Praavu

Praavu  is a 2023 Indian Malayalam-language romantic thriller film written and directed by Navaz Ali. The film was produced by P.R. Rajasekharan under the banner of CET Cinema Pvt. Ltd. The film has an ensemble cast of leading actors like Amith Chakalakkal, Sabumon Abdusamad, Yami Sona, Manoj K.U, Adarsh Raja, and Nisha Sarang in lead roles. The film was distributed by Dulquer Salmaan's Wayfarer Films.

The music and background score was composed by Bijibal and the lyrics were penned by B.K.Harinarayanan, while the cinematography and editing were handled by Antony Jo and Jovin John.

Principal photography began on 1 December 2022. The filming took place in and around Thiruvananthapuram and was wrapped up on 30 December 2022. The post-production works were started in January 2023. Praavu was released on 15 September 2023.

Synopsis
A romantic thriller that transcribes how the lives of two young lovers and four middle-aged adults transform into something unexpected post the incident when treachery de innocence. The movie depicts imperfect characters who are among us in society and their instincts, judgments, decisions, and consequences the Audience will get a roller coaster experience that is full of emotions, play, struggle, and renewal.

It's actually a thought-provoking film that explores the themes of deep love on one side and strength, toxic masculinity prevalent in society on the other side. The film follows the story of a woman's resilience after a traumatic incident and the protagonist's struggle with his role in it.

Production
The title of the film was officially announced on 28 November 2022. The first look poster was released on 18 August 2023 by megastar Mammootty through his social media handles.

Filming
The makers started the principal photography on 1 December 2022 with the switch-on ceremony and completed it on 30 December 2022. It took 30 days to complete the shoot. The major shooting was completed in Thiruvananthapuram, Ponmudi, Kallar, and Vithura.

Music
The original background score and songs are composed by Bijibal. The lyrics were penned by B.K.Harinarayanan. The song "Oru Kattu Pathayil" was sung by Ranjith Jayaraman. The music rights of the film were bagged by Manorama Music and Songs.

Release
The film was released on 15 September 2023. The official trailer and the release date have been announced by Dulquer Salmaan through social media handles.

Critical response
K. R. Rejeesh of Now Running wrote "Praavu" is based on P Padmarajan's short story and its theme finely blends with the events in current society. Despite the flaws in presentation, the evocative and emotional trait of the film helps it emerge smartly in the end.