Sometimes, a movie appears quietly, without fanfare or famous names, and effortlessly embeds itself in your memory. Su from So, the debut by JP Thuminad, is one such rare cinematic gem. It doesn’t shout for attention—it gently draws you in, gradually immersing you in its strange, touching, and witty universe.
Set in a vibrant seaside village where customs and oddities coexist, the story revolves around Ravi Anna (Shaneel Gowtham), a dependable local fixer, and Ashoka, an innocent boy captivated by the scent of Lux soap. Two constants shape this town—alcohol and Ravi’s unwavering presence. But things shift when Sulochana arrives—not as a character, but a mysterious force.
Lights flicker, shadows pass, and whispers float through the air as the supernatural begins to unravel emotions long buried. The story moves from light-hearted absurdity to quiet melancholy, asking deeper questions about love, loss, and rage masked in folklore.
Thuminad, playing Ashoka, handles the shift from comedic curiosity to eerie intensity with finesse. Gowtham delivers a grounded, believable performance as the emotionally burdened hero. A surprise appearance by Raj B Shetty offers a perfect satirical balance, spoofing self-proclaimed spiritual gurus while still respecting faith.
Technically strong, the film boasts evocative cinematography, nostalgic music, and smart editing. Rather than leaning on jump scares or slapstick, it explores themes like grief, gender identity, and village superstitions with warmth and wit.
A local story with universal appeal, Su from So is haunting, hilarious, and wholly unforgettable.