In the ever-evolving landscape of cinema, where mystery and intrigue intertwine, "Hidimbha" (2023) steps onto the stage as a curious enigma that tantalizes with the promise of uncovering hidden truths. Directed by Aneel Kanneganti, this cinematic endeavor delves into the depths of the human psyche, weaving a tale that oscillates between light and darkness, leaving audiences both intrigued and ultimately unsatisfied.
Plot
Set against the contemporary backdrop of Hyderabad, "Hidimbha" thrusts its audience into a perplexing puzzle. Sixteen young girls, symbols of innocence, vanish into thin air in the year 2023. The narrative unfolds as a seasoned special officer, Aadya (Nandita Swetha), hailing from Kerala, joins forces with the resolute Inspector Abhay (Ashwin Babu) to fathom the depths of this harrowing mystery. Abhay suspects the fingerprints of a local mafia don behind these chilling abductions, but Aadya unearths a disconcerting thread – a common link between the missing girls: they were all adorned in dresses of a vibrant crimson hue. As the investigation progresses, the shadows of the past converge with the present, revealing a sinister tale entwined with a father-son duo from the late 1990s.
Performances
Ashwin Babu's portrayal of Inspector Abhay finds itself relegated to the sidelines for a substantial duration of the film. It is only as the puzzle's pieces start falling into place that his character attains significance, a fact that might render his initial presence seemingly inconsequential. Nandita Swetha's depiction of Aadya is competent, albeit lacking the emotional gravitas essential for the role's depth. Together, their chemistry struggles to ignite the screen. Supporting cast members, including Raghu Kunche and Sanjay Swarup as officers, and Shubaleka Sudakar as the Chief Minister, play their parts without standing out. However, Srinivasa Reddy's talents are underutilized, leaving a sense of potential squandered.
Technical Aspects
The marriage of B Rajasekhar's cinematography and Vikas Badisa's musical compositions disappoints in their failure to evoke the required impact for the film's genre. A thriller, often driven by twists and infused with dark undertones, demands a synergy of visuals and soundscapes that immerse the audience in its world – a synergy that remains unachieved. The editing, helmed by MR Varma, stumbles, particularly in handling the flashbacks of the second half, hampering the overall narrative's flow. Sharmila Yalisetty's art direction, while functional, lacks the distinctiveness that could have elevated the film. Action sequences, jointly choreographed by Real Sathish, Jashuva, and Aneel Kanneganti, miss the mark, failing to ignite the desired adrenaline rush.
Analysis
In "Hidimbha," writer-director Aneel Kanneganti squanders the inherent potential of a compelling storyline, marked by a lackluster execution. The treatment of the narrative lacks finesse, particularly evident in the illogical investigative sequences. The final 25 minutes offer a faint glimmer of redemption, yet the film's shortcomings in performances undermine this potential salvation. The movie grapples with a dearth of defining strengths. The initial half succumbs to cliches and disarray, further exacerbated by an overpowering score and artificial portrayals. Feeble action sequences compound the viewer's disillusionment, ultimately tipping the scales against the film.
Conclusion
"Hidimbha" emerges as an overblown thriller characterized by a scarcity of redeeming features. The narrative's inherent weaknesses overshadow its premise. With an amalgamation of lackluster performances, disjointed execution, and uninspiring technical facets, the film languishes in mediocrity. In summation, "Hidimbha" presents itself as a cinematic offering best avoided.
Hidimbha (2023) - info
- Release date: July 20, 2023
- Genre: Action, Drama
- Director: Aneel Kanneganti
- Writer: Aneel Kanneganti
- Stars: Ashwin Babu, Nandita Shwetha, Sahithi Avancha