Detective Ujjwalan (U/A)
23/May/2025

Detective Ujjwalan

Critics Review

2.50

A modest whodunit that misses the killer punch

Detective Ujjwalan is a modest mystery that works in parts. It starts strong, has a likeable lead, and manages to entertain with its humour and setting. However, it falls short of creating real tension or emotional depth. An undercooked antagonist, predictable turns, and a lack of real suspense keep it from becoming the engaging whodunit it aspires to be. You can enjoy it for its light-hearted tone and effort to build a local hero universe, but don�t expect nail-biting thrills. It�s a decent weekend watch, especially if you're curious about where the universe goes next. Let us just hope the next instalment raises the stakes a bit more.(more)

Source: Vivek Santhosh, The New Indian Express

2.00

A Scooby-Doo-esque tale weighed down by mediocre writing and Dhyan Sreenivasan

Playing with the frames, particularly their pace, cuts and even aspect ratio, he gives the movie a uniqueness that many in the cast and crew couldn�t. Rzee�s music complements these efforts, though not always seamlessly. Prem Akkattu and Sraiyanti deliver commendable work in cinematography, particularly in scenes featuring the killer. Koyaz M�s art direction, Nisar Rahmath�s costume design and Shaji Pulpally�s makeup also deserve praise for elevating the film�s visual texture.(more)

Source: Anandu Suresh, Indian Express

2.50

A thriller that cannot sustain on Dhyan's charm

Detective Ujjwalan does not use any of these devices in a forceful enough manner. The period settings are interesting and the village characters are loveable enough, though some of the superb comic talents from social media, Ameen, Nihal Nizam, Nibraz and Shahubas, are barely utilised. The film seems to go in the direction of most Dhyan films; a bit of an anti-climax(more)

Source: Anna Mathews, Times Of India