'Anukoni Athidhi', the dubbed version of the Malayalam movie 'Athiran', is streaming on Aha. Here is our review of the latest OTT release.

Story:

Fahadh Faasil plays a doctor who has been assigned the task of certifying a countryside mental asylum, which is helmed by a villainous, hypnotism-skilled Dr. Benjamin (Atul Kulkarni). The hero suspects that Dr. Benjamin's practices are problematic.

As the drama unfolds in the British colonial-era mansion-like asylum, the hero realizes that Nitya (Sai Pallavi), one of the six inmates there, has been incarcerated. What does Dr. Benjamin want to hide from the hero? Can the hero discover all the hidden secrets? Who is he? Answers to these questions are found as the story advances.

Analysis:

Mollywood actor Fahadh Faasil comes with breathtaking filmography. Known for acclaimed movies such as 'Varathan', 'Njan Prakashan' and 'Kumbalangi Nights', the actor will be debuting in Telugu with Sukumar's 'Pushpa'. In the film under review, he makes a suitable impression right from the word go. As a fearless, calm, determined and well-meaning doctor with an unflinching passion to set Nithya free, he is superb and subtle. Actor Tarun, the chocolate boy of the 2000s Telugu cinema, has dubbed for his character.  

Sai Pallavi's filmography needs no introduction. In the film under review, she aces the role of an autistic woman with aplomb. Her scenes with her father (played by Renji Panicker) are well-crafted.

The film doesn't have too many characters and sticks to its paranormal thriller beats. When the likes of Renuka (played by Leena) are around, it assumes the mantle of a crime thriller as well. Malayalam screen-writer PF Mathews shows flashes of brilliance in the way the film ends, the final twist is haunting.

Set in a bygone era, the film also knows how to play with a number of characters. Leona Lishoy plays a nun with her own set of issues. Sudev Nair plays an interesting character who arouses suspicions. Surabhi Lakshmi's scenes with Faasil are intriguing in fits and starts. Vijay Menon plays a self-absorbed professor who spouts the word 'schadenfreude' (which sounds too pretentious). There is also a painter who is incredibly clairvoyant (which doesn't sound possible unless the painter is an avatar of some God). Then there is the element of Kalari, the Indian martial art that originated in Kerala.  

While the characters are exciting in bits and pieces, their placement in the scheme of things sounds old-fashioned. The film somehow lacks gripping story-telling. After a point, Atul Kulkarni's character starts looking bland. The element of hypnotism hasn't been milked cleverly. And we never understand how come the villain is not on his toes until the climax when his days look numbered if he doesn't control the hero on a war footing.

Director of Photography Anu Moothedath is able, while background score composer Ghibran delivers goods. The duo makes sure that the film remains watchable even when the scenes are a drag.

Verdict:

'Anukoni Athidhi' can be watched once. Its storyline and performances are its best assets. On the flip side, the movie lacks a gripping narration.