The writer shares behind-the-scenes insights on Tovino’s dedication to portraying a complex character in the gripping Malayalam film
Kerala [India], July 20: Malayalam star Tovino Thomas has once again earned critical acclaim for his powerful role in Narivetta, now streaming on SonyLIV and OTTplay Premium. As audiences continue to appreciate the film’s emotional depth and political relevance, its writer Abin Joseph opened up about working closely with Tovino and the intensity he brought to the project.
Narivetta, directed by Anuraj Manohar and marking Abin Joseph’s screenwriting debut, follows the story of Varghese — a reluctant, indifferent police officer thrust into the heart of a tribal protest. Initially detached from the plight of the tribal community, Varghese undergoes a dramatic transformation after a triggering event, eventually emerging as a fierce advocate for their cause.
A Role That Demanded Range
Speaking about the role, Abin said, “There are different shades of Tovino’s character, and its graph is a bit complicated. I think it is one of the two or three most complex roles Tovino has played. He pulled it off beautifully.”
Joseph, who observed Tovino up close during the shoot, highlighted how the actor fully immersed himself in the character. “When you watch Tovino perform from a close range, you get a better understanding of the intensity. He was deeply involved both as a star and an artiste.”
From Chill to Committed
Abin noted a stark contrast in Tovino’s demeanor during various shooting phases. “During the romantic sequences shot in Kuttanad, he was relaxed, joking around. But during the intense protest scenes, he would sit quietly, absorbed in the mood. I don’t even think he was aware of the shift — it came naturally.”
About Narivetta
The film climaxes in a gripping face-off between tribal protestors and the police, culminating in a brutal crackdown. Tovino’s character shifts from a carefree romantic in the early scenes to a voice for the oppressed — a transformation that anchors the film’s emotional weight.
With Narivetta, Abin Joseph makes a striking debut as a screenwriter, while Tovino once again proves why he’s one of Malayalam cinema’s most versatile and dependable performers.
Watch More of Tovino on OTT
Apart from Narivetta, viewers can also catch Tovino Thomas in other celebrated films such as the survival drama 2018, the romantic thriller Mayaanadhi, and the action-packed Identity, all available on OTTplay Premium.