Some films ask audiences to follow the story. Girish AD's Bethlehem Kudumba Unit also seems to have them looking out for what is happening in the background. Since its OTT release, viewers have been revisiting the film to spot the many pop-culture references tucked into its conversations and visual moments.
The references range from popular Malayalam films and Tamil cinema to short films, viral videos and internet trends. While some of them were spotted during the theatrical run, the film's digital release has prompted audiences to identify several of the more subtle ones. Malayalam media reports have now compiled more than 20 such references, with social media users continuing to point out others.
Among the references drawing attention are nods to Vijay, Trisha and Ajith Kumar. Vijay's 'Naan Nadanthal Athiradi' from Sura is used in the film, while there's a recall to Trisha's appearance in 96. Ajith references, including nods to Mankatha and Good Bad Ugly, had already been noticed by audiences during the theatrical release.
The film's references extend much further. Dialogues from Spadikam, Chandralekha, Mayavi, Pattanapravesham, Meesa Madhavan, Pulival Kalyanam and Ramji Rao Speaking are incorporated into different situations. There are also references to Hero, Kantara and Thudarum, including a recreation of Mohanlal's jump from the latter.
Interestingly, Girish and co-writer Kiran Josey have also looked beyond mainstream cinema. References to short films such as Chunnambu, Vipranasham and Orchid Pookal Parnja Katha, along with viral videos and TikTok creator Ambili, have been identified in the film. The fictional short film Soulmates – Oru Sathukudi Pranayam, which features in the story, has also developed a life of its own online.
Kiran had earlier told Onmanorama that the references were not written into the screenplay simply to create jokes. He explained that the team used them when they suited a particular situation, citing the scene where Joel says “Ayyappa” instead of “action” as an example. The Indian Express had similarly noted how such references add to the film without making them feel artificial.
Bethlehem Kudumba Unit, directed by Girish AD and starring Nivin Pauly and Mamitha Baiju, released in theatres on August 21 and later began streaming on JioHotstar on October 2. The film follows Justin, a bachelor in his thirties, and Ashley, who moves into his neighbourhood with her family. Dileesh Pothan, Sangeeth Prathap, Suresh Krishna, Vinay Forrt and Roshan Shanavas are also part of the cast.
