El-Balad presents a review of the recently released horror thriller, Diés Iraé, directed by Rahul Sadasivan, featuring Pranav Mohanlal in the lead role. The film debuted on October 31, 2025, and has garnered a mixed reception, earning a rating of 2.25 out of 5. With a runtime of 1 hour and 55 minutes, it is produced by Chakravarthy Ramachandra and S. Sashikanth under Night Shift Studios and YNOT Studios.
Film Overview
Diés Iraé, meaning “The Day of Wrath,” marks a shift for Pranav Mohanlal, previously known for romantic and comedy roles in Hridayam and Varshangalkku Shesham. This film challenges him to portray a more serious character, an architect named Rohan.
Plot Synopsis
In Diés Iraé, Rohan lives a carefree life until a shocking revelation disrupts his world. During a party, he learns about the suicide of Kani, a classmate played by Sushmitha Bhat. This tragedy sets off a chain of events, including the erratic behavior of Kani’s brother, Kiran, portrayed by Arun Ajikumar. The story evolves as Rohan seeks the reasons behind Kani’s death and uncovers connections that link him to supernatural occurrences.
Character Performances
The film features a sparse cast, with Pranav Mohanlal taking center stage. His portrayal of a young man grappling with paranormal elements has been positively received. Noteworthy performances also include:
- Jaya Kurup as Elsamma, whose role adds emotional depth.
- Gibin Gopinath, contributing significantly with a solid performance.
- Arun Ajikumar, who stands out in critical sequences, particularly during confrontations at Rohan’s home.
Technical Aspects
The technical elements have drawn attention, notably Christo Xavier’s captivating background score, which enhances the film’s eerie atmosphere without overwhelming the dialogues. Shehnad Jalal’s cinematography effectively supports the film’s mood, capturing haunting visuals and scenes near a construction site that resonate well with the audience.
Critique of Pacing and Storytelling
Despite its strengths, Diés Iraé suffers from pacing issues. The narrative flows slowly, particularly in the first half, leading to repetitive sequences. The climax fails to deliver thrills, leaving viewers with predictable outcomes and numerous unanswered questions. Critics have noted that the film lacks genuine horror moments, which diminishes its impact as a horror thriller.
Conclusion
In summary, Diés Iraé showcases commendable performances and effective sound design but ultimately falls short of delivering a gripping horror experience. The film’s conclusion leaves viewers longing for more resolution, leading to disappointment rather than satisfaction. As a result, Diés Iraé, while ambitious, does not fulfill its potential in the horror genre, making it an underwhelming addition to the cinematic landscape.
