Lilli

Lilli, released in 2018, is a gritty and intense Malayalam-language Indian film, helmed by first-time director Prasobh Vijayan. The film showcases a sharp contrast against the usual upbeat and colourful portrayal of the South Indian region, delving instead into a dark, harrowing and brutally raw narrative.

Central to the story is Lilli, played to unnerving perfection by Samyuktha Menon. Menon shines in the portrayal of Lilli, a pregnant woman who becomes an unsuspecting victim of kidnapping. The audience gets an intense, close-up view of her struggle as she combats the peril she’s met with. Throughout the film, Lilli's character shines as an unstoppably resilient force, underscoring the depiction of women as courageous fighters rather than damsel-in-distress figures. Despite the macabre storyline, her performance carves a hopeful narrative that speaks to the power of human will and resilience.

As Lilli faces impending doom, Aaryan Menon offers a convincing portrayal of an accomplice to the antagonists. Menon’s character serves as a chilling embodiment of heartless malevolence, further intensifying the overall disturbing atmosphere of the film. His role serves to draw out the deep-seated fear, tension, and claustrophobia that permeate the screen.

Dhanesh Anand rounds out the main cast, delivering a noteworthy performance that adds more contrast and complexity to the plot. Anand’s performance serves as a catalyst to confront the disturbing underbelly of humanity that the film emphasizes.

Prasobh Vijayan's directorial debut is a benchmark setter. His storytelling does justice to the grim narrative as he carefully maps out each nerve-wracking scene. The film's physical violence is shot with an unforgiving realism that leaves the audience at the edge of their seats, but he balances it with psychological warfare that exacerbates the fear and anticipation. Vijayan successfully avoids sensationalism, letting the story unfold organically and powerfully.

While Lilli revolves around the harrowing experience of its titular character, it is far from being a one-dimensional narrative. It takes unflinching swipes at societal vices that unfortunately coexist with everyday life in society. It delves into shocking themes, exploring the depth of human depravity, the corruption of innocence, and the extent of sadism for personal benefit, among others.

The cinematographic aspect is another key strength of Lilli. Its rich and expressive visuals serve mostly in the cramped, dimly lit spaces that manage to encapsulate the dreary ambiance of the story. The grainy imagery, frequent close-ups, and cryptic shots draw the audience deeper into the narrative, enabling a profound connection with the unfolding drama.

The film's sound design is also intriguing with its unsettling score, adding another layer to the unsettling visual narrative. The background score exudes an eerie aura that resonates through each frame, reinforcing the perilous and dreadful atmosphere of Lilli's entrapment.

As a combination of various cinematic aspects, Lilli finds its strength in its cast's performances, its raw storytelling, and gripping visuals. It's a bold film unafraid to showcase a harsh reality, where evil isn't vanquished by a single heroic act. Instead, it paints a realistic picture of ongoing struggle, where the victories might be small, but nevertheless, are significant.

In conclusion, Lilli taps into a niche genre, departing from the traditional themes of Indian cinema. As a psychological thriller, it offers its audiences an unraveling of the characters’ depths, showcasing powerful performances, a deftly woven plotline, and suspenseful cinematography. It’s a chilling and unnerving cinematic journey that leaves viewers with long-lasting impressions. It may not cater to every viewer's taste, but for those who appreciate dark and serious narratives, Lilli serves to be a remarkable film.