Plot
The central character in the narrative is Toby, a man whose peculiar characteristics draw comparisons to both the devil and an angel. Upon encountering Jenny, who is in search of her father, Sampath, the recently appointed station inspector, becomes intrigued by Toby. The film delves into Toby’s history, unraveling his early abandonment, significant relationships, and the impact of external influences on his world.
Chaitra showcases her acting prowess by embodying a resilient woman tasked with caring for a male child who has been a source of suffering, delivering a performance imbued with strength. The portrayals seamlessly blend the realms of acting and reality. The cleverly crafted one-liners from young Jenny contribute much-needed comedic relief. Samyukta’s detached and repetitive performance reflects an intimate observation of society. Despite her small persona, she communicates a great deal without uttering many words.
Review
Raj B Shetty delivers a powerful and authentic performance in every scene, despite his character’s silence. His acting effectively communicates without the need for words. Additionally, Shetty, who is also the writer, skillfully delves deeper into various scenes, adding layers to the narrative.
While the visuals of the scenes are visually stunning, they remain somewhat subdued. Praveen Shriyan’s cinematography adds complexity to the film, particularly through wide shots that capture both Toby’s brutality and the beauty of nature. Midhun Mukundan, the composer, deserves recognition as the unsung hero, as the unreleased songs contribute significantly to the film’s magic on the big screen. The two songs, one for each half, seamlessly blend with the overall cinematic experience.
The film defies easy categorization, incorporating elements from various genres. Despite a somewhat predictable premise, Toby’s narrative suffers from a slow pace, lacking unexpected or overpowering moments. The trailer sets expectations for a fairly typical climax, missing the opportunity for a cathartic resolution. While the movie boasts a fantastic pre-climax, it unfortunately falls flat towards the end.
In the backdrop of every South Indian village stands a Maari temple, a customary practice. The Goddess is revered as the protector of the village, often depicted on its periphery. Similarly, she is not permitted inside homes, symbolizing the need to channel her anger through acts of violence. This parallel between Toby and Maari adds an intriguing layer to the film’s narrative.
The synergy of a well-crafted script, breathtaking cinematography, and exceptional music has enabled the filmmakers to capture the essence of T K Dayanand’s short story. The compelling performances of the main characters hold your attention throughout. This film merits a rating of 2.5 out of 5 stars.
