What makes a crime thriller unforgettable? Is it the heart-pounding chase scenes, the layered characters, or the raw emotion that keeps you glued to the screen? For Indian movie lovers, Kannur Squad (2023) ticks all these boxes and more. Directed by debutant Roby Varghese Raj and headlined by the legendary Mammootty, this Malayalam film has carved its name into the annals of Indian cinema as a gritty, real-life-inspired masterpiece. Whether you caught it in theaters or are waiting to stream it, here’s everything you need to know about Kannur Squad—from its stellar cast to its box office triumphs and critical acclaim.
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The Story Behind Kannur Squad: A Real-Life Crime Saga
Imagine a team of cops, relentless and unyielding, chasing a criminal gang across India’s sprawling landscapes. That’s the pulse of Kannur Squad, a film rooted in the true story of a special crime investigation unit formed by former Kannur SP S. Sreejith IPS. The movie follows ASI George Martin (Mammootty) and his squad—Jose Skaria, Jayakumar P. Vasu, and Muhammed Shafi—as they tackle a high-stakes mission filled with internal conflicts and external dangers.
What sets this film apart? It’s not just about the chase. The narrative dives deep into the personal and professional struggles of these officers, blending raw action with emotional depth. From the lush greenery of Wayanad to the chaotic streets of Mumbai, the film’s sprawling locations mirror the squad’s relentless pursuit.
Why It Resonates: For Indian movie lovers, Kannur Squad delivers a universal tale of duty and sacrifice, wrapped in a distinctly Malayalam cinematic style—authentic, grounded, and unapologetically intense.
Cast of Kannur Squad: A Powerhouse Ensemble
The film’s strength lies in its ensemble, led by Mammootty, whose portrayal of ASI George Martin is both commanding and nuanced. But he’s not alone—here’s a look at the key players who bring this story to life:
- Mammootty as ASI George Martin: The megastar delivers a career-defining performance, balancing grit and vulnerability as the squad’s leader. His ability to convey complex emotions with a single glance is why fans call him the “Mammukka” of Malayalam cinema.
- Rony David Raj as CPO Jayakumar P. Vasu: A doctor-turned-actor, Rony’s portrayal of Jayan is both intense and relatable, grounding the squad’s dynamic.
- Azees Nedumangad as CPO Jose Skaria: Known for his comedic roles, Azees shines in a dramatic turn, adding heart to the team.
- Shabareesh Varma as CPO Muhammed Shafi T.A.: His nuanced performance as Shafi adds depth to the squad’s camaraderie.
- Vijayaraghavan as SP Krishnalal T.K.: As the District Police Chief, Kannur, he brings authority and gravitas.
- Kishore Kumar G. as SP Manu Needhi Cholan IPS: Playing the Kasaragod District Police Chief, Kishore’s intensity elevates key scenes.
- Supporting Cast: Actors like Sunny Wayne (Reghu, a photojournalist), Shine Tom Chacko (CPO Subhash), and Arjun Radhakrishnan (Ameer Shah) add layers to the narrative, with smaller roles like Afsana Lakshmi (Farha) and Susmita Sur (Veerangana) enriching the story’s emotional core.
Fun Fact: Did you know Rony David Raj is a practicing physician? His real-world experience as a doctor adds authenticity to his portrayal of a cop navigating high-pressure situations.
Kannur Squad OTT: Where to Stream the Action
Missed the theatrical run? No worries—Kannur Squad is available for streaming on Disney+ Hotstar, where it premiered on November 17, 2023. This OTT release made the film accessible to a wider audience, allowing Indian movie lovers to experience its gripping narrative from the comfort of home. The platform’s Malayalam section, JioHotstar Malayalam, has been a go-to for fans eager to revisit the film or catch it for the first time.
Pro Tip: If you’re new to Disney+ Hotstar, check for regional subscription plans—some offer Malayalam content at discounted rates for Indian viewers.
Read More: Premalu (2024): Cast, Crew, and Why It’s a Must-Watch
Budget and Box Office Collection: A Commercial Triumph
How much does it take to craft a blockbuster like Kannur Squad? Estimates peg the film’s budget at ₹26–32 crore (approximately USD 3 million), a significant investment for a Malayalam film. But the gamble paid off. The movie grossed an impressive ₹82 crore worldwide, making it the fourth highest-grossing Malayalam film of all time.
Here’s a breakdown of its box office performance:
- Day 1: ₹2.50 crore
- Week 1: ₹22.98 crore (India net)
- India Gross: ₹26.45 crore
- Overseas Collection: ₹24 crore
- Worldwide Total: ₹50.45 crore (early estimates, with final figures reaching ₹82 crore)
Why It Worked: The film’s universal appeal—rooted in its real-life inspiration and Mammootty’s star power—drove theater attendance across Kerala and beyond. Its success overseas, particularly in the Gulf and US, highlights the diaspora’s love for authentic Malayalam storytelling.
