Janaki Vs State Of Kerala Movie Review: Introduction
In recent years, courtroom dramas have become increasingly popular in Indian cinema. While audiences once showed little interest in such stories, the way filmmakers now present these narratives has changed perceptions. In this backdrop, the Malayalam film Janaki Vs State Of Kerala gained attention upon its release in July. After premiering in theaters, the film started streaming on ZEE5 on August 15, 2025, and became available in Telugu from August 22, 2025.
Janaki Vs State Of Kerala Movie Review: Plot Overview
The story follows Janaki Vidyadharan (Anupama Parameswaran), a young woman who becomes a victim of sexual assault. When her father tries to approach the police regarding the matter, he tragically loses his life during an altercation. Accompanied by her friend Naveen, Janaki reaches the police station, only to collapse upon hearing of her father’s death. It is then revealed to the police that she was raped.
Janaki, who works at a software company in Bengaluru, visits her native Kerala during a festival along with her friends. After dropping them off at a bus stop, she realizes she left her phone at a bakery they had stopped at earlier. When she goes back to retrieve it late in the evening, she is assaulted by unknown men. Later, in court, Janaki narrates this ordeal.
David (Suresh Gopi), a reputed lawyer, represents the bakery owners and cleverly defends them using the available evidence. Witnessing Janaki’s pain, however, David begins to doubt his stance. What decision he takes next and how it changes the course of events forms the core of the story.

Janaki Vs State Of Kerala Movie Review: Analysis
Courtroom dramas usually thrive on arguments, counterarguments, evidence gathering, and unpredictable twists. These elements keep viewers engaged, wondering which way the case might turn. Unfortunately, Janaki Vs State Of Kerala fails to fully deliver that level of suspense and intrigue.
The director attempts to present the story from three different angles to create suspense, but the execution feels inconsistent and diluted. The narrative often drifts, leaving audiences disappointed rather than engaged. Linking the plot to the Father Francis case in the beginning only adds confusion without contributing meaningfully to the story.
Janaki Vs State Of Kerala Movie Review: Performances and Technical Aspects
Anupama Parameswaran, known for her strong screen presence, delivers a credible performance as Janaki. Suresh Gopi as David brings depth but is let down by weak courtroom sequences. Supporting actors, including Divya Pillai and Askar Ali, play their roles adequately but without much impact.
On the technical side, the cinematography, background score by Ghibran, and editing remain average, lacking the sharpness required for a gripping courtroom drama. The cross-examination scenes, which are expected to be powerful, lack intensity and fail to leave a mark.
Janaki Vs State Of Kerala Movie Review: Verdict
Janaki Vs State Of Kerala takes up a sensitive subject and narrates it with seriousness but fails to deliver the emotional impact or thrilling twists expected from a courtroom drama. Despite sincere performances, the film ends up being a flat experience with little to connect the audience emotionally.
Movie Details
- Movie Name: Janaki Vs State Of Kerala
- Release Date: August 22, 2025 (Telugu, ZEE5)
- Cast: Anupama Parameswaran, Suresh Gopi, Divya Pillai, Askar Ali
- Director: Pravin Narayanan
- Music: Ghibran
- Banner: Cosmos Entertainments
Janaki Vs State Of Kerala Movie Review: FAQs
Q1: What is Janaki Vs State Of Kerala about?
The movie revolves around Janaki, a rape survivor seeking justice, and how her case unfolds in court with unexpected legal battles.
Q2: Where can I watch Janaki Vs State Of Kerala?
The movie is available for streaming on ZEE5, in both Malayalam and Telugu versions.
Q3: Who are the lead actors in Janaki Vs State Of Kerala?
The film stars Anupama Parameswaran as Janaki and Suresh Gopi as advocate David, with Divya Pillai and Askar Ali in key roles.
Q4: Is Janaki Vs State Of Kerala worth watching?
The movie handles a sensitive issue with seriousness, but lacks the intensity and emotional connection expected from a courtroom drama.
Q5: Who directed Janaki Vs State Of Kerala?
The film is directed by Pravin Narayanan under Cosmos Entertainments banner.
Disclaimer
This review of Janaki Vs State Of Kerala is based on critical analysis of the film’s storyline, performances, and technical aspects. It reflects the cinematic value and audience experience without personal bias.
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