United Kingdom of Kerala Malayalam Movie Review

United Kingdom of Kerala Movie Review

Feature Film | 2025 | U | Drama, Family | 2h 11min
Critics:

United Kingdom of Kerala: A relevant social commentary with equal highs and lows

Despite its timely subject on youth migration and a sincere emotional undercurrent, United Kingdom of Kerala only skims the surface, offering a diluted social commentary wrapped in family drama.
Jun 23, 2025 By K. R. Rejeesh

With a thought-provoking premise and an urgency that calls for the attention of policymakers, United Kingdom of Kerala attempts to tackle a socially pertinent theme-the rising trend of student migration from Kerala to foreign countries. Written and directed by Arun Vaiga, the film sets out with admirable intentions, but its execution falters as it blends a heavy theme with a conventional family drama, resulting in a narrative that feels more peripheral than profound.


At first glance, the title itself piques interest, hinting at a deeper commentary on the state's growing diaspora. The film opens with a 1998 flashback where Roy (Johny Antony) falls in love, only to be forced into a different marriage due to a freak incident. Years later, Roy's wife lives in the UK while he stays back in Kerala with his son Tony (Ranjith Sajeev). Determined to have Tony join his mother in the UK, Roy pushes him to clear the IELTS exam. However, Tony is reluctant, his lack of enthusiasm standing in stark contrast to his father's relentless drive. Enter Father Michael (Indrans), enlisted by Roy to guide his son.


Tony, however, envisions a different path-building a start-up in Kerala alongside classmates, including Eka (Sarangi Shyam). The story intensifies as Tony confronts bureaucratic red tape and government apathy while trying to establish his business. A seemingly unrelated opening scene gains significance in the climax, tying the narrative threads together.


Thematically, the film succeeds in raising an important issue. But while it shows flashes of depth-particularly during a poignant emotional monologue by a student abroad-it never fully dives into the core of its subject. The second half gains some traction, weaving emotional warmth and a feel-good arc, but the first half feels cluttered with filler scenes and repetitive conflicts. Roy's internal turmoil dominates this segment, occasionally overshadowing Tony's development.


Tony's admiration for Aniyan (Rony David Raj), a well-educated farmer living a peaceful life in the hills, adds layers to his character, hinting at a longing for rootedness. But Ranjith Sajeev, though physically fitting the role, struggles to consistently align his expressions with the character's emotional beats. His performance gains occasional strength in moments of aggression, but overall lacks the commanding presence needed of a lead. Johny Antony, on the other hand, shines in his role, effectively anchoring the emotional stakes.


Supporting roles from Meera Vasudevan and Sangeetha enrich Roy's emotional arc, offering subtle boosts to the family drama thread. Rajesh Murugesan's music shows promise, though some song placements feel forced. The screenplay raises a vital concern-the exodus of Kerala's young talent-but lacks the sharpness and cohesion needed to make a lasting impact.


In summary, United Kingdom of Kerala is a well-intentioned social drama that only partially fulfills its potential. While it addresses a timely issue and delivers emotional resonance in parts, the overall treatment remains superficial, with uneven performances and diluted storytelling holding it back from making a stronger statement.

K. R. Rejeesh

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