Critical reception
Kalamkaval received positive reviews from critics.
S. R. Praveen of The Hindu wrote, "Apart from fine performances from Mammootty and Vinayakan, mind games and character dynamics propel Jithin K Jose’s slow-burn thriller". [31] Janani K. of India Today rated 3/5 and wrote, "Kalamkaval offers enough twists, strong performances, and atmospheric filmmaking to warrant a watch, even if the runtime tests patience occasionally." [32] Anjana George of The Times of India rated 3/5 and wrote, "Kalamkaval is a film elevated by its lead actors and its atmospheric world, even if the storytelling occasionally falters. It remains a watch for Mammootty's enigmatic presence and the unsettling psychological duel at its core. [33] Anandu Suresh of The Indian Express rated 2./5 and wrote, "Mammootty once again shows he’s the biggest threat to stardom; but the crime thriller fails him". [34]
Latha Srinivasan of NDTV rated 3.5/5 and wrote, "Technically, the film is sound with masterly editing, invigorating background and songs, and cinematography. There are numerous artistes who come in various roles but these are not fully explored. All in all, it is Mammootty's highly 'devilish' act against Vinayakan's underplayed cop role that makes this a compelling watch. [35] Princy Alexander of Onmanorama wrote, " Kalamkaval may not reconstruct the full complexity of a true-crime tale. But as a cinematic experience, it delivers a dark, measured, and unnerving output." [36] Sajin Shrijith of The Week rated 4.5/5 and wrote, "An unforgettable Mammootty and a sturdy Vinayakan in a haunting, surprise-laden thriller". [37]
Gautham S. of Pinkvilla rated 3.5/5 and highlighted Mammootty's portrayal but found the narrative predictable. [38] Rohit Panikker of Filmfare rated 3.5/5 and described it as a slow-burning crime mystery with emphasis on mood and silence. [39] Vishal Menon of The Hollywood Reporter India stated that Mammootty appeared "like never before" in a genre-driven thriller, praising the film’s atmosphere and its screenwriting. [40]
Jay in Medium noted that Kalamkaval succeeds by allowing Mammootty to lead viewers beyond his star aura and make them hate his character to the core, a feat the critic described as rare even for major actors. The review also praised Jithin K Jose for reshaping the Cyanide Mohan template without glorifying the killer, and highlighted Vinayakan’s composed, methodical performance as a strong counterforce. Despite criticism of an "avoidable" tail-end scene, the film was acclaimed for its tense mood, technical finesse, and the sharply written duel between the two leads. [41]
