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Kochi: Veteran filmmaker Sathyan Anthikad’s latest feature, hridayapoorvam movie reviews, has opened to positive reviews and strong word-of-mouth following its Onam release on August 28. Starring superstar Mohanlal alongside Malavika Mohanan and Sangeeth Prathap, the film is being praised as a light-hearted, emotional family drama. Audiences and critics alike have highlighted Mohanlal’s nuanced performance and the movie’s sensitive handling of themes like grief and second chances.

The story centers on Sandeep Balakrishnan, a heart transplant recipient played by Mohanlal, who travels to Pune to visit the family of his donor. What begins as a brief visit turns into an extended stay, leading to new bonds and unexpected emotional connections with the donor’s daughter, Haritha (Malavika Mohanan), and her mother (Sangeetha).

Critics praise key performances

• Mohanlal lauded for subtle portrayal: The veteran actor’s portrayal of a man grappling with a second chance at life has been universally praised. A reviewer from The Hindu noted that Mohanlal “carries a film with hardly any major conflict… on his shoulders”. Similarly, Cinema Express highlighted his “fantastic” performance, stating he “powers this warm hug of a film”.
• Malavika Mohanan and Sangeeth Prathap impress: Malavika Mohanan has received a thumbs-up for her portrayal of Haritha, with critics noting her natural performance and impressive mastery of a Mumbaikar Malayali accent. The performance of newcomer Sangeeth Prathap, who plays Haritha’s friend, Jerry, has also been singled out, with many calling him the “show stealer” for his excellent comic timing with Mohanlal.
• Social media reaction is positive: On social media, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), viewers have celebrated the film as a “feel-good Onam special”. Fans have praised the on-screen chemistry between Mohanlal and Sangeeth Prathap, hailing it as a “super hit” combination.

Mixed reactions to pacing and plot

Despite the overwhelmingly positive response, some reviewers felt the second half of the film lagged. The Indian Express criticized the plot’s lack of cohesion, with scenes feeling isolated and the overall pacing described as “uneven”. Some plot points, including a subplot involving Siddique’s character, were also noted as feeling outdated. However, even those with criticisms acknowledged that Mohanlal’s strength and the film’s overall warmth kept audiences invested.

A family-friendly Onam entertainer

With its focus on human emotions and relationships, Hridayapoorvam has been received as a touching family drama. Its ability to strike a balance between comedy and heartfelt moments makes it an ideal Onam release for audiences looking for a feel-good experience. As it competes at the box office against Kalyani Priyadarshan’s Lokah Chapter 1: Chandra, Hridayapoorvam looks set to be a winner with family audiences this holiday season.