelling and deeply impactful film that immerses the viewer in its realistic world.

Music & Background Score

The music and background score for “Ronth,” composed by Anil Johnson, play a pivotal role in enhancing the film’s intense atmosphere and emotional depth without ever becoming overbearing. Johnson’s score is a subtle yet powerful character in itself, perfectly complementing the gritty realism and psychological nuances of Shahi Kabir’s direction. Unlike many action-dramas that rely on bombastic scores, “Ronth”‘s music is more understated, utilizing minimalist compositions and melancholic melodies that underscore the weariness and internal conflicts of the police officers.

The score effectively builds tension during the encounters on the night patrol, often with a slow, creeping sense of dread rather than sudden bursts. It knows when to recede into the background, allowing the natural sounds of the night and the raw dialogue to take precedence, and when to emerge to punctuate a moment of revelation or despair. There’s a particular emphasis on creating an unsettling ambiance that reflects the unpredictable nature of night duty. The music fluidly transitions between moments of quiet introspection and sudden bursts of intensity, mirroring the emotional highs and lows experienced by the characters. Overall, Anil Johnson’s background score for “Ronth” is highly effective in elevating the film’s realistic portrayal of police life, adding layers of emotional resonance and suspense, and contributing significantly to its overall haunting and thought-provoking impact.

Visuals & Special Effects

“Ronth” is a film that prioritizes raw realism and character-driven drama over elaborate visual effects, making its visual appeal stem from its authentic portrayal of a night in the life of patrol officers. The film’s strength in visuals lies in its grounded, gritty aesthetic, which perfectly captures the mood and environment of its rural setting. The visual effects, if any, are seamlessly integrated and subtle, used solely to enhance the realism of the situations rather than to create spectacle. This approach aligns perfectly with Shahi Kabir’s directorial vision, focusing on the human element and the harsh realities faced by the police.

The cinematography, as discussed previously, plays a significant role in establishing the film’s visual tone. It utilizes natural light and the dimness of the night to create a sense of isolation and unpredictability. The visuals are not designed to be overtly beautiful but to be truthful, capturing the unglamorous aspects of police work, from dimly lit patrol car interiors to the stark landscapes encountered during their rounds. Scenes of action or conflict are shot with a focus on impact and consequence, avoiding exaggerated cinematic flair. The visual design of the film supports its narrative by creating an immersive environment that feels lived-in and real. This commitment to an unvarnished visual style ensures that “Ronth” feels authentic and impactful, drawing the audience into the compelling, often unsettling, world of its characters.

Editing & Screenplay

The editing and screenplay of “Ronth” are integral to its success as a gripping and realistic police drama, working in tandem to deliver a tight and impactful narrative. Shahi Kabir’s screenplay is a standout, praised for its meticulous crafting of a story that unfolds over a single night, focusing on the subtle yet profound interactions between two contrasting police officers. The writing is sharp, with dialogue that feels authentic and purposeful, effectively revealing the characters’ personalities, their moral dilemmas, and the underlying tensions between them. Kabir masterfully builds tension through the everyday encounters of a night patrol, demonstrating a deep understanding of police work and its psychological toll. The narrative is structured episodically, with each incident contributing to the overall character development and escalating the stakes, leading to a cohesive and satisfying arc.

The editing is precise and contributes significantly to the film’s sustained sense of dread and realism. The cuts are deliberate, allowing scenes to breathe and emotions to simmer, yet they maintain a brisk pace that keeps the audience engaged. There’s a skillful balance between slow-burn character moments and sudden bursts of intense action or conflict. The editor effectively weaves together the various incidents of the night, ensuring a smooth flow that never feels disjointed, despite the episodic nature of the plot. This seamless transition enhances the feeling of a continuous, grueling night shift. The combined strength of a well-researched and intelligently written screenplay, coupled with tight, effective editing, makes “Ronth” a compelling and thought-provoking cinematic experience that leaves a lasting impression on its audience.

Positives / What Works

“Ronth” stands out for several compelling reasons that make it a powerful and effective drama. Firstly, its unwavering commitment to realism in portraying police life is a major strength. Shahi Kabir’s intimate knowledge of the subject matter, derived from his own experience, imbues the film with an authenticity that is rarely seen, depicting the mundane, dangerous, and morally ambiguous aspects of night patrol with unflinching honesty. Secondly, the performances of Dileesh Pothan and Roshan Mathew are nothing short of exceptional. Pothan delivers a deeply nuanced and weary portrayal of the veteran officer, while Mathew perfectly captures the idealism and gradual disillusionment of the rookie, creating a dynamic and believable central partnership. Their chemistry and ideological clashes are the emotional core of the film.

The screenplay is taut and intelligent, building tension through subtle interactions and escalating incidents rather than relying on overt plot devices. Each encounter during the night feels organic and contributes to the characters’ development and the film’s thematic depth. The direction is restrained and focused, allowing the human drama and psychological toll to take center stage, creating a consistently engaging atmosphere. Furthermore, the cinematography effectively captures the mood of the night, using lighting and framing to underscore the film’s grim realities. “Ronth” is a thought-provoking film that offers a fresh and unromanticized look at law enforcement, prompting introspection about duty, morality, and the personal cost of service. It is a slow-burn thriller that truly immerses the audience in its world.

Negatives / What Doesn’t Work

While “Ronth” is largely lauded for its realism and powerful performances, a few aspects might be perceived as less effective by some viewers. One potential negative is that its deliberate, slow-burn pacing, while contributing to the realistic atmosphere and character development, might not appeal to all audiences, particularly those accustomed to more fast-paced thrillers. The film prioritizes character study and situational drama over a rapidly unfolding plot, which could feel slow for some.

Additionally, while the film aims for authenticity, some critics have pointed out that it might, at times, lean too heavily into portraying the human aspects of police officers without sufficiently addressing the potential for misuse of power within the force. While it humanizes the characters, some viewers might feel it occasionally glosses over systemic issues or presents problematic actions with too much sympathy, potentially downplaying the critical examination of police authority that some expect from such a realistic drama. Finally, a minor point of critique from some viewers has been the climax, which, despite being impactful, has been described by a few as somewhat predictable. However, these are often subjective points and generally do not detract significantly from the overall strong impact and high quality of “Ronth.”

Final Verdict / Conclusion

“Ronth” is an exceptional and unflinching Malayalam drama that stands as a compelling testament to Shahi Kabir’s prowess in crafting authentic police narratives. It offers a raw, immersive, and deeply human look into the often-unseen realities of night patrol duty, making it a significant contribution to the genre. The film’s greatest strength lies in its profound character study, driven by the outstanding performances of Dileesh Pothan and Roshan Mathew, whose contrasting yet ultimately intertwined journeys anchor the narrative with remarkable depth and emotional weight.

Kabir’s direction is precise and understated, allowing the tension to build organically through realistic encounters and psychological pressures, rather than relying on conventional action. The screenplay is sharp and insightful, portraying the moral ambiguities and personal tolls of policing with honesty and nuance. While its slow-burn pace and unvarnished realism might not cater to every taste, “Ronth” is a profoundly engaging and thought-provoking film for those who appreciate character-driven stories and a grounded approach to drama. It’s a powerful exploration of duty, the human condition under duress, and the sacrifices made in the line of service, leaving a lasting impression long after the credits roll.

Movie Rating

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