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A new Malayalam film starring a popular actor was launched with high expectations backed by a hefty Rs 30 crore budget and the comeback of a veteran actress. But the results were disappointing: in Kerala alone the film’s theatrical share was only Rs 3.5 crore signaling a major box office flop. Which film is this? That film is Identity featuring Tovino Thomas and Trisha Krishnan in lead roles. The movie’s underperformance was especially stark given that Tovino’s previous release Ajayante Randam Moshanam had crossed Rs 100 crore worldwide. Identity grossed around Rs 16.51 crore globally but failed to recoup even half its investment. Critics cited weak storytelling and emotional disconnect as major flaws though the visuals and technical execution got praise. More about Identity The film had several favourable elements the director duo Akhil Paul and Anas Khan (behind his earlier hit Forensic) were at the helm and Trisha’s return to Malayalam cinema added star appeal along with Vinay Rai. Yet critiques repeatedly pointed out that while the film looked good and had stylish execution it lacked emotional depth and narrative strength. At one point it seemed the film might find its footing but stiff release competition and weak word of mouth pulled it down. The film is currently streaming on Zee5. The surprising cameo Interestingly while Identity flopped Tovino also made a cameo appearance in the blockbuster Lokah: Chapter 1 – Chandra (as the character Micheal aka Chathan) which became one of Malayalam cinema’s biggest hits. That contrast shows just how unpredictable the film industry can be even a superstar’s name and a grand setup are no guarantee of success. Lokah: Chapter 1 – Chandra is a Malayalam fantasy-action film that blends mythological elements with high-end visual storytelling. The film stars Kalyani Priyadarshan and Naslen in key roles with Kalyani portraying a mysterious powerful character central to the plot. Its rich cinematography immersive world-building and myth-inspired narrative made it a standout at the box office and among critics. Story Highlights Identity was made with a Rs 30 crore budget but earned just Rs 3.5 crore share in Kerala. The global gross was around Rs 16.51 crore falling well short of recovering costs. Technical and visual execution were praised but the film was criticized for lacking emotional depth. Tovino made a cameo in Lokah: Chapter 1 – Chandra which achieved blockbuster status. This contrast between Identity and Lokah shows how unpredictable cinema can be. A star budget and aesthetic prowess don’t always translate to audience connection. While Identity stumbled Lokah became a phenomenon and that gap says a lot about storytelling timing and the pulse of moviegoers today.