Anweshippin Kandethum: 7 must-watch films that study the fine art of redemption

Tovino Thomas slips into the role of a police officer seeking redemption in the Malayalam investigative crime thriller Anweshippin Kandethum which recently dropped on Netflix. The film offers a nuanced exploration of mob justice, casteism, and various societal problems that plague society. For today’s List Hai Toh Hit Hai podcast, we have curated a list of seven must-watch films that explore themes of redemption.

American History X

Directed by Tony Kaye, American History X is a crime drama that revolves around a former neo-Nazi in America on his quest for redemption. The film stars Edward Norton in the lead and explores his character’s life in prison and his attempts to help his brother lead a better life – steering him away from neo-Nazi ideology.

In Bruges

In 2022, Martin McDonagh brought together Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson for the critically-acclaimed black comedy-drama The Banshees of Inisherin. However, it was not the first time McDonagh paired the two Irish actors together. They starred in McDonagh’s underrated black comedy In Bruges. The duo slip into the roles of two hitmen who are sent to Bruges after a botched mission. The narrative navigates through the complexities of Farell’s character, Ray, who is distraught with guilt and Gleeson’s character, Ken, who has been ordered to execute Ray.

Children of Men

The 2006 dystopian film Children of Men is an underrated sci-fi masterpiece helmed by Alfonso Cuarón. Based on P. D. James' 1992 novel, the film stars Clive Owen in the lead, a former activist who leads a mundane life in a world where human beings have become infertile. However, when a young woman miraculously becomes pregnant he is entrusted with her protection and to escort her to a scientific research facility. Julianne Moore, Michael Caine, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Charlie Hunnam play other prominent roles in the film.

The Shawshank Redemption

The film that continues to be ranked at no.1 on IMDB’s all-time Top 100 list is our next pick. Directed by Frank Darabont, The Shawshank Redemption is an adaptation of Stephen King’s novel and it revolves around Andy Dufresne, who is serving a double life sentence in prison. Tim Robbins plays the lead role and it follows his efforts to find redemption by escaping the unforgiving prison. The film also features performances by Morgan Freeman, Bob Gunton, William Sadler, and Clancy Brown among others.

Groundhog Day

The 1993 comedy-drama, Groundhog Day, starring Bill Murray, pioneered the time loop trope. It inspired numerous films such as Edge of Tomorrow, Happy Death Day, and Palm Springs. The plot follows a self-centred weatherman who is inexplicably trapped in a time loop, which is reset every morning. It eventually pushes him towards self-improvement and love. Bill Murray's character, Phil, learns the value of redemption and perseverance while attempting to win over his colleague, Rita. Directed by Harold Ramis, the film explores themes of existentialism and love, remaining a timeless cult classic.

Jerry Maguire

Cameron Crowe’s directorial venture, Jerry Maguire is one of the most popular Tom Cruise comedies of all time. Cruise plays the role of the titular character,  a sports management lawyer who is fired for uncovering a vast conspiracy and corruption within his company. His efforts to rebuild his career on his own are aided by a single client and his devoted assistant. Renée Zellweger and Cuba Gooding Jr play pivotal characters in the film.

Léon: The Professional

Academy Award-winner Natalie Portman made her debut in the iconic 1994 film, Léon: The Professional. She is joined by lead star Jean Reno and supporting actors Gary Oldman and Danny Aiello in Luc Besson’s French-American film. The film revolves around a young girl who becomes a protege to a hitman after her family is murdered. The film continues to be revered in high regard even after 20 years.

Well that's all we got for this episode of List hai toh hit hai, until the next one it's your host Nikhil signing out.

Written by Ryan Gomez

Listen to more OTTplay List Hai Toh Hit Hai podcasts on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.