Alappuzha Gymkhana Movie Reviews

Where To Watch:
In Theaters: USA  INDIA  

CRITICAL RESPONSE

Alappuzha Gymkhana emerges as a refreshing and unconventional sports drama that breaks away from the genre’s usual tropes. Directed by Khalid Rahman and headlined by Naslen, the film is praised for its light tone, youthful energy, and genre-subverting narrative. Multiple critics commend its grounded storytelling, charming ensemble cast, and the way it highlights failure and resilience over glorified victory. Baradwaj Rangan describes it as a "lightweight, likeable boxing drama," while The Hindu notes its deviation from emotional highs, instead focusing on relatable underdog moments. OTTPlay calls it “one of the sweetest underdog tales in recent times,” and India Today lauds its “charming chaos.” However, some critics point out that the film’s lack of a strong story arc and uneven emotional payoff slightly undercut its impact. Still, the film consistently earns praise for being fun, engaging, and emotionally resonant, especially in its portrayal of characters not destined for greatness but still willing to fight.

Verdict:

A fresh sports drama that charms with its spirit rather than spectacle. While it may lack the emotional intensity or narrative sharpness of traditional sports films, Alappuzha Gymkhana stands out with its warm vibe, relatable characters, and genre-defying storytelling.