Officer on Duty (2025) – A Riveting Thriller That Keeps You on Edge!

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Introduction

Malayalam cinema has a knack for delivering intense, thought-provoking thrillers, and Officer on Duty (2025) is no exception. Directed by Jithu Ashraf in his directorial debut and penned by Joseph and Nayattu fame Shahi Kabir, this film promises a blend of suspense, action, and emotional depth. With Kunchacko Boban leading the cast as the troubled cop Harishankar, the movie offers a compelling narrative that keeps audiences engaged from start to finish.

Plot Summary (No Spoilers)

The story revolves around Harishankar, a once-celebrated police officer now demoted to the role of Circle Inspector due to his temperamental and rebellious nature. While adjusting to his new, seemingly uneventful posting, he finds himself entangled in a string of violent crimes that bear an eerie connection to his past. As the investigation unfolds, Harishankar is forced to confront his personal demons, leading to an emotionally charged and action-packed climax.

Power-Packed Performances

Kunchacko Boban as Harishankar

Kunchacko Boban delivers one of his most intense performances to date. He effortlessly portrays a layered character, balancing aggression, vulnerability, and resilience. His portrayal of a man tormented by past trauma while striving to seek justice makes for an engaging watch.

Supporting Cast that Shines

  • Priyamani plays a crucial role that adds emotional weight to the story. Her subtle and powerful performance contributes significantly to the film’s dramatic arc.

  • Jagadish surprises audiences with a serious role, proving his versatility as an actor once again.

  • Vishak Nair and other supporting actors bring authenticity to their roles, making the world of Officer on Duty feel authentic and immersive.

Brilliant Direction & Engaging Screenplay

Director Jithu Ashraf impresses in his debut venture by maintaining a tight grip on the narrative. The film’s pacing is steady, ensuring that the tension remains high throughout. Shahi Kabir’s writing is another highlight, as he expertly blends investigative thriller elements with character-driven storytelling. The dialogues are sharp, and the film never loses focus on its central themes.

Cinematography & Technical Brilliance

The cinematography, handled by Sreejith Sarang, plays a crucial role in setting the film’s dark and intense tone. The gritty visuals, well-executed chase sequences, and raw fight scenes add to the immersive experience. Jakes Bejoy’s background score is another major asset, heightening the suspense and drama at crucial moments.

Themes and Social Commentary


Like many great Malayalam thrillers, Officer on Duty is more than just a crime story—it delves into deeper social issues. The film explores themes of police corruption, the psychological toll of violence on law enforcement officers, and the ethical dilemmas faced in the pursuit of justice. There’s also a subtle but impactful commentary on how crime stories often exploit women’s suffering for dramatic effect, a criticism that has been raised by certain reviewers.

What Critics Are Saying

The film has received generally positive reviews from critics and audiences alike:

  • The Week (Sajin Shrijith) – 4/5 stars: Praised the film’s gripping screenplay and Kunchacko Boban’s performance.

  • Times Now (Rohit Panikker) – 3.5/5 stars: Highlighted the film’s technical finesse but noted its reliance on established genre tropes.

  • The Times of India (Anjana George) – 3/5 stars: Appreciated the engaging thriller elements but critiqued the film’s use of female trauma for shock value.

  • The New Indian Express (Vignesh Madhu) – 3/5 stars: Found the first half highly gripping but felt the latter half followed a predictable pattern.

Box Office Success!

Despite its dark and serious tone, Officer on Duty has performed exceptionally well at the box office. As of early March 2025, the film has grossed over ₹50 crore worldwide, proving its mass appeal.

Where to Watch

For those who missed the theatrical release, Officer on Duty is now available for streaming on Netflix in multiple languages, including Malayalam, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Hindi.

Final Verdict – Should You Watch It?

Officer on Duty is a must-watch for fans of investigative thrillers and Malayalam cinema enthusiasts. While it doesn’t reinvent the genre, it excels in execution, offering a tightly woven narrative, top-notch performances, and gripping suspense. Kunchacko Boban shines in one of his career-best roles, and the film’s emotional depth makes it more than just a crime thriller.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ (4/5)

Whether you’re in for a thrilling investigation or a character-driven drama, Officer on Duty delivers on both fronts. Don’t miss this one!

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