The Malayalam film industry has long been celebrated for its ability to deliver compelling, content-driven narratives, and Rekhachithram stands as a shining testament to this legacy. Released on January 9, 2025, this mystery crime thriller, directed by Jofin T. Chacko and starring Asif Ali and Anaswara Rajan, has not only captivated audiences but also rewritten box office records for its lead actor and the industry in its opening months of the year. With its gripping storyline, stellar performances, and impressive financial success, Rekhachithram has solidified its place as the highest-grossing Malayalam film of 2025 so far. Now, with its OTT release, the film is set to reach an even wider audience.
A Resounding Success
Rekhachithram hit theaters with a bang, earning widespread acclaim from both critics and viewers for its innovative storytelling and meticulous execution. Set in the serene yet eerie hills of Malakkappara, the film follows Circle Inspector Vivek Gopinath (Asif Ali), a flawed yet determined police officer tasked with unraveling a suicide case that spirals into a decades-old mystery. The narrative cleverly weaves an alternate history around the production of the 1985 Malayalam classic Kathodu Kathoram, blending nostalgia with suspense to create a cinephile’s delight.
The film’s success can be attributed to its strong screenplay by John Manthrickal and Ramu Sunil, Jofin T. Chacko’s deft direction, and a powerhouse ensemble cast that includes Manoj K. Jayan, Siddique, Jagadish, Saikumar, Harisree Ashokan, and a notable cameo by Mammootty. Critics praised its ability to balance a thrilling investigation with subtle nods to Malayalam cinema’s golden era, making it a standout hit in a year that saw a decline in theatrical footfalls for the industry.
Rekhachithram: Box Office Triumph
Rekhachithram didn’t just win hearts—it dominated the box office. Produced on a modest budget of ₹6-9 crore (including prints and publicity), the film delivered an astounding return on investment, making it the most profitable Malayalam venture of 2025 to date. Its opening day in Kerala alone grossed ₹1.92 crore, marking a career-best start for Asif Ali. By the end of its first four-day weekend, the film had raked in ₹26.5 crore worldwide, with ₹10.69 crore from Kerala, ₹2.21 crore from the rest of India, and $1.57 million (approximately ₹13.6 crore) from overseas markets.
The film’s momentum continued, crossing ₹34.3 crore globally within six days and closing its first week with over ₹37 crore—an unprecedented feat for an Asif Ali starrer. By the end of its theatrical run, Rekhachithram amassed a staggering ₹57.3-58 crore worldwide, according to various industry trackers. This included ₹26.85 crore from Kerala, ₹5 crore from the rest of India, and ₹25.45 crore ($2.96 million) from overseas markets. With a profit margin exceeding 300%, the film emerged as a “super hit,” outpacing other 2025 releases and cementing Asif Ali’s status as a bankable star following his earlier success with Kishkindha Kaandam.
Rekhachithram OTT Release Date and Platform
After a triumphant theatrical run spanning over a month, Rekhachithram made its much-anticipated digital debut on March 7, 2025. The streaming rights were acquired by SonyLIV, a platform that has increasingly become a hub for premium Malayalam content. The OTT release was announced with fanfare by Asif Ali himself, who took to social media to share the update: “A forgotten crime. A buried truth. Time to uncover it all. Rekhachithram streaming from 7th March on SonyLIV.”
Available in five languages—Malayalam, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada—the film’s digital premiere ensures it reaches a diverse audience beyond its theatrical stronghold. This multilingual release reflects SonyLIV’s strategy to capitalize on the film’s universal appeal and its proven box office draw.
How to Watch Rekhachithram
For those eager to experience this gripping thriller from the comfort of home, watching Rekhachithram is straightforward:
- Subscribe to SonyLIV: Ensure you have an active subscription to SonyLIV. The platform offers various plans, including monthly and annual options, catering to different budgets.
- Search for the Film: Log in to the SonyLIV app or website, and use the search bar to find Rekhachithram. It should be prominently featured given its popularity.
- Select Your Language: Choose from the available language options—Malayalam (original), Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, or Kannada—based on your preference.
- Stream and Enjoy: Hit play and immerse yourself in the suspenseful world of Vivek Gopinath as he unravels a mystery that spans decades.
SonyLIV’s user-friendly interface and high-quality streaming make it an ideal platform to enjoy the film’s crisp cinematography by Appu Prabhakar and its evocative score by Mujeeb Majeed.
A Legacy Worth Watching
Rekhachithram is more than just a commercial success—it’s a cinematic achievement that showcases the Malayalam industry’s knack for blending creativity with profitability. Its journey from a modest-budget thriller to a ₹58 crore blockbuster, followed by a high-profile OTT release, underscores its universal appeal and enduring impact. Whether you’re a fan of crime thrillers, a lover of Malayalam cinema, or simply someone looking for a well-crafted story, Rekhachithram is a must-watch.
As it streams on SonyLIV, the film invites new viewers to uncover its buried truths and forgotten crimes, proving once again that great storytelling knows no boundaries—be it on the big screen or the small one.
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Excited to watch.