A Unique Thriller That Struggles with Pacing
Synopsis:
When a puppy is killed in a hit-and-run, the mother dog seeks justice with the help of a once-famous lawyer.
Review:
Kooran, directed by Nithin Vemupati, stands out as a thriller due to its unusual plotline and unique premise. The film delves into the emotional bond between a mother dog and a lawyer, which, at first glance, might sound far-fetched. Yet, the narrative, though slow and occasionally awkward, is undeniably captivating for its innovative approach. Set against the backdrop of Kodaikanal, the story begins when a puppy is killed in a hit-and-run accident. The mother dog, determined to seek justice, reaches out to Dharmaraj (played by SA Chandrasekaran), a once-reputed lawyer with a very unique and symbolic approach to seeking justice.
A Unique Story with Engaging Ideas:
One of the key strengths of Kooran lies in its intriguing premise. The questions raised throughout the movie are compelling – How can a dog testify in court? How can a blind man assist the dog in seeking justice? The beauty of the film lies in the answers that slowly unfold, often in unexpected ways. For instance, the dog recalls the exact date of the tragic incident, sparking curiosity about how this is even possible, yet the film delivers its explanations in a way that keeps the audience engaged. These twists and answers contribute significantly to the overall appeal of the film, maintaining a strong emotional connection with the viewers.
Where the Film Struggles:
Despite its strong plot, Kooran falters when it comes to its pacing. The screenplay often feels dragged out, especially during moments that could have heightened the tension. For example, in typical courtroom thrillers, one would expect the lawyer to carefully uncover clues or for an opposing lawyer to expose loopholes in the investigation, thereby building tension. Instead, many of the clues in Kooran appear randomly or too conveniently. In one scene, Dharmaraj, after praying in a church, unexpectedly bumps into a witness right outside, who attributes their meeting to divine intervention. While the filmmakers might justify this as a cinematic liberty, such moments detract from the suspense and tension that could have been built.
Additionally, there are some sequences involving Dharmaraj’s physical abilities that feel unrealistic and forced. In one instance, he chases a car across the hilly terrains of Kodaikanal without breaking a sweat, which feels jarring in a film otherwise grounded in emotional realism.
Performances:
While the supporting cast, including actors like YG Mahendran, Balaji Sakthivel, and George Mariyan, provide solid performances, it’s SA Chandrasekaran who brings life to the character of Dharmaraj. His portrayal of a once-great lawyer trying to navigate the complexities of this unusual case is compelling. However, the true star of Kooran is the mother dog. The way the dog’s emotions are conveyed, especially through the use of music, adds an emotional depth that drives the heart of the film. The unique role played by the dog in the investigation and her emotional journey provides the film with an added layer of poignancy.
Direction and Cinematography:
Director Nithin Vemupati’s work in Kooran is commendable, as he crafts an engaging storyline with creative twists and a strong moral message. However, the slow pace and some implausible plot devices undermine the film’s potential. The cinematography, especially capturing the serene landscapes of Kodaikanal, adds a beautiful layer to the film, but it often contrasts with the slow unfolding of the narrative, making it feel more like a filler than a pace-setting tool.
Music and Emotional Impact:
The music in Kooran serves as an emotional anchor, especially when conveying the dog’s internal struggles and feelings. The ability to evoke empathy for the dog, a non-human character, is one of the film’s most remarkable achievements. The soundtrack underscores pivotal moments and enhances the emotional undertones of the film, especially in scenes where the dog’s bond with the lawyer becomes more poignant.
Final Verdict:
Kooran is a one-of-a-kind thriller that brings a fresh perspective to the genre. It successfully blends emotional depth with an intriguing narrative. However, its slow pacing, unrealistic sequences, and occasionally forced plot devices hold it back from reaching its full potential. For those who appreciate unique stories and don’t mind a slower burn, Kooran offers a touching and thought-provoking experience.
Short Verdict Quote:
A unique thriller with heart, but hindered by pacing issues and some implausible moments.
