Review: Black - Ambitious and Worthwhile

 

Movie: Black
Rating: 3.25/5

Cast: Jiiva, Priya Bhavani Shankar, Vivek Prasanna, Sha Ra and Others

Director: KG Balasubramani

Produced By: Potential Studios LLP

Release Date: October 11, 2024

Story:

Vasanth (Jiiva) and Aranya (Priya Bhavani) are a couple who move to a villa which is owned by them and is located on the outskirts of Chennai, close to the beach. They are the inaugural residents of this house. What begins as a tranquil weekend retreat rapidly devolves into a harrowing experience as they face bizarre incidents. They encounter multiple iterations of incidents involving themselves and try to determine whether these phenomena are supernatural or if there exists a rational scientific explanation.

 

Performances:

Jiiva and Priya Bhavani Shankar deliver commendable performances. It is not that easy to make the repetitive proceedings fresh/suspenseful with their acting but the lead pair does a good job in convincing audiences. Vivek Prasanna, Sha Ra, and others were fine.

What worked for the film:

Director KG Balasubramani introduces a complex narrative in Black, endeavoring to resolve its intricacies by the time the final credits roll. Inspired by a Hollywood film named Coherence, the film deals with the ideas of multiple timelines and parallel realities. Although it initially takes a while to engage with the narration, it eventually gains momentum and stays at the same level for most of the parts. It also attempts to provide a scientific explanation of the proceedings. The struggles that the lead pair go through have the required emotional impact and one wants them to cross all the hurdles and rejoice in the end. The film also benefits from perfect camera work and a neat background score. 

What did not work for the film:

Though the film tries to address all the doubts of audiences, the scientific explanation is confusing at times and the repetitive feel ( though it is necessary) hampers the shock value after a point. The director could have entered into the storyline much earlier rather than wasting the time with unnecessary pub song and a fight. The expedition near the climax of the opening sequence could have been more effective. 

Black Review and Verdict:

Black was successful in providing an engaging experience. Despite its shortcomings, the interesting storyline, near-perfect screenplay, strong acting, and good technical support help the film reach its goal.