Unmasking the Shadows: "Identity" (2025) on ZEE5 and the Labyrinth of Truth

The landscape of Indian thrillers has been significantly enriched by “Identity” (2025), a Malayalam-language action thriller directed by the duo Akhil Paul and Anas Khan, and now streaming on ZEE5. This film, starring Tovino Thomas and Trisha Krishnan, delves into a complex web of crime, memory, and deception, pushing the boundaries of traditional storytelling while offering a visually stunning and action-packed cinematic experience. Far from being a mere whodunit, “Identity” challenges viewers to question perceptions and unearth the deeper layers beneath a seemingly straightforward investigation.

A Twisted Premise: Memory and the Elusive Killer

At its core, “Identity” hinges on a compelling premise: a brutal crime for which the sole eyewitness, Alisha (Trisha Krishnan), suffers from prosopagnosia, or face blindness. This crucial detail immediately elevates the narrative beyond a conventional police procedural, introducing a unique challenge to the investigation. The police, led by CI Allen Jacob (Vinay Rai), must rely on Alisha’s detailed, yet fragmented, recollections to piece together the killer’s face with the help of a skilled sketch artist, Haran Shankar (Tovino Thomas). This initial setup creates a palpable sense of tension and intrigue, drawing the audience into the protagonist’s struggle to recall a face that her mind cannot fully recognize. The film masterfully exploits this inherent difficulty, building suspense around the reliability of memory and the elusive nature of truth.

Unraveling a Multi-Layered Conspiracy

What begins as a focused murder mystery soon expands into a sprawling conspiracy, a testament to the directors’ ambition. As Haran and Alisha delve deeper, they uncover a sinister nexus of blackmail, past grievances, and a corrupt witness protection scheme. The narrative takes unexpected turns, introducing new characters and subplots that initially add layers of complexity but occasionally risk overwhelming the audience. The film’s strength lies in its ability to interweave these various threads, revealing how seemingly isolated incidents are connected by a dark undercurrent of betrayal and vengeance. The exploration of a blackmailer’s dark past and the subsequent motivations of the killer, coupled with the involvement of an undercover NSG commando, adds a high-stakes, action-packed dimension to the psychological thriller.

Technical Prowess and Performance Depth

“Identity” shines in its technical execution, particularly in its action sequences and cinematography. The film features high-octane car chases and a climactic mid-air showdown that are meticulously choreographed and visually impressive, a refreshing spectacle for Malayalam cinema. Akhil George’s cinematography expertly captures the grim realities of the investigation and the sleekness of the action. Jakes Bejoy’s background score effectively amplifies the tension and emotional beats, even if at times it can feel a tad overbearing. The performances from the lead cast are commendable. Tovino Thomas delivers a nuanced portrayal, transitioning seamlessly from a mild-mannered sketch artist to a formidable action figure. Trisha Krishnan, in her return to Malayalam cinema, brings a quiet intensity to her role, effectively conveying the frustration and vulnerability of her character. Vinay Rai as the police officer is also a significant contributor to the film’s twists and turns.

The Verdict: Ambition and Its Pitfalls

“Identity” is an ambitious film that aims to push the boundaries of the thriller genre in Malayalam cinema. While it largely succeeds in delivering a gripping and action-packed experience with strong performances and impressive technical aspects, it’s not without its flaws. Some critics have pointed to a convoluted second half, where the intricate plot sometimes becomes overly complex, leading to moments of exposition that feel forced. The film’s desire to be constantly surprising with twists occasionally sacrifices narrative fluidity. However, despite these minor drawbacks, “Identity” remains a compelling watch, particularly for fans of crime thrillers who appreciate a film that dares to be technically daring and intellectually engaging. Its availability on ZEE5 ensures that a wider audience can now delve into this labyrinthine tale of crime, memory, and the elusive nature of truth.