Chennai: Mareesan, directed by Sudheesh Shankar and produced by R.B. Choudary under Super Good Films, marks a unique collaboration between Malayalam star Fahadh Faasil and veteran Tamil comedian Vadivelu. Released in theatres on July 25, 2025, and later streaming on Netflix from August 22, 2025, the film combines drama, suspense, and emotion while revolving largely around just two central characters.

Plot summary

Dayal (Fahadh Faasil), a small-time thief, resumes his old ways soon after being released from jail. During a burglary, he stumbles upon Vedachalam (Vadivelu), who is found chained inside a house. Vedachalam claims that he suffers from Alzheimer’s and has been locked up by his son to prevent him from wandering.

Offering Dayal ₹25,000 to free him, Vedachalam sets off on a journey to meet a friend in Arunachalam. Dayal, tempted after discovering that Vedachalam’s bank account holds ₹25 lakh, decides to accompany him. The two set off on a stolen bike, and their journey quickly becomes mysterious and dangerous.

At every stop Vedachalam mentions, the duo encounter shocking revelations—connected people are discovered murdered. This raises unsettling questions: Who truly is Vedachalam? What dark secrets lie in his past? And who is behind the killings?

Suspenseful narrative

The film opens with a symbolic sequence of a mouse escaping a trap only to encounter a venomous snake, foreshadowing the dangers ahead. The relationship between Dayal, a manipulative thief, and Vedachalam, a seemingly helpless patient, drives the tension.

Sudheesh Shankar keeps the screenplay tight, introducing new characters and twists at crucial points to prevent monotony. The film explores themes of trust, transformation, and redemption, emphasising how circumstances shape human choices.

Performances

At the heart of Mareesan are stellar performances. Fahadh Faasil delivers a nuanced portrayal of Dayal, capturing both cunning and vulnerability. Vadivelu, stepping into one of his most layered serious roles, masterfully balances humour, emotion, and suspense. Their chemistry ensures the film remains engaging and emotionally impactful throughout.

Technical aspects

  • Cinematography (Shivaji): Scenic visuals enhance the story while maintaining the narrative’s pace.
  • Music (Yuvan Shankar Raja): The background score adds intensity and resonates with emotional beats.
  • Editing (Sreejith Sarang): Crisp and focused, keeping the film free of unnecessary drag.

Final verdict

Mareesan transcends the suspense thriller format by delivering a meaningful message: selfishness must be shed and sacrifice embraced for life to feel complete. Backed by strong writing, gripping direction, and outstanding performances, the film offers a wholesome mix of entertainment, emotion, and moral reflection.

It is not only a cinematic treat for fans of Fahadh and Vadivelu but also a refreshing reminder of how compelling stories can thrive even with limited characters.