Kurup is a compelling 2021 Malayalam-language biographical crime thriller directed by Srinath Rajendran, based on the real-life story of India’s most wanted fugitive, Sukumara Kurup. The film stars Dulquer Salmaan in the titular role, supported by a strong cast including Indrajith Sukumaran, Tovino Thomas, Sunny Wayne, Shine Tom Chacko, Sobhita Dhulipala, Manoj Bajpayee, and Maya Menon. Kurup traces the notorious fugitive’s cunning and decades-long evasion of the law following a grisly insurance fraud and murder case, weaving an intriguing blend of crime, drama, and suspense with striking performances and a stylized screenplay.

Plot Summary

The narrative opens with Krishnadas, a retired Superintendent of Police, preparing for a send-off event when he reflects on the infamous “Charlie murder case,” a mystery that haunted Kerala for decades. The film then flashes back to unravel the story of Kurup.

Born as Gopikrishna Kurup, the young man is sent to join the Indian Air Force against his will by his uncle after failing his school exams. He befriends Peter, a music lover and fellow trainee, and the two are soon posted to Bombay. However, Kurup is disillusioned by the rigidity of military life and fakes his own death to escape, assuming the identity Sudhakara Kurup.

He later returns to Kerala, reconnects with his family, and marries Sharadamma—the daughter of his family’s old maid—with whom he leads a seemingly prosperous life in Persia (modern-day Iran).

Facing financial troubles and greed, Kurup devises a sinister plan to fake his own death again to claim a hefty insurance package. In complicity with close relatives and friends, they hunt for a corpse matching Kurup’s height and weight. After failing to find one, they murder a man named Chacko, a film distributor representative, drug him, place him in Kurup’s car, and set it on fire, fabricating Kurup’s death.

Kerala Police DYSP Krishnadas leads a thorough investigation, doubting the official accident story. Through persistent detective work, Krishnadas uncovers the conspiracy, arrests Kurup’s accomplices, but Kurup himself remains elusive.

Kurup’s escape takes him across cities and countries, living under different aliases with involvement in smuggling arms and oil. Despite narrow escapes and growing infamy, he continues evading capture.

The film ends with Krishnadas confirming that Kurup has escaped again, the criminal legend enduring, while promising justice to the victims’ families.

Characters and Performances

Sukumara Kurup (Dulquer Salmaan):

Dulquer captivates with his versatile portrayal, balancing charm, menace, and cold calculation. He embodies Kurup’s complexity—the man who is both charismatic and ruthless.

Krishnadas (Indrajith Sukumaran):

The determined and methodical police officer driving the investigation, portrayed with gravitas and intelligence.

Sharadamma (Sobhita Dhulipala):

Kurup’s wife, caught between affection and betrayal, portrayed with depth.

Peter (Sunny Wayne):

Kurup’s close friend from the Air Force, navigating loyalty and moral dilemmas.

Isaac (Shine Tom Chacko):

A gangster and smuggling partner who complicates Kurup’s ventures.

Manoj Bajpayee and Maya Menon:

Supporting roles adding layers of intrigue and realism.

Themes and Analysis

Crime and Morality:

The film probes the darkness of crime, the erosion of morality, and the consequences of greed.

Identity and Evasion:

Kurup’s multiple assumed identities represent the fluidity and elusiveness of criminals hiding in plain sight.

Justice and Persistence:

The persistent quest by police symbolizes hope and the long arm of justice.

Greed and Ambition:

Kurup’s downward spiral is fueled by ambition and insatiable greed.

Legend and Legacy:

The story situates Kurup’s mythic status in Kerala’s cultural consciousness.

Direction and Cinematography

Srinath Rajendran directs with flair and intricate plotting, maintaining suspense while revealing layers of character. The screenplay uses flashbacks and multiple timelines effectively.

Cinematographer Shaji Kumar captures contrasting moods—gritty cityscapes, lush Persian vistas, and tense interrogation rooms—crafting a visually compelling narrative.

The film’s music and background score heighten tension and emotional beats.

Editing by Shameer Muhammed aids brisk pacing, especially in investigative sequences.

Critical Reception and Legacy

Kurup received mostly positive reviews for its performances, especially Dulquer’s portrayal, and engaging narrative, though some critics noted an imbalance in drama and pacing.

The movie resonated strongly with Kerala audiences familiar with the case and gained intellectual curiosity beyond regional boundaries.

It became a blockbuster, significantly impacting Malayalam crime thrillers and biopics.

Memorable Scenes

• Kurup’s calculated faking of his own death and murder of Chacko.

• The meticulous investigation led by Krishnadas.

• Intense dialogues and confrontations between Kurup and his accomplices.

• Exotic depictions of Kurup’s lifestyle abroad.

• The police’s near captures and Kurup’s narrow escapes.

• The emotional weight carried by victim families.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who directed Kurup?

The film was directed by Srinath Rajendran.

Who plays Sukumara Kurup?

Dulquer Salmaan plays the titular role.

What is the film about?

It tells the story of Sukumara Kurup, a fugitive criminal who faked his death after committing murder to claim insurance money and evaded arrest for decades.

Is Kurup based on a true story?

Yes, based on the infamous “Charlie murder case” in Kerala.

What themes are explored?

Crime, greed, identity, justice, persistence, and legend-making.

How was the film received?

It was a commercial hit and critically appreciated for its acting and direction.

Are there any other key characters?

Yes, Indrajith Sukumaran as Krishnadas, Sobhita Dhulipala as Sharadamma, and others played significant roles.

Does the film explain what happened to Kurup?

The film ends with Kurup still at large, maintaining mystery about his fate.

Where was the movie shot?

Various locations in Kerala, Mumbai, and international scenes for realism.

Kurup is a fascinating, riveting crime drama that enthralls with its true-crime narrative, layered characters, and polished storytelling. Dulquer Salmaan’s compelling transformation into one of Kerala’s most infamous criminals elevates the film to a must-watch status in contemporary Malayalam cinema.