No 20 Madras Mail is a 1990 Malayalam crime thriller directed by Joshiy, starring Mohanlal in the lead role. The film features an ensemble cast including M.G. Soman, Maniyanpilla Raju, Jagadish, Suchitra, and Mammootty in a cameo. It combines suspense, mystery, and comedy revolving around a murder mystery that unfolds during a train journey from Thiruvananthapuram to Madras. Known for its engaging plot, sharp dialogues, and memorable performances, the film is a staple in Malayalam thriller cinema.

Plot Summary

The film opens on the bustling Thiruvananthapuram Central railway station, showing the boarding of the No 20 Madras Mail. R.K. Nair (M.G. Soman), a wealthy businessman from Kollam, travels with his wife Geetha and daughter Devi.

Meanwhile, Tony Kurishingal (Mohanlal), a fun-loving son of a rich businessman, boards the train with his friends Hitchcock Kanjikkuzhi (Maniyanpilla Raju), a detective novelist, and Kumbalam Hari (Jagadish), a politician. The trio are headed to Madras for a cricket match, to watch a cabaret, and to attempt getting Kanjikkuzhi’s novel Vaarikkuzhiyile Kolapathakam adapted to film.

On the train, Tony and friends notice Devi in a first-class compartment and Tony tries to secure a seat there. They encounter resistance from R.K. Nair and a mysterious passenger, Sunil, who shares Devi’s compartment.

The famous actor Mammootty boards at Thrissur and befriends Tony and his group. Amid their friendly banter and drinking, Tony flirts with Devi, leading to tensions with her father, but Mammootty intervenes to calm the situation.

The following morning, as the train nears Madras, Devi’s lifeless body is found in the toilet, sparking alarm and immediate police investigation led by DSP Murthy.

Tony and his friends become prime suspects due to their last known interactions with Devi. Terrified and believing themselves innocent, they flee the train in Madras.

Back in Kerala, the trio is pursued by the law and threatened by Sunil, who initially accuses them but is eventually revealed as Devi’s lover. A violent confrontation at a lake where Tony, Hari, and Kanjikkuzhi swim ensues; Sunil attacks but is subdued.

Sunil confesses that Devi had planned to elope with him, but they failed to disembark at Erode station. Instead, Devi sought refuge at a convent, giving a diary to Sister Gloria before being found dead.

The diary uncovers further dark secrets, revealing R.K. Nair is Devi’s stepfather and had murdered her biological father in the past.

Tony and friends devise a plan involving impersonation of Mammootty, blackmailing R.K. Nair with the diary to extract ₹20 lakh. Mammootty aids them, agreeing to meet Nair on the train.

On the day of the showdown, objections, disguises, and tension unfold in a gripping sequence involving a fight and Nair’s confession that he killed Devi fearing exposure.

At Madras station, police arrest Nair following confirmation and testimonies.

The film concludes with the three friends returning home safely, and a final humorous meeting with Mammootty on the No 19 Trivandrum Mail promising new adventures.

Characters and Performances

Tony Kurishingal (Mohanlal):

Exhibits charisma, wit, and charm, infusing humor and suspense.

R.K. Nair (M.G. Soman):

A multifaceted antagonist portraying greed and evil rooted in family secrets.

Hitchcock Kanjikkuzhi (Maniyanpilla Raju):

The detective novelist whose quick thinking aids the investigation.

Kumbalam Hari (Jagadish):

The politician friend adding humor and intrigue.

Devi Nair (Suchitra):

The enigmatic victim whose story anchors the mystery.

Mammootty:

Plays a memorable cameo as himself who helps the protagonists.

Themes and Analysis

Murder Mystery and Suspense:

Effectively blends humor with tension in a classic whodunnit structure.

Friendship and Loyalty:

Emphasizes camaraderie driving the trio to prove their innocence.

Social Secrets and Family Drama:

Illuminates hidden pasts, societal taboos, and consequences of deceit.

Justice and Vigilantism:

Reflects on the quest for truth beyond official procedures.

Direction and Cinematography

Director Joshiy expertly balances thrilling sequences with comedic moments, weaving a layered narrative.

Cinematographer Anandakuttan captures the confined train setting effectively while also portraying Kerala’s scenic landscapes outside the train.

The musical score punctuates moments of suspense and humor, elevating the film experience.

Editing maintains tight pacing to keep audiences engaged throughout.

Reception and Legacy

No 20 Madras Mail was well received critically and commercially, becoming a classic Malayalam thriller blending humor and suspense.

It contributed to the popularity of investigative mystery films in Malayalam cinema and showcased Mohanlal’s versatility as lead hero and comic actor.

The film is regularly referenced by fans for its memorable characters, sharp dialogues, and ingenious plot twists.

Memorable Scenes

• Tony’s attempts to secure a seat next to Devi.

• First encounters and camaraderie with Mammootty.

• Discovery of Devi’s murder and ensuing investigation.

• Fleeing from police and confrontations with Sunil.

• The blackmail setup with impersonation of Mammootty.

• The climactic confrontation and confession on the train.

• The humorous ending on the No 19 Trivandrum Mail.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who directed No 20 Madras Mail?

Joshiy.

Who are the lead actors?

Mohanlal, M.G. Soman, Maniyanpilla Raju, Jagadish, Suchitra, and Mammootty (cameo).

What is the plot?

Three friends traveling from Trivandrum to Madras are embroiled in a murder mystery involving a woman named Devi. They seek to prove their innocence while unraveling the truth.

Is the film a thriller or comedy?

It is a blend of thriller, mystery, and comedy.

Where is the film set?

Mostly on the train No. 20 Madras Mail, and locations in Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

How was the film received?

It was critically acclaimed and commercially successful.

No 20 Madras Mail is a classic Malayalam crime thriller blending thrilling suspense and light-hearted humor seamlessly. Mohanlal’s charismatic portrayal, combined with an engaging plot and sharp script, make it an evergreen favorite for mystery lovers.