Romancham is a 2023 Malayalam-language horror-comedy film that marks the directorial debut of Jithu Madhavan. Inspired by real-life paranormal experiences of the director and his friends during their college days, the movie effortlessly blends humor, camaraderie, and supernatural elements. Featuring an ensemble cast led by Soubin Shahir, Arjun Ashokan, Sajin Gopu, Siju Sunny, Abin Bino, Anantharaman Ajay, and Afsal P. H., Romancham explores the chaotic and hilarious consequences when seven bachelors staying in a men’s hostel in Bangalore attempt to summon a spirit using a Ouija board. The film’s narrative charm, character dynamics, and cultural resonance helped it become a commercial success and the fifth highest-grossing Malayalam film of 2023.

Plot Summary

Set in 2007, the story begins with Jibin waking up in the ICU after suffering meningitis, eager to tell his roommates about an alarming experience but is barred by hospital staff. He narrates the events leading up to his hospitalization.

The central characters—Jibin, Rivin, Niroop, Shijappan, Mukesh, Karikuttan, and Soman—are seven young men sharing a rented house in Bangalore. Except for Rivin and Karikuttan, who hold full-time jobs, others are job seekers or dabble in small businesses.

One day, Jibin notices a group conducting a séance using a Ouija board to contact spirits. Inspired, he improvises a séance with a carrom board and convinces the group, except Rivin, who declines due to his religious beliefs. To maintain the ruse when nothing happens, Jibin and Shijappan secretly move the glass to create the illusion of spirit communication, inventing the name Anamika for the entity.

Their séances gain popularity among friends. Eventually, the spirit answers previously unknown questions correctly, including one about a deceased person, stunning the group. More locals come to seek guidance from Anamika.

As supernatural events escalate—such as Rivin losing his way home and Karikuttan mistakenly filling a petrol tank with diesel—the roommates grow anxious. They decide to stop the séances but the entangled spirit’s influence intensifies.

Sinu, a friend, joins as a temporary resident and starts showing weird behavior—catatonic episodes and talking to unseen entities, adding to horror and tension. Despite their fear, the group struggles to cope as Anamika’s presence disrupts their lives, leading to chaos and worsening conditions.

Ultimately, the film leaves open-ended possibilities hinting at the spirit’s lasting impact and possible continuation in future narratives.

Characters and Performances

Jibin (Soubin Shahir):

As the story’s narrator and initiator, Soubin delivers a natural, charismatic performance that balances earnestness and comedic timing.

Rivin (Arjun Ashokan):

The committed skeptic whose faith forms key conflict lines. His subtle expressions add depth to the story.

Niroop (Sajin Gopu) and Shijappan (Siju Sunny):

Both provide memorable comic moments, with Shijappan playing the practical confidante often caught in humorous situations.

Mukesh, Karikuttan, and Soman (Supporting Cast):

Each adds unique quirks and relatable traits to the ensemble, enriching the group dynamics.

Themes and Cinematic Elements

Friendship and Camaraderie:

The core of Romancham is the humorous and affectionate portrayal of roommates navigating life’s uncertainties and absurdities.

Supernatural and Humor Blend:

The film marries spooky elements with genuine laughter, creating organic comedic moments rooted in believable characters.

Fear of the Unknown and Belief:

The movie explores varying attitudes toward the supernatural and religious faith within a modern youth context.

Youthful Restlessness and Confusion:

The characters’ responses mirror broader themes of youth’s search for meaning and entertainment in uncertain times.

Direction and Visuals

Jithu Madhavan’s directorial style is confident, favoring realistic character interactions over cheap scares. The screenplay cleverly alternates between suspense build-up and comic relief.

Cinematography captures the confined, somewhat grim hostel environment with warm, naturalistic tones that heighten relatability rather than horror.

Sushin Shyam’s music complements the film well, using lively cues and atmospheric sound design that sustains engagement and mood shifts.

Editing maintains narrative flow, balancing multiple character arcs while preserving the story’s quirky yet grounded tone.

Reception and Impact

Romancham was well received both commercially and critically for its fresh take on horror comedy. Audiences appreciated the honest portrayal of friendship and believable characters.

Reviews highlighted the film’s success in avoiding typical horror clichés while making supernatural themes accessible and funny.

The film sparked a wave of interest in ensemble cast stories emphasizing male bonding and urban youth dynamics in Malayalam cinema.

Memorable Scenes

• The group’s introduction and depiction of hostel lifestyle.

• The first séance with the improvised Ouija board traction.

• The genuinely funny segments of the roommates arguing and dealing with disturbances.

• Moments of paranoia juxtaposed with slapstick comedy.

• The eerie scenes involving Sinu’s mysterious nocturnal behaviors.

• The unresolved ending hinting at a sequel.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who directed Romancham?

Jithu Madhavan directed the film.

What is the movie about?

It tells the story of seven roommates in Bangalore who try to summon a spirit using a Ouija board, resulting in a mix of supernatural and comedic events.

Is Romancham a horror film?

It is a horror-comedy blending light supernatural elements with humor.

Who are the lead actors?

Soubin Shahir, Arjun Ashokan, Sajin Gopu, and Siju Sunny lead the ensemble cast.

What sets Romancham apart from other horror-comedies?

Its basis on true college experiences, realistic character portrayals, and natural humor.

Was the film commercially successful?

Yes, it was the fifth highest grossing Malayalam film of 2023.

Are there plans for a sequel?

The film’s ending leaves room for continuation, generating anticipation.

What kind of comedy is featured?

Situational comedy and character-driven humor.

Romancham is a brilliant mix of friendship, supernatural mystery, and laugh-out-loud moments grounded in the everyday life of young men navigating college days away from home. With engaging performances and a balanced tone, it’s a must-watch for fans of Malayalam cinema and horror-comedy lovers alike.