In This Cold Morning
Ee Thanutha Veluppan Kalathu - ETVK (Malayalam, 1990, In This Cold Morning) - is a cult mystery thriller film penned by Padmarajan and directed by Joshi.
Mammotty, Superintendent of Police, is asked to investigate a series of cruel killings where the murderer pushes coconut coir into the mouth of victims after killing. All these killings are pointing to mentally challenged Suresh Gopi, an illegal son born to Lakshmi (wedded to Devan).
Mammotty also in touch with Nedumudi Venu, a spiritual guru, who predicts the killer is on the run and could sense him wandering around the town.
Mammotty nabs Suresh Gopi but could not produce him to the court due to his ill mental health; on putting him in narco synthesis with the physician (Captain) Raj, he finds a truth that is shocking.
It is also interesting to note the case is discussed between Mammotty and his wife Sumalatha - a psychiatrist - at crucial times; and to some extent, Sumalatha guides him with suggestions when he finds himself cornered.
ETVK - leave Mammotty - has almost all yesteryear actors. Lakshmi, Nedumudi Venu, Murali, M.G. Soman, Suresh Gopi, Sumalatha, Captain Raj, Siddique (one scene), Jagati Sreekumar, Sukumari, Devan, Idhayam Gingelly Oil Chithra and, Lalu Alex to name a few(?!!).
Considering the year (three decades before) it is made, ETVK shall be commended for keeping you guessing till the climax, the watertight screenplay, suspense being maintained throughout and a different unbelievable knot.
A must watch for the mystery-loving movie buffs.
Available in Hotstar.