When a psychological thriller meets romance, the result is an engaging, thought-provoking film that blends intrigue with human emotions. Starring Farhan Akhtar and Deepika Padukone, set in the bustling city of Mumbai around the mid-2000s, this story is as much about self-discovery as it is about suspense. The plot centers on Karthik Narayan, an introverted, insecure man stuck in a mundane job and struggling to confront his past. The film effortlessly brings the modern-day urban experience to life, combining elements of mystery, suspense, and a touch of romance.
Karthik is an under-confident, timid individual who faces daily challenges at work and in his personal life. His world is small and limiting until one day, he starts receiving mysterious phone calls from someone claiming to be…himself. This “other Karthik” seems to know every detail about his life and begins to advise him on how to live better, be more assertive, and gain the confidence he’s always lacked. As Karthik starts following the advice, his life begins to improve—he’s performing well at work, making bold moves, and even catching the attention of his colleague Shonali, played by Deepika. However, as he relies more on these phone calls, the story twists into darker, unexpected territory, challenging the boundaries of his mind and leaving the audience questioning the reality of these calls.
One of the film’s most remarkable aspects is Farhan Akhtar’s performance. Known for his versatility, he brings both vulnerability and intensity to Karthik, capturing his insecurity, fear, and gradual transformation. Farhan portrays Karthik’s internal struggle so well that it’s hard not to empathize with him even as his life takes a darker turn. His on-screen presence and subtle shifts in expressions lend authenticity to a complex role that demands both restraint and emotional openness. As the plot deepens, Farhan transitions seamlessly from being endearing to unsettling, making his character’s journey all the more captivating. His chemistry with Deepika adds a layer of charm, and their interactions, from awkward conversations to heartfelt moments, contribute depth to the story. Deepika, in her role as Shonali, brings a natural warmth, portraying a confident and independent woman who’s drawn to Karthik’s unassuming nature. Together, they share a dynamic that feels organic, and their evolving relationship grounds the story amid the suspense.
Director Vijay Lalwani has crafted a story that cleverly intertwines psychological elements with a thrilling narrative, keeping the viewer’s attention fixed on Karthik’s journey. Lalwani’s direction takes us deep into the protagonist’s psyche, highlighting his loneliness, self-doubt, and ultimate pursuit of clarity. Each scene serves a purpose, from intimate moments in Karthik’s apartment to the tension-filled phone calls that define the plot. Lalwani balances the suspense with Karthik’s personal growth, allowing the audience to explore the character’s psyche without ever losing sight of the story. By slowly unraveling details and building tension through subtle clues, he ensures that the suspense remains palpable without overwhelming the human element at the heart of the story.
The background score, composed by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, is another strong point. The music complements the mood perfectly, enhancing the film’s intensity without overpowering it. The songs, such as “Uff Teri Ada” and “Kaisi Hai Ye Udaasi,” beautifully capture the essence of Karthik’s experiences. The background score during the suspenseful phone call scenes is particularly effective, adding an eerie feel that heightens the intrigue. The music not only accentuates pivotal moments but also reflects Karthik’s evolving emotional state, making it a subtle yet powerful storytelling tool. The musical arrangement weaves itself seamlessly into the narrative, ensuring that each note and beat resonates with the audience’s emotions, drawing them further into Karthik’s world.
Visually, the film is a treat, thanks to Sanu Varghese’s cinematography. The cinematographer uses shadows, tight angles, and dim lighting to bring out the suspense and tension within Karthik’s life. The film frequently employs low-lit frames to mirror Karthik’s mood and mental state, particularly during his late-night conversations with his mysterious caller. Varghese captures Mumbai’s urban landscape with a gritty, almost haunting quality, making the city feel as much a character as the people within it. The contrast between Karthik’s isolated world and the bustling city around him is captured beautifully, adding depth to the character’s feeling of alienation. Every shot, from the confines of Karthik’s apartment to his solitary walks through the city, is framed with care, creating a visual language that echoes the protagonist’s inner turmoil.
In terms of editing, Aarti Bajaj deserves credit for her crisp, effective cuts that keep the narrative taut. The pacing is controlled yet gripping, allowing suspense to build without any lull. Bajaj’s editing choices during the phone call scenes and Karthik’s moments of introspection are crucial in maintaining a steady pace while highlighting his growing anxiety. The swift transitions between Karthik’s “normal” life and the increasing oddities brought on by the phone calls create an immersive experience, keeping viewers on edge. Bajaj’s skillful editing also ensures that each character moment is impactful, giving emotional resonance to scenes of both joy and dread.
Costume design and art direction contribute to the film’s realistic portrayal of an urban lifestyle. Karthik’s character wardrobe—plain, muted clothing—reflects his unremarkable, introverted personality, while Shonali’s modern, stylish outfits depict her confident, outgoing nature. The apartment settings, with minimalist decor and dim lighting, add to the overall somber feel, creating a physical space that mirrors Karthik’s introverted personality. Each choice, from the character wardrobes to the apartment’s interior, complements the narrative’s themes, adding authenticity and depth to the portrayal of Karthik’s world.
The film’s central theme explores the complexities of mental health, self-acceptance, and identity. As Karthik grapples with the mysterious calls, he is forced to confront his own past, unresolved trauma, and the effects they have had on his life. Through this lens, the movie delves into themes of self-worth and the impact of childhood experiences on adulthood. The narrative cleverly avoids providing simplistic answers, instead portraying the messiness and confusion of mental health struggles. The ambiguity surrounding the calls—whether they are real or a figment of Karthik’s imagination—mirrors the uncertainties many face when dealing with internal conflicts. The film’s exploration of identity and self-doubt is handled with sensitivity, making Karthik’s journey relatable even as it veers into suspenseful territory.
Ultimately, this film stands out for its ambitious attempt to blend psychological suspense with a relatable story of self-discovery. While the film takes creative liberties that may not appeal to everyone, it remains grounded in Farhan’s strong performance and Vijay Lalwani’s focused direction. The suspense builds organically, and the plot’s twists and turns are handled with a level of care that keeps viewers engaged and guessing. For fans of psychological thrillers that explore the human psyche, this film is worth watching. It’s a unique blend of suspense, introspection, and emotion, a story that intrigues and resonates long after the credits roll. The subtle but haunting narrative, combined with a realistic portrayal of mental health challenges, makes it a film that encourages viewers to reflect on identity, resilience, and the mysterious complexity of the mind. Highly recommended for those who appreciate a blend of suspense and emotional depth.
