The plot twist is a literary element that has long been used to keep an audience on its toes by dishing out new and unexpected developments. However, as with any good thing in this world, it pays to use this device sparingly, especially when each successive twist grows increasingly hard to believe!
This is the certainly the case with “Sila Nodigalil”, a Tamil-language thriller produced by Malaysian actress Punnagai Poo Gheetha and directed by Indian filmmaker Vinay Bharadwaj.
The film, which premiered in local cinemas on Friday, actually starts with much potential. But by the time you leave the cinema, the only thought that will remain in your head is: “What on earth just happened?”
It is quite a shame, as the movie actually has certain good points on top of high production standards – all of which are drowned out by an overcomplicated plot.
On the surface, it is a deceptively simple tale. Dr Raj Varadhan (Richard Rishi) is a well-regarded cosmetic surgeon living his best middle-class life in London.
Unfortunately, while he is a talented physician, he is also a two-timer who is having an affair with a former patient and model, Maya Pillai (Yaashika Aanand). Haiyoh.
Things start to go terribly wrong when Maya accidentally dies of a drug overdose, leaving Raj in a state of panic. Not willing to disclose his infidelity to his wife Medha (played by Gheetha herself), he quietly disposes of the body.
However, the guilt of his deed haunts him, as does the fear of discovery – and soon enough, the not-so-good doctor starts to see Maya wherever he goes.
And while his growing paranoia and descent into insanity puts a strain on his marriage, it soon becomes clear something bigger and much more convoluted is afoot!
One of the stronger points of “Sila Nodigalil” is actually its small-scale, high-stakes story that involves just a handful of characters. As the central couple whose relationship is in turmoil, Rishi and Geetha play off each other well and have a convincing, albeit conflict-ridden, chemistry.
Rishi, in particular, is cast in the unenviable role of a protagonist towards whom one ought not feel empathetic. Yet, he plays the part with enough aplomb to merit some pity points for his character.
Of course, you won’t be able to help but feel bad for Medha, given that she has no idea why her hubby is acting so strangely.
Geetha puts her heart into her performance, though viewers might end up getting frustrated with her character for giving Raj more chances than he deserves. Lady, call the cops and get a divorce!
That all said, strong performances and compelling characters can end up severely sidelined by a story that twists itself into knots, which unfortunately is what happens here.
The final quarter, especially, is filled with so many curveballs that it will make your head spin – and not in a good way. Some of these turns and bombshells make sense; others, not so much.
Without wanting to give anything away, the very final twist was the straw that broke the camel’s back for this reviewer. The film should have remained grounded and built on the dread of not knowing how far Raj will go to protect his secret, rather than sacrificing it all for the sake of plot.
So, should you check out “Sila Nodigalil”? Sure, if mystifying Tamil mysteries are your thing.
It’s not entirely bereft of entertainment value, though one can’t help but wonder what it would’ve been like had the story stayed much, much simpler.
As of press time, ‘Sila Nodigalil’ is screening in selected cinemas nationwide.