Mammootty is back in action—and this time, he’s playing an ethical hacker-turned-businessman on a high-stakes hunt for a serial killer.
Sounds intriguing? That’s exactly what Bazooka promises, and for the most part, delivers.
Directed and written by debutant Deeno Dennis, the Malayalam action thriller hit theaters on April 10, 2025, and ever since, fans and film buffs alike have been buzzing about it online. But with so many star-studded thrillers flooding cinemas recently, is Bazooka just another sleek, slow-burn crime drama—or does it pack a real punch?
Let’s dive into what audiences are saying and whether Mammootty’s latest cinematic outing is a must-watch.
A Film Years in the Making, Led by a Vision
The story of Bazooka actually began way back in 2018, when Deeno Dennis—then just a screenwriter—pitched the idea to Mammootty. The actor was so impressed by the concept that he not only agreed to headline the film but encouraged Deeno to take the director's chair himself. That single decision led to what is now one of the most anticipated Malayalam thrillers in recent memory.
The movie was officially announced in 2023, shot across Kochi starting in May that year, and wrapped up production in October 2024. Finally, fans can see the result of nearly seven years of thought, planning, and intense effort.
The Plot: A Tech-Minded Cat and Mouse Game
At its core, Bazooka is a gripping chase between good and evil, brain and brawn. Mammootty plays Antony John, an enigmatic ethical hacker and businessman who joins forces with ACP Benjamin Joshua, played by Gautham Vasudev Menon. Together, they hunt down a mysterious serial killer whose trail leads to unexpected twists.
It’s a story woven with strategy, tension, and smart character dynamics—not just explosions and punches. While the pace slows in some parts, fans are appreciating how the movie respects the intelligence of its audience.
Performances: Mammootty Leads with Gravitas, Gautham Menon Impresses
Mammootty, as expected, owns the screen with his calm intensity. He’s not just flexing muscles here—his portrayal of Antony is cerebral, layered, and a refreshing deviation from his recent action-heavy roles. Fans on X (formerly Twitter) have praised how he brings quiet command and measured aggression, letting the character unfold slowly.
Gautham Vasudev Menon, typically seen behind the camera, delivers a solid turn as a determined cop. His chemistry with Mammootty, though understated, gives the film its grounded emotional center.
Other standouts include:
- Babu Antony as a brooding force,
- Neeta Pillai and Gayathiri Iyer in brief yet impactful roles,
- Shine Tom Chacko and Sidharth Bharathan adding nuance to the supporting cast.
Visuals, Music & Direction: Sleek, Polished, and Purposeful
The technical finesse in Bazooka is impossible to ignore. Nimish Ravi’s cinematography captures Kochi’s urban grit with glossy precision—especially the night sequences and chase shots that feel ripped out of a graphic novel. Editors Nishadh Yusuf and Praveen Prabhakar keep things tight without going overboard on flash.
The background score by Saeed Abbas deserves its own applause. It's atmospheric, pulsing beneath every scene with tension, and ramps up the thrill when needed. His music helps the film tread the fine line between stylized action and grounded crime drama.
As a debut director, Deeno Dennis shows remarkable control over pacing and character buildup. While the story could’ve trimmed a few side plots, his ability to guide a megastar-led project with this much clarity speaks volumes.
VFX, Stunts & Style
The action choreography, executed by a team that includes Mafia Sasi, PC Stunts, and Mahesh Mathew, strikes a balance between slick and believable. The film doesn’t go full superhero mode but adds enough physicality to keep adrenaline flowing.
The VFX teams (Eggwhite, Nocturnal FX, 3Doors, and others) enhance sequences without overwhelming them. The effects never feel gimmicky—more like a subtle boost to keep the immersion alive.
Early Reactions: What Are Audiences Saying?
Reactions are starting to flood in, and early buzz on social media is largely positive, especially from Mammootty fans and lovers of cerebral thrillers. Viewers are appreciating the film’s mature handling of suspense, the mind games, and the layered performances.
Some fans are calling it “one of the most polished Malayalam thrillers in recent times,” while others have pointed out that the film might feel “slow for those expecting nonstop action.” However, the consensus is that Bazooka is a film worth experiencing on the big screen, especially for those who enjoy smart thrillers with a visual punch.
Final Verdict: Is Bazooka Worth Watching?
If you're in the mood for a Malayalam film that doesn’t spoon-feed its thrills and gives you something to think about after the credits roll, Bazooka deserves a spot on your watchlist.
It’s not a mindless action fest—it’s a measured, stylish thriller with standout performances, slick visuals, and a storyline that plays out like a chess match. And with Mammootty leading the charge, there’s hardly a dull moment.
