Test Review

"Test" - A Fine Film Elevated by Stellar Performances

The film Test, starring Nayanthara, Madhavan, and Siddharth, is a powerful drama that benefits immensely from the talent of its lead actors. Produced by YNot Studios, this film also marks the directorial debut of Sashikanth and has been released as a Netflix Original.

The story revolves around three central characters facing life-altering challenges. Arjun (Siddharth), a cricketer, is under pressure to retire from the sport, but he fights desperately to prove himself one last time. Meanwhile, Saravanan aka Sara (Madhavan) is a scientist striving to secure government approval for a revolutionary project that extracts petrol from water. On the personal front, his wife Kumudha (Nayanthara) is undergoing fertility treatment, determined to have a child through IVF-a procedure that requires a significant financial investment.

The film explores how these three lives intersect around a ‘test’-literal and metaphorical-and the outcomes they face.

All four principal actors-Madhavan, Siddharth, Nayanthara, and Meera Jasmine-deliver exceptional performances, each striving to outshine the other. Siddharth stands out as a man who refuses to give up on his dreams despite mounting odds. Madhavan delivers a restrained yet deeply moving performance as a man disrespected both at home and in society. Nayanthara impresses with her natural dialogue delivery, having used her own voice in live recording for the first time. Each character is well-crafted, and the actors rise to the occasion with nuanced performances.

Meera Jasmine deserves special mention-silent for most of the film, she delivers a powerful monologue in a single take during the climax that leaves a lasting impact.

Director Sashikanth’s meticulous attention to detail and rich visual tone enhance the overall cinematic experience. However, the screenplay could have used a tighter pace and better clarity in certain scenes. For instance, portraying Madhavan’s character as a renowned scientist but involving him in morally questionable actions creates a sense of disbelief, making it harder for audiences to empathize with his journey. Despite that, Sashikanth uses the character to illustrate how circumstances can drastically change a person.

Viraj Singh Gohil’s cinematography, especially in the cricket sequences, is striking. It evokes nostalgic memories of old Indian cricket moments and gives a near-live match feel. The visual aesthetics, including the looks and styling of all the lead actors, are beautifully captured.

Editing by T.S. Suresh could have been more precise-some scenes feel overly long, and a few seem repetitive, merely dressed in different costumes.

Singer Shakthisree Gopalan makes her debut as a music composer in this film, and her background score is a major strength. The track “Hope” deeply resonates with the emotional arc of the film. The lyrics “Vilagida Vellai Kathire…” are particularly haunting and moving.

In conclusion, Test is a film that stands firm-thanks to its carefully chosen cast, heartfelt performances, and solid technical foundation. While it has its flaws, it leaves a meaningful impression.