Andhadhun Movie Review (2018): A Masterpiece of Suspense

Synopsis

“Andhadhun,” directed by Sriram Raghavan, unfolds in Pune, India, where Akash (Ayushmann Khurrana), a talented pianist, pretends to be blind to enhance his musical skills. His deception inadvertently entangles him in a web of deceit and murder when he witnesses the aftermath of a killing. The victim is Pramod Sinha (Anil Dhawan), a former Bollywood star, and the perpetrators are his wife Simi (Tabu) and her lover (Manav Vij). What ensues is a twisted tale of deception, moral ambiguity, and unexpected twists that challenge the audience’s perception of truth and reality.

Story

“Andhadhun” is a gripping narrative that expertly blends suspense, dark comedy, and neo-noir elements, a trademark of director Sriram Raghavan’s filmmaking style. Inspired by the French short film “The Piano Tuner” (2010) by Olivier Treiner, Raghavan transforms the premise into a uniquely Indian thriller with unexpected plot twists and morally complex characters.

The story begins with Akash’s seemingly harmless decision to feign blindness, believing it will enhance his ability to connect with music. Little does he know, this charade will thrust him into a world of crime and deception. His encounter with the murder scene sets off a series of events that unfold with the precision of a suspenseful thriller, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.

Raghavan’s direction is meticulous in establishing the film’s atmosphere and pacing. The first half of “Andhadhun” is particularly riveting, setting up the characters and their motivations with finesse. As Akash navigates through a labyrinth of lies and dangerous alliances, the narrative deepens, culminating in a climax that delivers on the film’s promise of suspense and intrigue.

Review

Engaging Narrative and Twists

“Andhadhun” captivates viewers from its opening frame, establishing a palpable sense of unease that permeates throughout the film. Raghavan’s storytelling prowess shines as he skillfully navigates through multiple layers of deception and moral dilemmas. The film’s narrative unfolds like a carefully orchestrated puzzle, with each plot twist revealing new dimensions to the characters and their motivations.

The screenplay, co-written by Sriram Raghavan and Arijit Biswas, is a testament to meticulous storytelling. It deftly blends suspense, dark humor, and unexpected revelations, keeping the audience guessing until the final moments. The narrative complexity of “Andhadhun” is its strength, offering viewers a thrilling ride filled with suspenseful sequences and thought-provoking moral dilemmas.

Complex Characters and Performances

At the heart of “Andhadhun” are its richly drawn characters brought to life by exceptional performances. Ayushmann Khurrana delivers a career-defining portrayal as Akash, the blind pianist caught in a dangerous game of deceit. Khurrana effortlessly transitions between Akash’s outward vulnerability and his hidden depths, capturing the character’s complexity with nuance and sensitivity. His portrayal is a testament to his versatility as an actor, grounding the film with his compelling presence.

Tabu shines as Simi, the enigmatic and morally ambiguous femme fatale whose actions drive much of the plot’s momentum. Simi is a character steeped in layers of intrigue, portrayed with equal parts charm and ruthlessness by Tabu. Her performance is a masterclass in subtlety and restraint, as she navigates Simi’s transformation from a bored housewife seeking excitement to a cunning manipulator entangled in a web of lies.

The supporting cast, including Anil Dhawan as the aging actor Pramod Sinha and Manav Vij as Simi’s lover, deliver solid performances that enrich the narrative tapestry. Radhika Apte, in a smaller role, leaves a lasting impact with her understated yet significant portrayal.

Atmospheric Cinematography and Music

U. Mohanan’s cinematography plays a pivotal role in capturing the mood and setting of “Andhadhun.” Set against the backdrop of Pune’s urban landscape, Mohanan’s visuals oscillate between vibrant streets and shadowy alleys, mirroring the film’s themes of deception and intrigue. The use of lighting and camera angles enhances the noir aesthetics of the film, creating an atmosphere that is both visually arresting and thematically resonant.

Amit Trivedi’s haunting musical score complements the narrative perfectly, underscoring key moments with evocative melodies that heighten the film’s suspense and emotional depth. The soundtrack, which includes reimagined classics from Hindi cinema’s golden era, not only enriches the storytelling but also adds a layer of nostalgia and intrigue.

Personal Opinion

‘Andhadhun‘ left an indelible impression with its gripping narrative, exceptional performances, and skillful direction by Sriram Raghavan. The film’s ability to blend dark comedy with suspenseful twists kept me thoroughly engaged from start to finish. Ayushmann Khurrana and Tabu deliver standout performances, anchoring the film with their impeccable acting prowess. Overall, ‘Andhadhun’ stands out as a masterfully crafted thriller that challenges conventions and leaves a lasting impact.

What’s Good

• The screenplay by Sriram Raghavan and Arijit Biswas is a testament to meticulous storytelling, blending suspense, dark humor, and moral ambiguity seamlessly.
• Ayushmann Khurrana and Tabu deliver powerhouse performances that elevate the film, supported by a talented ensemble cast.
• The film’s technical craftsmanship, including cinematography and music, enhances its noir sensibilities and elevates the overall viewing experience.

What’s Bad

• While the film maintains a gripping pace for the most part, the second half occasionally loses momentum with extended dialogues that could have been more tightly edited.
• Some viewers may find the narrative twists and turns overly complex, requiring careful attention to fully appreciate the intricacies of the plot.

Rating

“Andhadhun” emerges as a triumph of storytelling and performances, offering a compelling blend of suspense, dark comedy, and neo-noir aesthetics. Despite minor pacing issues in the second half, its gripping narrative and memorable characters make it a must-watch for aficionados of thrillers and unconventional cinema.