Film Critic Analysis by Bipin Sasi
In the cinematic landscape of Malayalam cinema, “Identity” directed by Akhil Paul and Anas Khan emerges as a significant entry for 2025, blending action, crime, and thriller elements into a narrative that aims to leave audiences both puzzled and exhilarated. Starring Tovino Thomas, Trisha Krishnan, and Vinay Rai, “Identity” attempts to navigate through the complexities of human identity, deception, and the pursuit of justice.
Plot Overview:
The film opens with a chilling premise: a murder witnessed by a journalist, Alisha (Trisha Krishnan), whose subsequent accident leads to her suffering from prosopagnosia (face blindness), adding a unique twist to the investigation. ACP Allen Jacob (Vinay Rai) and sketch artist Haran Shankar (Tovino Thomas) dive into this labyrinthine case, where each clue unravels further layers of intrigue and deception.
Performances:
Tovino Thomas delivers a compelling performance, embodying Haran with a mix of vulnerability and intensity that keeps viewers engaged. His portrayal of a character with an obsessive personality disorder adds depth to the narrative. Trisha Krishnan, though somewhat underutilized, brings a certain gravitas to her role, though her character lacks the depth needed to truly shine. Vinay Rai’s portrayal of Allen is both stylish and layered, providing a solid anchor to the film’s investigative side.
Direction and Screenplay:
Directors Akhil Paul and Anas Khan, known for their previous work “Forensic,” attempt to elevate the genre with intricate plot twists and a commendable attention to detail in terms of technical aspects like the depiction of sketch artistry and the nuances of prosopagnosia. However, the screenplay struggles under the weight of too many twists, leading to an occasionally convoluted narrative that might confuse rather than captivate. The ambition to cover multiple themes like identity, trauma, and corruption is palpable, yet it sometimes feels like the film bites off more than it can chew.
Technical Aspects:
The cinematography by Akhil George is visually striking, with a keen sense of framing that enhances the film’s suspenseful atmosphere. Jakes Bejoy’s score complements the narrative tension, though at times it feels overpowering, leaving little room for the story to breathe. The action sequences, particularly those set in confined spaces like an aircraft, are choreographed with flair, showcasing a level of ambition rare in Malayalam cinema.
Critique and Conclusion:
“Identity” is a film of ambition and potential, marred by its own complexity. It offers moments of genuine thrill and intrigue, particularly in its first half, but the latter part struggles to maintain the initial momentum due to its sprawling narrative. While the performances are strong, the script’s overzealous approach to plot development can detract from character development and audience engagement.
For fans of Malayalam cinema looking for something stylistically different and technically ambitious, “Identity” might still be a worthwhile watch. However, those seeking a tightly knit, focused thriller might find themselves slightly disappointed.
Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
This review reflects the film’s attempt to push boundaries within the genre, acknowledging both its achievements and its shortcomings, offering a balanced perspective for potential viewers.