Azadi (2025 film)

Azadi is a 2025 Indian Malayalam-language crime thriller film directed by debutant Jo George and written by Sagar.^[2] The film stars Sreenath Bhasi, Vani Viswanath, Lal, Saiju Kurup, and Raveena Ravi in pivotal roles. The film is inspired from a true incident.^[3] It is produced by Faizal Raja under the banner of Little Crew Production, the film was released theatrically on 23 May 2025. The film did receive a U/A 16+ certificate for strong bloody violence.^[4]

Azadi
Theatrical release poster
Directed by	Jo George
Written by	Sagar
Screenplay by	Sagar
Produced by	Faizal Raja
Starring	Sreenath Bhasi Vani Viswanath Lal Saiju Kurup Raveena Ravi
Cinematography	Saneesh Stanly
Edited by	Noufal Abdulla
Music by	Varun Unni
Production company	Little Crew Production
Distributed by	Central Pictures
Release date	23 May 2025 (2025-05-23)
Running time	129 minutes[1]
Country	India
Language	Malayalam

Plot

Set primarily within the confines of Kottayam Medical College, the narrative follows Ganga, a pregnant prisoner accused of murdering a political leader's son. As she is admitted to the hospital to deliver her baby, her husband Raghu devises a 24-hour escape plan involving a network of insiders. However, their past catches up with them as adversaries infiltrate the hospital, turning the escape mission into a perilous fight for survival. The film delves into themes of justice, revenge, and the complexities of human relationships.^[5]

Cast

• Sreenath Bhasi as Raghu
• Raveena Ravi as Ganga
• Lal as Kaappa Shivan
• Vani Viswanath as Rani IPS
• Saiju Kurup as Sam
• Vijayakumar as Sub Inspector Hakkim
• Maala Parvathi as Doctor
• Gilu Joseph as Mini
• Abhiram Radhakrishnan as Sathyan
• T. G. Ravi as Adv. Gangadhara Menon
• Rajesh Sharma as Pappan
• Shobi Thilakan as Superintendent of Police William Francis IPS
• Boban Samuel as Mohan
• Asha Madathil Sreekanth as Renuka

Production

Azadi marks the directorial debut of Jo George. The screenplay was penned by Sagar, known for his work in films like Veekam and Sathyam Mathrame Bodhippikku. The film's cinematography was handled by Saneesh Stanly, with editing by Noufal Abdulla. Varun Unni composed the music, while the production design was led by Sahas Bala.^[6]

Music

The film's music was composed by Varun Unni, with lyrics written by Harinarayanan. The soundtrack complements the film's intense narrative and emotional depth.^[7]

Release

Theatrical

Azadi was released in theaters across India on 23 May 2025,^[8][9] coinciding with the 75th anniversary of Central Pictures, the film's distributor.^[10][11]

Home Media

The film secured its digital streaming rights with ManoramaMAX prior to its theatrical release, a rare move in the Malayalam film industry.^[12] The OTT release date is 27'th June 2025.^[13]

Reception

Critics praised Azadi for its gripping narrative and strong performances. Sreenath Bhasi's portrayal of Raghu was highlighted for its intensity, while Vani Viswanath's return to the screen as a formidable police officer was well-received. The film's unique setting—a prison break unfolding within a hospital—was noted for adding a fresh twist to the genre.^{[14] [15]}