The Late Kunjappa is a refreshing 2026 Malayalam comedy-drama that brilliantly captures the essence of rural life in North Malabar. Directed by Shijith Kalyadan, the film marks a significant transition for the popular Kannur Kafe digital team into feature-length cinema. It is a satirical take on the complexities of social rituals, human relationships, and the often-absurd reactions a community has toward the concept of death. With its rooted storytelling and natural humor, the movie offers a unique glimpse into the cultural fabric of Kerala.
Directed by: Shijith Kalyadan
Written by: Shijith Kalyadan (Story by Radhakrishnan Thalachangad)
Produced by: Tarun Sudhakaran and Shijith Kalyadan
Starring: Ramakrishnan Pazhassi, Sasidharan Mattannur, Ratheesh Iritty, Leela Koombaala, Bijuttan Mattannur
Cinematography: Tarun Sudhakaran
Edited by: Kannur Kafe Team
Music by: Vinay Divakaran
Choreographer: Local Folk Artists
Release Date: 06 February 2026
Running Time: 124 Minutes
Country: India
Language: Malayalam
Dubbing: Available in Hindi and Tamil
Budget: ₹3 Crore
OTT Platform: manoramaMAX
OTT Release Date: 06 February 2026
About the Movie
The Late Kunjappa is a gripping cinematic experience that blends strong satirical storytelling with powerful, grounded performances. Set in a small village in Kannur, the film revolves around a series of comedic misunderstandings triggered by the "late" status of the titular character, Kunjappa. It explores emotions, relationships, and societal conflicts in a realistic and engaging way. With impressive direction from Shijith Kalyadan and evocative music by Vinay Divakaran, the movie keeps the audience connected by balancing light-hearted humor with deep reflections on life and community legacy.
About the Cast
The film features a talented cast primarily consisting of the beloved actors from the Kannur Kafe digital series, who bring immense depth and realism to their roles. Ramakrishnan Pazhassi and Sasidharan Mattannur deliver impactful performances, embodying the quirks of North Malabar residents with ease. The supporting cast, including Ratheesh Iritty and Leela Koombaala, adds significant strength to the narrative. Each character plays an important role in shaping the story, ensuring that the emotional journey of the film feels authentic and relatable to the audience.
Message of the Movie
The movie delivers a strong message about the value of a person while they are alive versus how they are perceived after death. It highlights the importance of family bonding, friendship, and the unnecessary weight of societal rituals. By using satire, it prompts the audience to think about trust and standing together during difficult times, ultimately celebrating the human spirit and the bonds that tie a close-knit community together.
Should You Watch This Movie?
If you enjoy meaningful stories with emotional depth, strong performances, and a clear social or family-oriented message, The Late Kunjappa is worth watching. The film balances entertainment with thoughtful moments, making it suitable for viewers who prefer content with substance rather than just action or glamour. The screenplay keeps the pace engaging, while the authentic visuals of Kannur enhance the overall experience.
This movie is especially recommended for audiences who like realistic storytelling, relationship-driven narratives, and films that leave a lasting impact. However, viewers looking only for fast-paced commercial entertainment may find some portions slow due to its slice-of-life approach. Overall, it is a good one-time watch that can be enjoyed more when watched with family or close friends.
Family & Friends Warning: This movie is suitable for family and friends. However, parental guidance is advised for younger viewers due to certain emotional scenes regarding death or the mild intensity of village conflicts.