Drishyam

Drishyam is an Indian thriller drama film released on 31 July 2015. Directed by Nishikant Kamat, the film boasts a phenomenal cast led by Ajay Devgn, with stellar performances by Shriya Saran and the quintessential Tabu. The title 'Drishyam' means 'Visuals,' encapsulating the movie's theme of 'What you see, is not always the truth.' Deeply embedded in the power of perception, intriguing storytelling and thrilling suspense, the film revolves around the concept of deceptive optics.

Ajay Devgn portrays Vijay Salgaonkar, a fourth-grade dropout who is a cinema lover and runs a small cable TV service in a remote and hilly village in Goa. He lives a simple yet content life with his family, which consists of his wife Nandini, played by Shriya Saran, and their two daughters. Being a huge fan of cinema, Vijay devours films of all genres and imbibes the essence of various aspects from the movies he watches. This adaptation from films to real life serves as an integral part of the narrative further down the line.

The plot follows a twist when Vijay's and Nandini's older daughter Anju, a highly studious girl, goes for a Nature Camp. Situations spiral out of hand leading to an unexpected and intense rollercoaster ride. The Salgaonkar family's peaceful life turns upside down as they become embroiled in a high-stakes situation, concerning both the law enforcement authorities and their societal reputation.

In the guise of Inspector General of Goa Police, Meera Deshmukh, played by the exceptional performer Tabu, the law enforcement's and societal pressure looms like a shadow over the tranquil life of the Salgaonkars. Meera as a high-ranking police officer and a worried mother looking for her missing son brings a multitude of emotions and complexities to her character.

Drishyam is a remake of a Malayalam film by the same name and has been well-adapted to cater to a more pan-Indian audience. The film stands out for its unique and novel approach to Indian thriller cinema, pivoting from the usual action-packed gunfights and high-speed chases. It focuses more on the mental and strategic side of a man protecting his family from a grim situation, a characteristic that Ajay Devgn's character embodies profoundly within the film.

Deeply rooted in its setting, the film beautifully captures the essence of a Goa village, with cinematography by Avinash Arun depicting the local life in intricate details. The film’s carefully written screenplay by Jeethu Joseph and Upendra Sidhaye is captivating, engaging the audience as they try to piece together the puzzle of the thrilling narrative.

What sets Drishyam apart is the strategic mind play and psychological warfare between law enforcement and the common man. A battle of wits, where facts and truth are subjective depending on the viewer's perspective. Yet, it isn't just about the mental game. The film explores familial bonds, a father's love and desperation to protect his family, reflecting on how ordinary people can go to extraordinary lengths when pushed against the wall.

Ajay Devgn's impeccable portrayal of his character, a simple man turned strategist, brings intensity and depth to the narrative. His performance, along with Tabu's high-strung, multifaceted representation of a police officer, brings together a film that walks a delicate line between emotional drama and nail-biting suspense.

Drishyam also features Rajat Kapoor, Prathamesh Parab, and Ishita Dutta in supporting roles, with each character further enriching the narrative with their engaging performances. The movie also boasts of a soulful soundtrack, complimenting the overall narrative beautifully. The background score by Sameer Phaterpekar does an excellent job of enhancing the suspenseful sequences, thereby escalating pivotal narrative moments.

In summary, Drishyam is a nerve-wracking thriller drama that highlights strategic cunning coupled with emotional depth in a high-stakes familial crisis. It keeps viewers on the edge of their seats with its cut-throat suspense and narratively rich storytelling. Even with its intense plotline, the narrative never compromises on its empathy and emotional resonance with the audience.