From Thaneer Mathan Dinangal to Bethlehem Kudumba Unit: Why Girish AD packs a suitcase for characters

The delightful Malayalam family entertainer Bethlehem Kudumba Unit is running to packed houses, bringing much-needed laughter and warmth to theatres. For viewers tired of the dark, violent, and heavy themes dominating modern cinema, this film arrives like a refreshing November breeze. It is the kind of feel-good movie that leaves you with a warm heart and a bright smile as you step out of the cinema hall.

Helmed by director Girish AD, the film brings together a stellar cast including Nivin Pauly and Mamitha Baiju. Having already crossed the coveted ₹200 crore mark globally, the movie has cemented its status as an industry hit. As audiences celebrate this success, film enthusiasts are busy decoding a fascinating signature pattern in Girish AD’s filmography—his characters are almost always on the move, embarking on unforgettable journeys from his very first movie to his latest blockbuster.

Girish AD has carved out a unique niche in Malayalam cinema by blending genuine romantic elements with sharp comedy. While his debut featured a charming high-school crush, his latest film tackles a romance with a noticeable age gap. However, beyond the love stories, travel remains an irreplaceable narrative device in his storytelling. Let’s take a look at the memorable journeys that have defined his cinematic universe.

Thaneer Mathan Dinangal – Mysore
In his debut directorial venture, Thaneer Mathan Dinangal, Girish sends Jaison and his school friends on an exciting excursion to Mysore. The trip is packed with teenage drama, especially with the eccentric teacher Ravi Pappan constantly getting under Jaison's skin, making for incredibly funny moments.
Mysore remains one of the most beloved destinations for Kerala's school trips, offering stunning attractions like the majestic Mysore Palace, Chamundi Hills, Mysore Zoo, Brindavan Gardens, St Philomena’s Church, and Jaganmohan Palace. The movie perfectly captured the nostalgia of these teenage excursions.

Super Sharanya – Kochi
Compared to his other films, the journey in Super Sharanya is a shorter, breezy weekend getaway. Sharanya, along with her best friend Sona and their college gang, heads out to explore the bustling city of Kochi and Fort Kochi. The trip is beautifully captured in the vibrant song sequence 'Sharu in Town', showcasing the iconic Kochi Metro, Edappally Church, Lulu Mall, a scenic junk boat ride, and the historic streets of Fort Kochi. It wonderfully encapsulates the joy of exploring a big city with friends for the first time during college life.

Premalu – Hyderabad
The record-shattering rom-com Premalu, starring Naslen, Mamitha Baiju, Sangeeth Prathap, and Shyam Mohan, also features an extensive exploration of Hyderabad. The characters, including Reenu, Sachin, Amal Davis, Karthika, and Aadhi, wander through the historic city, turning their sightseeing adventures into a crucial turning point for the story’s relationships.
The film beautifully frames Hyderabad’s iconic landmarks, including the Charminar, Makkah Masjid, Golconda Fort, Ramoji Film City, Hussain Sagar Lake, Chowmahalla Palace, and the Salar Jung Museum, making the city itself a living, breathing character.

Bethlehem Kudumba Unit – Goa
In his latest box-office hit, the travel tradition continues with a hilarious trip to Goa. Once Justin (played by Nivin Pauly) and Ashley (played by Mamitha Baiju) secretly fall in love, their journey to India’s favourite beach destination becomes an absolute riot. From playful train exchanges to sneaky phone calls amidst a crowd, the romance brews beautifully. Things get even funnier as Ashley's protective uncle, played brilliantly by Vinay Forrt, starts suspecting that something is fishy between the two.

Goa is renowned for its sun-soaked beaches. While North Goa highlights like Baga, Calangute, and Anjuna are famous for water sports and vibrant nightlife, South Goa’s Palolem and Colva offer serene, peaceful escapes. The historic Basilica of Bom Jesus and Cabo de Rama Fort also add a touch of colonial charm to the state. Set against this stunning backdrop, the movie beautifully elevates the chemistry between the lead pair.

With travel being such an essential ingredient in Girish AD’s romantic-comedy recipe, fans on social media are already speculating about where the director will take his characters next. One thing is certain: wherever they go, audiences are in for a thoroughly entertaining ride.