The Malayalam film Abhilasham, a poignant romantic drama directed by Shamzu Zayba, makes its highly anticipated OTT debut on Amazon Prime Video and ManoramaMAX today, May 23, 2025, captivating audiences with its emotional depth and stellar performances. Starring Saiju Kurup, Tanvi Ram, Arjun Ashokan, and Shine Tom Chacko, the film has sparked buzz for its touching narrative and is a highlight among June’s Malayalam OTT releases, as noted by OTTplay. Nuzpost explores Abhilasham’s journey to streaming, its compelling story, and why it’s a must-watch in a packed month of Malayalam cinema.
A Romantic Tale That Tugs at Heartstrings
Abhilasham follows the story of Abhilash (Saiju Kurup), a man navigating the complexities of love, loss, and rediscovery. Directed by Shamzu Zayba, known for blending emotional narratives with relatable characters, the film weaves a tale of forgotten feelings rekindled through unexpected encounters. Tanvi Ram plays the female lead, bringing nuance to a role that balances vulnerability and strength, while Arjun Ashokan and Shine Tom Chacko add depth with their supporting performances. The film’s evocative storytelling and strong ensemble cast have made it a standout, with OTTplay calling it a “stirring romance that resonates with audiences.”
Shot in Kerala’s lush landscapes, Abhilasham features cinematography by Vishnu Prabhakar that captures the region’s beauty, enhancing the film’s emotional tone. The soundtrack, composed by Bijibal, has been praised for its soulful melodies, with the song “Njan Kanda Swapnam” already a fan favorite. Released in theaters on Valentine’s Day 2025, the film earned positive reviews for its heartfelt narrative, setting high expectations for its OTT premiere on Amazon Prime Video and ManoramaMAX, with Simply South streaming for overseas audiences.
A Stellar Start to June’s Malayalam OTT Lineup
Abhilasham’s debut coincides with a vibrant month for Malayalam cinema on OTT platforms, as outlined by OTTplay. The film joins heavyweights like Mohanlal’s Thudarum, a crime thriller directed by Tharun Moorthy, set for a JioHotstar release after crossing Rs 220 crore globally in theaters. Thudarum, featuring Mohanlal as cab driver Shanmugham seeking revenge, has delayed its OTT debut due to its theatrical success, per The Times of India. Asif Ali’s Sarkeet and Dileep’s Prince and Family are also slated for June, with Sarkeet expected on Netflix and Prince and Family on Sony LIV, adding to the diverse offerings.
Other notable June releases include Maranamass, a dark comedy starring Basil Joseph, now streaming on Sony LIV, and Ouseppinte Osiyathu, a family drama with Vijayaraghavan, available on ManoramaMAX. Abhilasham stands out for its romantic focus, offering a contrast to the thrillers and comedies dominating the lineup. Its early streaming premiere, just three months after its theatrical run, reflects the growing trend of Malayalam films capitalizing on OTT platforms to reach global audiences.
Critical Acclaim and Audience Buzz
Critics have lauded Abhilasham for its authentic portrayal of relationships and Zayba’s sensitive direction. The Times of India called it “a beautifully crafted story that stirs emotions,” praising Kurup’s understated performance and Ram’s chemistry with the cast. The film’s exploration of love’s complexities, set against Kerala’s vibrant backdrop, has resonated with audiences, with early theater reviews noting its ability to “rekindle forgotten feelings,” per OTTplay. The second half, packed with emotional twists, has been highlighted as a tearjerker, making it a perfect binge for romance fans.
The film’s OTT release has been strategically timed to capitalize on its theatrical momentum, with Amazon Prime Video and ManoramaMAX promoting it heavily. Simply South’s overseas streaming ensures the diaspora can join the buzz, broadening its reach. The film’s U/A certification and 2-hour-10-minute runtime make it an accessible watch for families and romantics alike.
Challenges and Triumphs
While Abhilasham has won hearts, its theatrical run faced stiff competition from blockbusters like Thudarum and Sarkeet, which dominated Kerala’s box office. However, its focused narrative and strong word-of-mouth helped it carve a niche, with collections crossing Rs 15 crore, per The Hindu. The OTT release is expected to boost its visibility, especially among viewers who missed its theater run. The film’s success underscores Malayalam cinema’s growing global appeal, with platforms like Amazon Prime Video and ManoramaMAX investing heavily in regional content.
Director Shamzu Zayba, in a Hindustan Times interview, described Abhilasham as “a love letter to second chances,” emphasizing its universal themes. The film’s release alongside Thudarum and Sarkeet highlights Malayalam cinema’s diversity, from gritty thrillers to heartfelt dramas, cementing its reputation for quality storytelling.
Why Abhilasham Is a Must-Watch
As June 2025 unfolds, Abhilasham stands as a gem in Malayalam cinema’s OTT lineup, offering a refreshing take on romance amidst a sea of action and comedy. Its emotional depth, bolstered by Saiju Kurup’s nuanced performance and Tanvi Ram’s compelling debut, makes it a standout. With stunning visuals, a soulful soundtrack, and a runtime that doesn’t overstay its welcome, Abhilasham is poised to capture hearts on Amazon Prime Video and ManoramaMAX.
As Malayalam films like Thudarum and Sarkeet continue to dominate, Abhilasham offers a quieter, more introspective experience, perfect for viewers seeking emotional resonance. Whether you’re in Kerala or streaming overseas via Simply South, this romantic drama is a must-add to your watchlist.
Nuzpost will track Abhilasham’s OTT performance and updates on June’s Malayalam releases.
