Sarkeet Movie Review: A Gentle Tale of Parenting, ADHD, and Redemption Led by Asif Ali’s Stirring Performance

Introduction

Thamar KV’s sophomore film Sarkeet delivers a soulful blend of heart and reality, exploring the themes of parenting, mental health, and human connection. Led by a quietly impactful performance by Asif Ali, this Malayalam film offers viewers a heartwarming, if slightly flawed, cinematic outing set against the familiar backdrop of Gulf life.

Plot Summary: A Story Rooted in Real-Life Struggles

Sarkeet follows Ameer (Asif Ali), a young man trying his luck for the second time in the Gulf, where life is far from easy. Jobless and desperate, Ameer crosses paths with a struggling middle-class family—Balu (Deepak Parambol), Stephy (Divya Prabha), and their hyperactive son Jefron aka Jeppu (Orhan), who is diagnosed with ADHD.

As the story unfolds, Ameer forms an unexpected bond with Jeppu, understanding the child in a way that his own parents seem unable to. Through moments of warmth, patience, and quiet guidance, Ameer steps into the role of a father figure—an influence hinted to be missing from his own past.

Performance Review: Asif Ali Shines Once Again

Asif Ali delivers yet another emotionally resonant performance, cementing his place as one of Malayalam cinema’s most dependable actors when it comes to conveying inner vulnerability. His scenes with the young Orhan are the film’s heart and soul, bringing out the innocence, frustration, and eventual connection between two lost souls.

Orhan, as Jeppu, plays his role convincingly—his irksome behavior is realistic for a child battling ADHD. The chemistry between Asif and Orhan feels natural and unforced, elevating even the most predictable scenes.

Supporting cast members Deepak Parambol and Divya Prabha bring authenticity to their roles as struggling parents, although their screen time is limited and their characters underdeveloped.

Direction & Writing: A Touching Yet Slightly Uneven Journey

Director Thamar KV deserves credit for his restrained portrayal of both parenting challenges and Gulf life. While films about expatriate struggles often dip into melodrama, Sarkeet stays grounded. The scenes depicting exploitative job interviews and shady “work trials” for Gulf job seekers resonate with truth.

However, the screenplay starts to meander in the latter half. Certain scenes—like shadow play and stargazing—veer into overly poetic territory, breaking the naturalistic tone. These moments feel more like staged moral lessons than genuine interactions.

Themes Explored: Parenting, ADHD, and Emotional Connection

One of the film’s strengths is its thoughtful take on parenting a child with ADHD. Sarkeet doesn’t simplify the disorder or wrap it up with easy solutions. Instead, it shows how misunderstandings, lack of awareness, and emotional distance can complicate family life.

The film also quietly highlights the importance of male role models in a child’s life, as Ameer instinctively fills this gap for Jeppu—perhaps trying to heal his own emotional wounds in the process.

Technical Aspects: Simple and Realistic

Visually, Sarkeet keeps things modest. The cinematography reflects everyday Gulf life rather than glossy tourist brochures. The editing maintains a steady, gentle pace, though some tighter cuts could have helped the lagging second half.

Music and background score are understated, allowing emotions and performances to take center stage.

What Works and What Doesn’t?

Final Verdict: Is Sarkeet Worth Watching?

Rating: 3/5 ⭐⭐⭐☆☆

Sarkeet is a quiet, touching film that succeeds in making viewers reflect on parenting, childhood needs, and the small human connections that shape lives. While the story could have benefited from sharper writing in its second half, the honest performances—especially from Asif Ali—keep the film emotionally engaging.

For those open to watching family dramas with a thoughtful social angle, Sarkeet offers a worthwhile experience.