August 1

August 1

Year: 1988

Runtime: 144 mins

Language: Malayalam

Director: Sibi Malayil

Crime

MKR, newly sworn chief minister after a fiercely contested election, becomes the target of a sinister plot when his political opponents hire a psychotic killer to eliminate him. Crime Branch officer Perumal is tasked with tracking the assassin, unraveling the conspiracy and preventing the murder before the state descends into chaos.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – August 1 (1988)

Trace every key event in August 1 (1988) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

KGR elected Chief Minister of Kerala

KGR is elected as the new Chief Minister, stepping into power with a clean image that sets him apart from rival aspirants. His early governance brings sweeping reforms and a sharpened public profile as he pushes through changes in the state administration and policies.

shortly after the party meeting Kerala
2

KGR's reforms solidify his rising popularity

KGR continues implementing reforms like dismissing corrupt officers and altering liquor policy, which boosts his image and fuels opposition from Kazhuthumuttam. The political stakes rise as his popularity threatens the rival's ambitions.

early days of tenure Kerala
3

Kazhuthumuttam plots to unseat KGR

Kazhuthumuttam, joined by Eranjoly Aboobakkar and Mathai Thomas Pappachan, hatches a plan to undermine KGR after a meeting. They convene in a hotel room to map out the next move while Vishwanathan lends his support as sponsor. The motive is to derail KGR before he consolidates power.

soon after the meeting Hotel room, Kerala
4

Vishwanathan commits to the assassination plan

Vishwam is determined to eliminate KGR because his business ambitions could be ruined by the Chief Minister's reformist administration. He presents the assassination plan and coordinates with other conspirators to execute it.

soon after Hotel room, Kerala
5

Nicholas recruited through a political network

Vishwam contacts Muniyandi Thevar, a Malaysian-based broker, who introduces him to professional assassin Nicholas. After the payment, Kazhuthumuttam feels cheated again when his hoped-for reward (the CM post) does not materialize.

after recruitment Madras / hotel contact
6

Gopu the journalist gets a crucial tip

In a drunken call, Kazhuthumuttam hints at an imminent assassination but refuses to reveal his identity. Gopu recognizes the caller as Kazhuthumuttam and passes the warning to Perumal, initiating a formal investigation.

shortly after the call Kerala, journalist's office
7

Perumal is assigned and begins the case

The IG orders a routine inquiry into the threat, and Perumal takes charge of the case. He arrests Vishwam, but the killer’s identity and hideout remain unknown at this stage.

early investigation Kerala
8

Perumal travels to Madras to nab Thevar

Perumal travels to Madras, breaks into Thevar's house, and brings him to Kerala in custody. Thevar becomes a crucial link between the conspirators and the planned attack on KGR.

after Vishwam arrest Madras, then Kerala
9

KGR hospitalized; Nicholas moves into the frame

Perumal learns that KGR has been admitted to a hospital, signaling Nicholas's move. He rushes to the hospital to ensure protection for the Chief Minister.

around hospital admission Hospital, Kerala
10

Nicholas makes a fatal hospital attempt

Disguised as a patient, Nicholas enters the CM’s room and tries to kill him, but Vatsala interrupts the attack. Perumal pursues Nicholas through the hospital, but the building’s security complicates the pursuit and blocks a quick capture.

during the CM's hospitalization Hospital, Kerala
11

Public sketch and intensified manhunt

An eyewitness helps Perumal produce a sketch of Nicholas, which is broadcast on TV to widen the search. Despite the broadcast, the killer remains elusive as police comb for leads.

after the hospital incident Kerala
12

15 August: guard of honour showdown

Security is tightened for the 15 August ceremony, and Perumal spots Nicholas in disguise among the guards. He fires first, saving KGR before the assassin can strike. Nicholas is killed and buried in the orthodox manner.

15 August State capital, guard of honour ceremony

Last Updated: October 09, 2025 at 14:25

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Characters, Settings & Themes in August 1

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