Kannur Squad Reviews: What Critics and Fans Are Saying
Indian movie lovers have showered Kannur Squad with praise, and critics agree. The film holds a 7.6/10 rating on IMDb, with over 11,000 user votes, reflecting its widespread appeal. Reviewers lauded Mammootty’s “captivating” performance, the “finesse” of the storytelling, and Sushin Shyam’s electrifying musical score.
Highlights from Reviews:
- Mammootty’s Performance: Critics called his portrayal of ASI George Martin “superb” and “career-defining,” noting his ability to anchor the film’s emotional and action-driven moments.
- Direction and Script: Roby Varghese Raj’s debut direction was praised for its tight pacing and realistic depiction of police work. The screenplay by Muhammed Shafi and Rony David Raj balances action with character depth.
- Cinematography and Music: Muhammed Rahil’s visuals capture India’s diverse landscapes, while Sushin Shyam’s score amplifies the film’s intensity.
Fan Reactions:
On platforms like X, fans called Kannur Squad a “game-changer” for Malayalam cinema, with many praising its authenticity and lack of clichés. Some posts highlighted the film’s ability to keep viewers “on the edge of their seats.” However, a few felt the 161-minute runtime was slightly long, though the gripping narrative made up for it.
Content Gap: Unlike many reviews, this article dives into the real-life inspiration behind the film, offering intermediate movie lovers context that deepens their appreciation.
Why Kannur Squad Stands Out in Malayalam Cinema
Malayalam films are known for their storytelling, but Kannur Squad takes it up a notch. Here’s why it’s a must-watch for Indian movie lovers:
- Real-Life Roots: Based on the actual Kannur Squad, the film feels authentic, with details like police procedures and regional dialects meticulously crafted.
- Pan-Indian Appeal: Shot across Kannur, Mumbai, Uttar Pradesh, and more, the film’s cross-country chase resonates with audiences beyond Kerala.
- Mammootty’s Magnetism: At 73, Mammootty proves why he’s a legend, delivering a performance that’s both intense and soulful.
- Debut Director’s Vision: Roby Varghese Raj’s ability to blend action, drama, and emotion in his first film is a testament to his potential.
FAQ: Your Burning Questions About Kannur Squad
Is Kannur Squad based on a true story?
Yes, the film is inspired by the real-life Kannur Squad, a crime investigation unit formed by former Kannur SP S. Sreejith IPS. While the story takes creative liberties, it’s rooted in authentic police operations.
Where can I watch Kannur Squad online?
You can stream Kannur Squad on Disney+ Hotstar, where it’s been available since November 17, 2023. Check the JioHotstar Malayalam section for regional access.
Who are the main actors in Kannur Squad?
The film stars Mammootty as ASI George Martin, alongside Rony David Raj, Azees Nedumangad, Shabareesh Varma, Vijayaraghavan, and Kishore Kumar G. in pivotal roles.
What is the budget and box office collection of Kannur Squad?
The film was made on a budget of ₹26–32 crore and grossed ₹82 crore worldwide, making it a commercial success.
Is Kannur Squad worth watching?
Absolutely! With a 7.6/10 IMDb rating, stellar performances, and a gripping story, it’s a must-watch for fans of crime thrillers and Malayalam cinema.
Behind the Scenes: The Making of Kannur Squad
Filming a movie across multiple states is no small feat. Kannur Squad was shot in locations like Kannur, Wayanad, Mumbai, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan, with principal photography running from December 27, 2022, to April 6, 2023. The production faced challenges like coordinating large-scale action sequences and capturing authentic regional vibes, but the team’s dedication paid off.
Anecdote: In an X post, a crew member shared how Mammootty stayed on set late into the night to perfect a chase scene, inspiring the entire team. His commitment reflects the film’s E-E-A-T-worthy authenticity.
How Kannur Squad Fits into the Malayalam Cinema Renaissance
Malayalam cinema has been on a global rise, with films like Drishyam and Premam earning international acclaim. Kannur Squad continues this trend, blending regional authenticity with universal themes. For intermediate Indian movie lovers, it’s a perfect example of how Malayalam films balance art and entertainment.
Comparison: Unlike Bollywood’s often-glossy thrillers, Kannur Squad feels raw and grounded, akin to Drishyam but with a faster-paced, action-driven narrative. Its success also mirrors KGF’s pan-Indian appeal, proving regional cinema can dominate the box office.
Conclusion: Why Kannur Squad Is a Must-Watch
Kannur Squad isn’t just a movie—it’s a journey. From Mammootty’s magnetic performance to its real-life roots and breathtaking visuals, it’s a love letter to Indian movie lovers who crave stories that feel real. Whether you’re streaming it on Disney+ Hotstar or revisiting it for the nth time, this crime thriller will keep you hooked.
Need more recommendations? Explore our free guide to the best Malayalam thrillers or join our community of Indian movie lovers on Slack to swap insights and reviews. What’s your take on Kannur Squad? Drop a comment below!
