Prathichaya: Contrary to the claims of being a political thriller, Nivin Pauly sought to term the upcoming film as a family movie with a political backdrop. B Unnikrishnan helms the film.

Last Updated: 03.47 PM, Mar 22, 2026
The upcoming Malayalam movie Prathichaya stars actor Nivin Pauly in the lead role. But contrary to the claims of the film being called a political thriller, Nivin Pauly sought to term Prathichaya as a family film with a political backdrop. The Sarvam Maya star also gave some tidbits of details about his role, John.
The 2026 film Prathichaya, directed by B Unnikrishnan, is set to release in theatres on March 26. Ahead of the film’s release, the cast and director sat down for a chat
“This is a film that talks about a father-son tale. I believe all the relationship dynamics have come out well in the movie. Even though it has a political background, I am sure the family audiences will also be able to enjoy it.

Nivin Pauly plays the son of the state Chief Minister, essayed by senior actor-filmmaker Balachandra Menon. The title Prathichaya means image, and the trailer had spoken about how in politics there are no individuals but just the image.
“All politicians have a family. When an issue comes up, it is not just the politicians who get affected but their families too. This emotional aspect is addressed in the movie,” the actor explained.
Speaking more about his character, Nivin said that he comes from a tech background, but he is also a son trying to solve an issue within his family.
Apart from Nivin and Balachandra Menon in the lead roles, the film also features Sharaf U Dheen in a key role. The film features debutant Neethu Krishna as the female lead, along with Vishnu Agasthya, Harisree Ashokan, Ann Augustine and Maniyanpilla Raju.
Prathichaya arrives in cinemas a week after Jayasurya’s comedy movie Aadu 3 and ahead of Mohanlal-led thriller Drishyam 3.
Nivin Pauly's recent movies include Baby Girl and Sarvam Maya, with the latter turning out to be a blockbuster hit.