Sports dramas often follow a predictable path — the underdog, the big dream, the training montage, the ultimate victory. Malayalam film Alappuzha Gymkhana, now streaming on SonyLIV, dares to dance to a different rhythm. Directed by Khalid Rahman, the film may draw from familiar tropes but spins them into something quirky, heartfelt, and refreshing.

A misfit gang with gloves on

At the core is the story of five friends from Alappuzha — Jojo, DJ, Valthu, Cherthu, and Shanavas — who, after flunking their Class 12 exams, turn to boxing not out of passion, but necessity, to gain college admission through sports quota. It’s this honest absurdity that sets the tone — comedy meets ambition in the most unfiltered Gen-Z way.

Naslen, as Jojo, subverts the typical “hero” arc. He starts off cocky and dismissive, only to evolve into someone who genuinely respects the sport and his friendships. It’s not a tale of individual glory — rather, a collective coming-of-age. Jojo’s transformation is subtle yet striking.

Hits and misses

Where the film succeeds is in its character work and performances — each friend has depth, even if some arcs are more fully realized than others. Lukman Avaran, as coach Antony Joshua, offers intrigue but ultimately feels underdeveloped — a missed opportunity for emotional heft.

The screenplay is where the gloves slip. Unlike Thallumaala, which handled narrative jumps with finesse, Alappuzha Gymkhana struggles with transitions. Some scenes soar, others stagger.

Visual finesse vs audio fumble

Cinematographer Jimshi Khalid brings visual dynamism, turning training sessions and showdowns into cinematic poetry. But Vishnu Vijay’s score — while promising in parts — doesn’t pack the consistent punch that’s crucial in a sports film. Background music, especially, lacks the emotional propulsion such stories need.

Final round verdict

Despite its flaws, Alappuzha Gymkhana earns its place for daring to tweak the formula. It’s messy in parts, but that messiness feels lived-in. The humour, the youthful camaraderie, and the refreshing character arcs make it a welcome detour from the tried-and-tested path.

Rating: 3.5/5