Patriot (2026) Review: Two Malayalam Legends Reunite for Spy Intrigue

This Patriot review starts with the draw that matters most: Mammootty and Mohanlal sharing the screen again after 13 years. Mahesh Narayanan directs this Malayalam-language spy thriller, which mixes action with political paranoia. Critics have been mixed, so the question is whether the star power carries it.

Patriot Review: The Story So Far (No Spoilers)

The Patriot plot begins with a retired officer and a set of covert operatives. They are drawn into a secret surveillance scheme that slowly turns into a national security crisis. The central goal is to dismantle the network before it can silence opposition.

Mammootty plays Dr. Daniel James, and Mohanlal plays Col. Rahim Naik. Narayanan also wrote the script, so the film carries a single, consistent voice. It is a spy thriller at heart, with drama running underneath the action.

I'll keep the details vague on purpose. The setup is the only part worth discussing before you see it.

What Works in Patriot

The biggest strength is the idea. Surveillance and the silencing of dissent make a timely subject, and the film treats them as a real threat rather than a gimmick. One review praises its strong plot and compelling ideas, and that matches the film's ambition.

The presentation also helps. Reviewers have singled out stunning visuals and impeccable background music. Together they give the thriller a polished, serious tone.

A few highlights stand out:

• A premise that feels relevant rather than recycled.

• Strong visual craft for a spy story.

• A score that supports the tension.

Fans of the genre can find similar titles in our action movie reviews.

Patriot Cast and Performances

The Patriot cast is led by two giants of Malayalam cinema. Mammootty is Dr. Daniel James and Mohanlal is Col. Rahim Naik. Their reunion after 13 years is the film's main selling point, and reviewers describe the acting as superb.

Kunchacko Boban appears as Michael Devassy. Fahadh Faasil plays Shakti, according to Rotten Tomatoes. That is a deep bench for a thriller, and it gives the supporting scenes real weight.

I can't verify further character details, so I'll leave it there. What matters is that the performances give the story credibility.

Where Patriot Stumbles

Critical reception is mixed, according to Wikipedia. The Indian Express gave the film 3 out of 5, which suggests a good film rather than a great one. No aggregate scores have been confirmed, so treat any single number with caution.

Length may also be a concern. Sources disagree on the runtime, ranging from about two and a half hours to three hours. A long spy thriller with a complex plot can lose momentum, and viewers who like tight pacing should be ready for that.

As a political thriller, the film also asks for patience. If you want nonstop action, the drama-heavy stretches may test you.

Is Patriot Worth Watching?

Yes, if you value strong performances and an ambitious premise more than a perfectly tight script. Patriot is not a flawless thriller, but the central pairing and the confident craft make it a worthwhile watch. Mixed critical reception means expectations should stay realistic.

If you are asking whether Patriot is worth watching for Mahesh Narayanan's direction, the answer is also positive. His writing and direction give the film a clear point of view. You can read more about the film on Wikipedia).

For a comparison, see our take on another recent drama about duty in Kartavya (2026) Review. It covers a very different story with similar themes of responsibility.

Who Will Enjoy Patriot

• Fans of Mammootty and Mohanlal who want to see them together again.

• Viewers who like spy thrillers with a political edge.

• Audiences who prefer ideas and performances over pure spectacle.