Padakkalam Review: Sharaf U Dheen Shines in This Must-Watch Malayalam Comedy on JioHotstar

When Comedy, Magic, and Campus Collide

Some movies land on your screen quietly and leave you laughing out loud, feeling light and nostalgic. Padakkalam is one such film. As someone who just recently discovered the comic genius of Sharaf U Dheen, I can honestly say—I’m officially a fan!

From quirky body swaps to nerdy superhero banter, this film blends the wacky with the wonderful. And yes—Sandeep Pradeep completely nailed it in his role as the geeky college hero, while Suraj Venjaramoodu reminds us once again why he’s considered a master of comic drama.

 The Plot That Spirals (In a Good Way)

Set in a fictional tech college, Padakkalam introduces us to a gang of comic-book obsessed friends—Jithin (Sandeep Pradeep), Ramsad, Kannan, and Nakul—living their best nerd life. When a charming but shady professor, Ranjith(played brilliantly by Sharaf U Dheen), dabbles in black magic using a Pachisi board, all hell breaks loose. Quite literally.

Through a freak spell, Ranjith ends up swapping bodies with another professor, Shaji (Suraj Venjaramoodu), triggering hilarious and chaotic events across the campus.

 Why Sharaf U Dheen is the Star of the Show

Sharaf U Dheen’s comic timing is electric. He’s mischievous, eccentric, and wildly entertaining as the morally questionable professor who somehow makes you laugh even when he’s the villain.

I’ve seen Sharaf in other roles before, but Padakkalam is where he completely owns the screen with both energy and eccentricity. Every dialogue feels natural, and every scene he’s in lifts the tempo of the film.

 Surprise Performer: Sandeep Pradeep

Let’s take a moment to appreciate Sandeep Pradeep. His role as Jithin is relatable, fresh, and surprisingly effective. He portrays the “ordinary guy caught in extraordinary situations” trope with such charm that you’ll root for him all the way.

Whether it’s his nervous energy around the professor or the confusion that follows the body-swap chaos, his performance never dips. A definite breakout to watch!

 Suraj Venjaramoodu: The Veteran That Holds It All Together

No one does “serious with a side of silly” like Suraj Venjaramoodu. Whether he’s a confused professor or just reacting to the madness around him, he’s a total delight to watch. His presence adds credibility, warmth, and a touch of wisdom to an otherwise madcap movie.

He’s not just playing a part—he’s anchoring the whole film with his calm amidst the storm.

Music, Visuals & Vibes

• Music by Rajesh Murugesan is quirky, fun, and youthful

• Cinematography by Anu Moothedath brings the campus alive

• Vibrant visuals and cleverly staged sequences make this a great OTT watch

 Where to Watch?

NOW STREAMING on JioHotstar
If you haven’t seen it yet—trust me, it’s the perfect weekend watch. Light-hearted, laugh-out-loud funny, and just the kind of cinematic break we all need.

 Final Thoughts: Just Hit Play

Sometimes, the best stories aren’t the most serious ones—but the ones that make you smile.
Padakkalam is a comic fantasy done right—with the right cast, the right madness, and all the right moments.

Whether you’re a Sharaf U Dheen fan or someone new to this genre, this movie delivers laughs, chaos, and charm in just the right mix. And yes, Sandeep Pradeep? Keep an eye on that name.