Mareechika Movie Review

Release Date: May 29, 2026

Cast: Viraj Ashwin, Regina Cassandra, Anupama Parameswaran and Others

Director: Satish Kasetty

Producers: Rajiv Chilaka, Meghhaa Chilaka

Music Director: Ilaiyaraaja

Cinematographer: Arvind Kannabiran

Editor: Junaid Siddiqui

Story:

Mareechika revolves around Venkatalaxmi (Anupama Parameswaran), a college student who secretly loves Sanjay alias Sanju (Viraj Ashwin), the self-made son of a corporator who runs a coffee shop. Despite her feelings, she never expresses her love. During this period, she befriends an NRI woman named Mareechika (Regina Cassandra). Unexpectedly, Mareechika and Sanju grow close and eventually get married.

The story takes a shocking turn when Mareechika kills Sanju. Disturbed by the incident, Venkatalaxmi approaches the police seeking answers. Who exactly is Mareechika? Why did she kill Sanju? What secrets lie behind the murder? The answers to these questions form the core of this psychological mystery thriller.

Plus Points:

The film deserves appreciation for attempting a different and unconventional concept instead of following routine commercial formulas. The psychological and mystery-driven storyline has an intriguing foundation that keeps viewers curious. The interval sequence and climax portions are among the strongest aspects of the film.

The final act involving Ajay Ghosh, Regina Cassandra, and Anupama Parameswaran is engaging and provides some entertaining moments. Regina delivers a convincing performance as an NRI woman, while Anupama shines in an innocent and emotionally driven role. Viraj Ashwin looks stylish and performs his character effectively. The blend of romance, suspense, and psychological elements adds some freshness to the narrative.

Minus Points:

The biggest drawback of Mareechika is its slow and ineffective narration. Despite having an interesting concept, the screenplay fails to maintain engagement for long stretches. The first half moves at a sluggish pace and tests the audience’s patience. Several scenes feel stretched and do not contribute significantly to the overall impact.

Although the second half improves towards the climax, the film creates unnecessary confusion while revealing key twists. The crime investigation angle is poorly executed, with the police inquiry lacking depth and credibility. This weakens the suspense and reduces the effectiveness of the central mystery. As a result, the film struggles to fully capitalize on its promising premise.

Technical Department:

Ilaiyaraaja’s music is decent, and the background score works well during a few crucial scenes. Arvind Kannabiran’s cinematography is satisfactory and complements the film’s mood. The production values are adequate. However, Junaid Siddiqui’s editing could have been sharper, especially in the first half.

Director Satish Kasetty deserves credit for choosing an unusual psychological thriller concept. However, the execution does not match the potential of the story. While the core idea is compelling, the screenplay lacks the intensity and engagement required to make the film consistently gripping.

Verdict:

Mareechika is a psychological thriller with an interesting premise and a few engaging moments. However, slow narration, a weak investigation track, and inconsistent storytelling prevent it from delivering the impact it promises. Despite commendable performances from Regina Cassandra, Anupama Parameswaran, and Viraj Ashwin, the film ultimately turns out to be a disappointing watch.