Rekhachithram

“Rekhachithram” is a Malayalam mystery crime historical film by Jofin T. Chacho with Asif Ali, Anaswara Rajan, and Manoj K. Jayan in the lead roles. Working against a vibrant and livid Indian backdrop, the story tracks Vivek Gopinath, a disgraced cop recently suspended due to a gambling scandal, as he returns to his hometown and reopens a 40-year-old cold murder case, now of a faceless victim, to find the redemption he desires.

The film opens with a scene from the past where four men carry a dead body at night, witnessed by two young boys. The story then shifts to the present, focusing on Rajendran, a wealthy businessman who confesses his dark past in a live broadcast before taking his own life near Malakkappara. Vivek Gopinath, suspended for gambling, is transferred there to investigate. During the probe, Vivek’s team finds a female skeleton and an anklet near the site of Rajendran’s suicide. Searching for answers, Vivek learns about Rekha, a junior artist who disappeared in 1985. With help, he creates her sketch and soon realizes that powerful people, including Vincent, want to hide the truth. Despite threats and attempts to stop him, Vivek continues his investigation, uncovering more about Rekha’s tragic fate.

As Vivek digs deeper, he meets a nun who reveals Rekha had stayed at a convent before vanishing with stolen cash. He also discovers that Vincent and his accomplice murdered Rekha and buried her. After confronting Vincent in the hospital, the truth unfolds, causing turmoil in Vincent’s family. Rekha’s family is finally located, confirming the anklet’s identity. Vincent is arrested, and Rekha’s memory is honoured as she is laid to rest. The film closes with a hopeful flashback showing Rekha embracing her dreams.

“Rekhachithram” is a hard-boiled yet poignant whodunit incisively combining the past, present, and the art of murder investigation. Leading the enduringly watchable cast is Asif Ali, whose sensitive portrayal of the beleaguered officer makes him worth rooting for, and the film’s glacial, contemplative pace keeps things taut as a thriller. Even if some segments drag, the story’s deep emotional core and satisfying resolution more than make up for its missteps, making the story well worth watching.