Kandan
| Theatrical release poster | |
| Directed by | Jibin Antony |
|---|---|
| Produced by | Fourth Wall Pictures |
| Story by | |
| Starring | Byju Perumbavoor, Jyothish Jose, Ananthapadmanabhan |
| Music by | Jaison John |
| Cinematography | Jibin Antony, Alan Jacob |
| Edited by | Jibin Antony |
| Production company | Fourth Wall Pictures |
| Distributed by | RFT Films (United Kingdom); Himukri – Jayageetham (Kerala) |
| Release date | July 31, 2026 |
| Running time | 115 minutes |
| Country | India |
| Language | Malayalam |
| Budget | |
| Box office | approx. US$ 4,535 |
Kandan is an Indian Malayalam crime mystery thriller movie directed by debutant filmmaker Jibin Antony. The film was shot entirely in the United Kingdom, and it also has a bunch of UK-based Malayali newcomers, appearing here and there. In the lead roles you get Byju Perumbavoor, Jyothish Jose and Ananthapadmanabhan. And Jibin Antony handled much more than directing too, serving as the writer, editor, lyricist and cinematographer, while Alan Jacob worked alongside as co-cinematographer.
It’s produced by Fourth Wall Pictures, with Saji P. Kurian, Aju John and Sabu Thomas acting as co-producers. The music was composed by Jaison John, and the songs were performed by Suraj Santhosh, Sithara Krishnakumar and Anju Joseph. The film was released in theatres on 31 July 2026.
Plot
Three Malayali women mysteriously disappear in the United Kingdom. A lawyer and vlogger begins investigating their disappearance and attempts to uncover the truth behind the incidents. As the investigation continues, people who assist him start disappearing under strange circumstances. His search eventually leads him to a disturbing world involving ritualistic crimes and practices resembling astral projection. The investigation takes an unexpected turn when he realizes that the truth may be much closer to him than he expected.
Cast
Byju Perumbavoor Jyothish Jose Ananthapadmanabhan Santhosh Varghese Rejeena Davidson Sandra Girish G Nath Saji P Kurian Niya Viju Ann Mathew Sunil Uthaman Guru as Selvan Vineetha Aby Ashley Varocky Sandeep Peter May Saleh Uthaman Guru as Selvam
Production
Kandan is presented as the directorial debut of Jibin Antony, who also wrote the screenplay and handled the editing, lyrics and cinematography. Alan Jacob served as the co- Cinematographer. The film was shot entirely in the United Kingdom , and it features several UK-based Malayali newcomers, so the project has a distinct bond with the Malayali community in Britain. The movie was produced by Fourth Wall Pictures, with Saji P. Kurian, Aju John and Sabu Thomas serve as co-producers. On the production side, Philip K. J. worked as the line producer ,and Benny Asamsa is listed as the creative head. San Antony George served as the creative director, while Basil Kuttampuzha worked as the production controller. Jerin Thottappilly Johny handled the art direction, and Suresh S. R. took care of the digital intermediate. Public relations were managed by M. K. Shejin. Overall, the production feels notable because it brings together UK-based Malayali talent and delivers a Malayalam thriller filmed completely within the United Kingdom, aiming at audiences in both the UK and Kerala.
Soundtrack
The music for the film was put together by Jaison John. The soundtrack includes songs sung by playback singers Suraj Santhosh, Sithara Krishnakumar and Anju Joseph. The song “Roopavathi”, sung by Sithara Krishnakumar, got a lot of attention on social media after it came out via the Lahari Music YouTube channel. Many listeners praised Sithara’s vocals, and also Jaison John’s music.
Release
Kandan hit theatres in India on 31 July 2026. In the United Kingdom, it was distributed by RFT Films, whereas Himukri – Jayageetham handled distribution in Kerala. The film stands out because it was produced by UK Malayalis and it was released for audiences in both Kerala, and the United Kingdom.
Distribution
Kandan was distributed in the United Kingdom by RFT Films, while Himukri – Jayageetham handled its distribution in Kerala. The film was released in theatres on 31 July 2026 for audiences in both the United Kingdom and Kerala.
Reception
The song "Roopavathi" got a positive vibe from music listeners on social media. People especially praised Sithara Krishnakumar’s vocals and also the way Jaison John composed the track. Because of that, the song buzz spilled over and brought extra curiosity about the film’s soundtrack, even before the film hit theaters.
Box office
Kandan has a reported worldwide gross of US$4,535. This is the reported total worldwide collection for the film.