Pennu Case actor Nikhila brushed aside criticisms against Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil, saying that even what is being panned as her worst has opened new doors of opportunities for her.

Last Updated: 06.00 PM, Jan 11, 2026
Malayalam actor Nikhila Vimal, whose latest film is Pennu Case, is a social media favorite, often grabbing attention with her ‘Thug’ replies. But the Vazhai actor also drew much flak for her performance in various films, including Prithviraj Sukumaran’s Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil, which many claimed was one of her worst performances. But Nikhila brushed aside these criticisms, saying that even what is being panned as her worst has opened new doors of opportunities for her.

Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil is a 2024 Malayalam film, which starred actor-filmmakers Prithviraj Sukumaran and Basil Joseph along with Nikhila Vimal and Anaswara Rajan. The film, helmed by Vipin Das, was a hit but Nikhila Vimal got trolled for her role and performance. But in an interview with The Cue Studio, Nikhila Vimal defended her choices.
"One of my characters to face much criticism is the one in Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil. But that is a big movie. It was one of the biggest theatrical hits of the year. You may evaluate as it as my worst performance or that I do not know how to act. But that film has given me many positives. All films may not turn out to be hits. But there are takeaways from each movie. I am happy if there is something that I can take home from it,” replied the Pennu Case actor.
Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil revolves around Anandan (Prithviraj) who bonds with his sister Anjali’s fiance Vinu (Basil Joseph). But it is later revealed that Anandan’s wife Parvathy (Nikhila) was Vinu’s former girlfriend, driving a wedge between the two. Nikhila was criticised for her performance with many netizens saying that she had the same expression throughout the movie.
On the other hand, Nikhila Vimal’s latest film Pennu Case released in theatres on January 10. Febin Sidharth has directed the film, which also features Sarvam Maya actor Aju Varghese, and Hakkim Shah.
Q. Where to watch Nikhila Vimal's Pennu Case movie?
A. Nikhila Vimal's latest movie Pennu Case, which released on January 10, 2026, is currently running in theatres.
Q. Who are the actors in Pennu Case?
A. Nikhila Vimal plays the lead role in Pennu Case, which also features actors Irshad Ali, Aju Varghese, Ramesh Pisharody, Shivajith, and PP Kunhikrishnan.
Q. Who directed the movie Pennu case?
A. The 2026 Malayalam movie Pennu case, starring Nikhila Vimal, is directed by debutant Febin Sidharth.
Q. Where to watch Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil?
A. You can watch Guruvayoor Ambalanadayil, starring Prithviraj Sukumaran, Basil Joseph and Nikhila Vimal, on JioHotstar via OTTplay Premium