Jithin doesn’t rely on dramatic highs and lows but rather presents the narrative in a free-flowing manner, reminiscent of a long walk down memory lane. At a brisk 95 minutes, Pallotty 90s Kids never feels drawn out, balancing simplicity with impact in a way that keeps viewers absorbed, especially those who, like Unni and Kannan, were raised in small towns before technology became the dominant force in children’s lives.
Though some might find the film’s ending overly sentimental and predictable, it complements the journey that precedes it. Davinchi is exceptional as Kannan, deftly balancing vulnerability and resilience, which gives the character emotional depth and believability. His seamless portrayal of Kannan’s confidence and occasional insecurities allows viewers to root for him, as if he were an old friend.
As Unni, Neeraj also shines, with an endearing innocence and honesty that is refreshing to see in child actors. The child artist who plays Subhi—a cheeky kid with a tendency to mimic adult expressions—adds much-needed humour, representing the curious, sometimes naive voice of children who parrot what they hear without fully understanding it.
Manikandan Ayyappa’s background score complements the narrative’s gentle pace, while Sharon Sreenivas’ cinematography captures Kulangara’s lush beauty with panache. The soundtrack and visuals work together to amplify the emotions and innocence within each scene, making the village setting both a physical and emotional landscape for the characters.
For millennials, Pallotty 90s Kids will be more than a film—it’s a nostalgic journey back to a time when rainy days meant splashing in puddles and sailing paper boats, not spending hours indoors with tablets or video games. It reminds us of a childhood shaped by the tangible world rather than screens, where friendships were life’s greatest treasure. Jithin’s debut lovingly captures the timeless moments that defined our youth, without romanticising the past or judging the present. This heartwarming tribute leaves us longing for simpler days, when life was easy, friendships precious, and each day an adventure waiting to unfold.
Film: Pallotty 90s Kids
Director: Jithin Raj
Cast: Davinchi Santhosh, Neeraj Krishna, Arjun Ashokan, Balu Varghese, Saiju Kurup, Sudhi Koppa
Rating: 3.5/5
