Roshan Mathew is set to lead Human, the upcoming film written and directed by Jeo Baby. The filmmaker, who earned widespread recognition for exploring complex social realities through films such as The Great Indian Kitchen and Kaathal – The Core, is now venturing into a new project that appears to carry a crime-driven premise. The film was officially launched in Kochi on Sunday, with the makers unveiling its title poster in the presence of the cast and crew.
While the team has kept the film’s narrative under wraps, the first-look material offers a few intriguing visual clues. Featuring a handgun, SIM cards and a colourful mask against a dark wooden background, the poster hints at a story involving crime and potentially concealed identities. However, the makers have yet to reveal further details about the plot, the supporting cast or the film’s specific genre. Human is currently slated for a 2027 release.
Roshan Mathew joins forces with Jeo Baby for Human
Human marks another addition to Roshan Mathew’s growing slate of projects across Malayalam cinema. The actor, known for his ability to move between unconventional dramas and mainstream narratives, was last seen in M Padmakumar’s crime drama Uyir. He is also part of Ekadesham, the upcoming film from acclaimed filmmaker Don Palathara, whose work has frequently explored the complexities of human behaviour and interpersonal relationships.
For Jeo Baby, Human follows a filmography shaped by his interest in social structures, intimate relationships and uncomfortable questions. The Great Indian Kitchen, starring Nimisha Sajayan and Suraj Venjaramoodu, examined the gendered division of domestic labour and the everyday experiences of women within patriarchal households. The film received considerable acclaim for its treatment of the subject and established Jeo as one of Malayalam cinema’s prominent contemporary voices.
He subsequently directed Kaathal – The Core, headlined by Mammootty and Jyothika. The drama explored sexuality, marriage and social expectations through the story of a long-married couple confronting deeply personal truths. The film further demonstrated the director’s willingness to tackle subjects that are often approached cautiously in mainstream Indian cinema.
With Human, the filmmaker appears to be exploring a different narrative space, although the absence of an official synopsis makes it difficult to determine how the project will fit into his body of work.
Jeo Baby reunites with his regular technical team
Human brings together several familiar names from the director’s creative circle. Jeo Baby has also written the screenplay, while Salu K Thomas is handling cinematography. Francies Louis, who has collaborated with the filmmaker on previous projects, is in charge of editing, with Mathews Pulickan composing the music.
The film is being produced by Sanju Unnithan under the banner of Spire Productions. Beyond the announcement of Roshan Mathew as the lead, the makers have not disclosed additional casting details or confirmed a shooting schedule.
Meanwhile, Jeo Baby’s most recent directorial venture, Ebb, remains awaiting release. Starring the filmmaker alongside Divya Prabha, known for All We Imagine As Light, and Jithin Puthenchery, the film premiered at the 30th International Film Festival of Kerala in 2025. Its provocative themes prompted divided responses from viewers, and a wider release has yet to materialise. Whether the film eventually arrives in theatres or premieres on a digital platform remains uncertain.
With Human now officially announced, further updates on its cast, production and storyline are expected as the project progresses towards its planned 2027 release.
Also Read: Roshan Mathew’s True Crime-Inspired Thriller Uyir All Set For OTT Release
