Ponman on OTT: Why you should watch Basil Joseph’s Malayalam thriller drama

Basil Joseph once again proved that he is a versatile actor with his latest Malayalam film, Ponman, which also stars Saj in Gopu and Lijomol Jose. Ponman narrates an underdog tale through the story of protagonist PP Ajish, blending in themes of drama and thriller. Ponman is set to make its OTT debut on JioHotstar from March 14, 2025. From the gripping plot to terrific performances, here are the reasons as to why Basil Joseph-starrer Ponman should be on your watchlist for the week. 

Why watch Ponman on JioHotstar

Ponman’s engrossing plot

Basil Joseph’s Ponman is based on GR Indugopan's popular novel Naalanchu Cheruppakar. Helmed by art director-turned-filmmaker Jothish Shankar, Ponman is backed by a solid plot and strong performances. The Malayalam movie portrays the ordeal of PP Ajesh, who lends gold jewellery for the bride that is to be returned after the wedding. However, when the bride’s husband Mariyano holds on to the gold, Ajesh has to reclaim any cost. This sets up a relatable yet engrossing tale of a common man who is fighting merely for the survival of himself and his family. Even as Malayalam cinema churns out gripping thriller movies such as Rekhachithram, Ponman stands out among recent releases as it combines the thriller elements and dramatic moments to ensure a compelling watch.

Also read - Basil Joseph films to binge-watch on OTT that showcase his versatility as an actor 

Basil Joseph’s stellar performance

Basil Joseph, who impressed as Joymon from Jan-e-Man, effortlessly slips into the character of Ajesh, who has to stand up to the formidable Mariyano to reclaim what is rightfully his. Basil brilliantly embodies the struggles of Ajesh, even while putting up a brave face of resilience. After the mild-mannered yet cunning Manuel in Sookshmadarshini, Basil quickly switches gears to breathe life into this tale of underdogs. 

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Sajin Gopu, Lijomol Jose and rest of Ponman cast

Sajin Gopu, who was instantly liked by audiences for his performance as Amban from Fahadh Faasil’s action-comedy Aavesham, is the intimidating Mariyano to Basil’s Ajesh. On the other hand, Lijomol beautifully portrays Steffi, Mariyano’s wife, whose wedding was the catalyst for this mayhem. Anand Manmadhan, Deepak Parambol, Sandhya Rajendran, and Jaya Kurup ably support the lead cast. 

Ponman will release on JioHotstar on March 14, 2025.