Aarambham Review

Aarambham delves into the enigmatic escape of a prisoner from a heavily fortified prison, unraveling a series of twists and turns as the investigation unfolds.

Story:

The Kalaghati jail's police department is stunned when Mighel (Mohan Bhagath), a death row prisoner, escapes in a baffling manner. To unravel the mystery behind his escape, detectives Chaitanya (Ravindra Vijay) and Madhav (Abhishek Boddepalli) are called in. The story unfolds as their investigation takes unexpected turns, adding depth to the narrative.

Analysis:

Mohan Bhagath delivers a compelling performance, portraying his character with authenticity and depth, devoid of any stereotypes. He seamlessly embodies the role of an ordinary individual, showcasing a range of emotions and expressions that captivate the audience. Supritha Satyanarayan shines in her role as the female lead, while Ravindra Vijay, known for his roles in "Mangalavaram" and "Keedacola," impresses as a detective. Surbhi Prabhavathi's portrayal of the mother is heartwarming, and Bhushan delivers a noteworthy performance as a scientist. Laxman Misala and Ravindra Vijay also leave a lasting impact in their respective roles.

Recent directors are exploring innovative concepts, drawing inspiration from literature and global cinema. While these ideas are intellectually stimulating, they sometimes struggle to connect with a mainstream audience. "Aarambham," too, treads a unique path, blending elements of science and spirituality. The film's success lies in its execution and ability to engage the audience, although there are moments of confusion.

Director Ajay Nagu, known for his work as a cinematographer in award-winning films like "Vindu Bhojanam" and "The Great Indian Suicide," makes a promising directorial debut with "Aarambham." Based on a Kannada novel, the film unfolds in chapters, adding an intriguing narrative structure. The first chapter ends on a cliffhanger, setting the stage for a suspenseful journey into Mighel's escape from jail. The sequences that follow are thrilling, with glimpses into Mighel's childhood and his mother's emotions adding depth to the story.

The second part of the film introduces an exciting twist, challenging the audience's expectations. The collaboration between Mighel and Subramania Rao on a project raises thought-provoking questions, adding a layer of complexity to the narrative. While the film delves into technical and scientific concepts, its slow pacing and lack of twists may deter some viewers. A more engaging screenplay could have elevated the overall impact of the film.

Devdeep Gandhi's cinematography captures the beauty of the landscape, adding a visual charm to the film. Sinjith Yerramilli's music, especially the background score, stands out as a highlight, enhancing the film's mood and atmosphere. The art direction is commendable, creating a visually captivating setting for the story.

Verdict:

Aarambham is a commendable effort that blends science and spirituality, offering a unique cinematic experience. While its technical aspects and performances shine, a more dynamic screenplay could have elevated its impact further.