Krishand’s ‘Chronicles of the 4.5 gang’: Here’s why this series is a compelling watch

Director Krishand has consistently showcased a distinct and unconventional style in his filmmaking. From the mockumentary Aavasavyuham, which delivered a unique ecological narrative, to the quirky crime drama Purusha Pretham, and more recently, the intense Sangarsha Ghadana, his works have stood out for their unique storytelling.

Now, Krishand has returned with what many are calling Mollywood’s answer to Anurag Kashyap’s iconic 'Gangs of Wasseypur.' This six-episode series may feel like a slow burn — with episodes running between 45 minutes to an hour — but once you're in, it's hard to look away. Here are four compelling reasons why this gripping Malayalam series deserves a spot on your watchlist.

The world-building
Krishand draws us into a familiar yet captivating world set in Thiruvanchapuram, a fictional town in Kerala. The series follows a quirky gang of five — Arikuttan, Maniyan, Althaf, Kanji, and Moonga, who’s humorously counted as ‘half’ due to his small stature — as they chase the dream of becoming a feared and respected gang. Each member brings something different to the table: some are fiercely loyal, others driven by ego. But it’s their unlikely bond and the chaotic chemistry between them that bring this world to life in the most entertaining way.

The quirky narrative
Krishand is often associated with quirkiness — a label he acknowledges, even if reluctantly. And there’s no denying that Chronicles of the 4.5 Gang embraces that trait wholeheartedly. The narrative is a vibrant mix of satire, mass appeal, and a range of emotions, coming together in a layered, genre-defying potpourri. What makes it truly engaging is how Krishand seamlessly weaves moments that feel both believable and absurd — a delicate balance that could have easily gone off track in less careful hands. Yet, under his direction, it all holds together remarkably well.

The performances
Though set in the fictional town of Thiruvanchapuram, the film grounds itself in authenticity by having its characters speak in the distinct Thiruvananthapuram dialect. Given that much of the narrative is driven by dialogue, the creators have been careful to cast actors who can handle the dialect with ease and credibility.

Sanju Sivaram, known for his standout role in 1001 Babies, shines as Arikuttan. He brings a compelling blend of vulnerability and quiet ruthlessness to the role, adding depth and weight to the series. Niranj, son of Maniyanpilla Raju, delivers a solid performance as Althaf, while Shambu portrays the emotionally nuanced Maniyan with restraint and skill. Sreenath Babu (as Kanji) and Sachin Joseph Kalarickal (as Moonga) round out the gang with confident performances. Despite their limited screen time, both Darshana Rajendran and Santhy Balachandran make their presence felt with impactful performances.

The music
Sooraj Santhosh and Varkey are the composers behind the series' soundtrack. Across the six episodes, the series features an impressive 25 tracks — each distinct in tone, texture, and mood. The music moves effortlessly between the familiar and the unexpected, blending commercial sensibilities with indie experimentation. From hip-hop and orchestral pieces to native nadan elements, the soundtrack is a kaleidoscopic experience — rich, layered, and constantly shifting. It doesn’t just accompany the narrative; it elevates it, becoming an essential character in itself.
The series is now streaming on SonyLiv.