Nayattu (translated as “Hunt”) is a gripping 2021 Malayalam-language drama thriller directed by Martin Prakkat and written by Shahi Kabir. The film features Kunchacko Boban, Joju George, and Nimisha Sajayan in lead roles, supported by a talented cast including Jaffar Idukki and the late Anil Nedumangad. Set against the politically charged backdrop of Kerala’s rural landscape, Nayattu offers a raw, heart-pounding exploration of the Indian political machinery, police corruption, and caste-based social realities, all packaged within the framework of a taut cat-and-mouse thriller.

Plot Summary

The story begins with three police officers—CPO Praveen Michael (Kunchacko Boban), ASI Maniyan (Joju George), and CPO Sunitha (Nimisha Sajayan)—stationed in a politically sensitive rural area of Kerala. When Praveen and Maniyan apprehend a local political goon named Biju (related to Sunitha), a scuffle ensues. However, Biju’s release by influential political forces exposes the systemic nexus between politicians and criminals.

One night, after attending a wedding party, the three officers—Praveen, Maniyan, and Sunitha—while intoxicated, get involved in a motorcycle accident involving a youth named Jayan, who is a friend of Biju. Despite attempts to help, Jayan is pronounced dead, and Praveen, Maniyan, and Sunitha realize they will be framed and persecuted by the political establishment.

With the police and higher officials hunting them, the trio escapes, embarking on a desperate flight through the rugged terrain towards Munnar, seeking refuge with an old acquaintance of Maniyan. Political stakes escalate due to impending elections, wherein the Dalit vote bank plays a crucial role, further complicating matters.

The Crime Branch, led by SP Anuradha, is assigned to pursue the trio. Although Anuradha and her team locate the fugitives, they cannot capture them due to difficult terrain and strategic planning.

Back in the city, a political drama unfolds where police announce the arrest of the officers to placate public outcry, using dummies to mislead the media.

Eventually, Maniyan is found dead under suspicious circumstances, and a suicide note on his phone is used to frame him. The other two, Praveen and Sunitha, continue to elude but are eventually arrested.

While in custody, the police stage Maniyan’s suicide to suppress scandal, urging Praveen and Sunitha to corroborate the fabricated story. Both refuse, standing firm for truth and justice.

The case proceeds to court amid political interference, with attempts to destroy critical evidence. Ultimately, the court orders a CBI probe, acknowledging the need for an independent inquiry.

Performances

Kunchacko Boban (Praveen Michael):

Delivers a restrained, profound performance capturing a policeman caught between duty and political manipulation. His portrayal conveys human vulnerability and moral steadfastness.

Joju George (Maniyan):

Portrays the grizzled, committed officer with emotional depth, especially in scenes revealing his fears and sacrifices.

Nimisha Sajayan (Sunitha):

Immerses herself in a role depicting a young, determined female police officer confronting societal and institutional challenges.

Supporting Cast:

Jaffar Idukki, Anil Nedumangad (in a memorable cameo), and others enrich the narrative with nuanced portrayals.

Themes

Political Manipulation and Corruption:

Showcases how politicians exploit law enforcement and caste dynamics for electoral gains.

Caste and Social Bias:

Reveals systemic marginalization and the fragile position of Dalits in Kerala’s social fabric.

Justice and Morality:

Explores the struggles of honest cops battling political and systemic corruption.

Institutional Failure

Examines the complicity of the police and judiciary under political pressure.

Human Resilience:

Focuses on survival, loyalty, and the fight to uphold truth against overwhelming odds.

Direction and Technical Aspects

Martin Prakkat’s direction is taut and devoid of melodrama, building suspense through well-crafted sequences and tight screenplay written by Shahi Kabir. The narrative is balanced with strong social commentary and pulse-pounding thrills.

Cinematographer Anend C. Chandran captures the rugged Kerala backwaters and hilltops with natural lighting, invoking realism and grounding the story.

The background score heightens tension without becoming intrusive, and sound design replicates the eerie atmosphere of mountain terrains and police chases.

Editing is crisp, maintaining pace and clarity even as multiple narrative threads intertwine.

Reception and Legacy

Nayattu was universally acclaimed upon release, applauded for its tight storytelling, realistic characterization, and fearless critique of India’s political-police nexus.

It was shortlisted as India’s entry for Best International Feature Film at the 94th Academy Awards and was widely regarded as a landmark Malayalam film of 2021.

Critics and audiences alike praised its unflinching portrayal of systemic flaws and its emotional intensity.

Memorable Scenes

• The initial wedding party brawl, setting off a cascade of events.

• The motorcycle accident aftermath and the trio’s realization of impending doom.

• The tense flight through the mountainous terrain towards Munnar.

• The media façade of dummy arrests creating political smoke screens.

• Maniyan’s death and the accompanying emotional weight.

• The courtroom climax with political drama and decisions pushing toward justice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who directed Nayattu?

Martin Prakkat directed the film.

Who are the lead actors?

Kunchacko Boban, Joju George, and Nimisha Sajayan play the leading roles.

What is the movie about?

The film tells the story of three police officers framed for murder amidst political and caste-based manipulation, and their fight for survival and justice.

Is it a true story?

While fictional, the film is inspired by real systemic and social issues in Kerala.

What themes are explored?

Political corruption, caste bias, police rights and duties, justice, and resilience.

How was the film received?

It received critical acclaim and was a commercial success.

What genre is Nayattu?

Drama, thriller, political.

Is the film suitable for streaming?

Yes, Nayattu is available on Netflix and is suitable for audiences interested in socially relevant dramas.

Nayattu stands as a hard-hitting, emotionally complex thriller spotlighting the intertwined forces of politics, caste, and law enforcement. With stellar performances and a gripping plot, it marks a milestone in contemporary Malayalam cinema, urging reflection on justice and human dignity.