Accused Movie Review
Flat and unengaging from start to finish.
Performances
Story & Narration
Technical Aspects & Music
Accused, directed by Prabhu Srinivas, sets out to be a high-stakes thriller that unfolds predominantly on the road, a choice that suggests urgency and intensity. The film follows Udhaya, a convict accused of assassinating a well-connected MLA, as he is transported under heavy tension from Puzhal Central Prison to Salem Sessions Court. Tasked with this sensitive escort mission is Constable Ajmal, a man handpicked by a wary superior officer who suspects betrayal lurking within the force itself.
The setup holds promise – a politically volatile backdrop, a murder mystery, and a dangerous journey filled with ambushes. As Udhaya and Ajmal embark on what should have been a procedural prisoner transfer, the journey turns into a relentless struggle for survival. Carefully planned attacks and internal sabotage transform their path into a battleground, raising questions about loyalty, power, and truth.
However, while the foundation is compelling, the execution is underwhelming. The film suffers from a lack of emotional resonance, making it hard for the audience to invest in the characters or their fate. There’s a certain stiffness to the storytelling, scenes unfold in a predictable, almost mechanical fashion, robbing the narrative of suspense. It’s as if the film goes through the motions without ever digging deeper into its characters or their motivations.
Udhaya’s internal conflict and Ajmal’s sense of duty had the potential to add depth and drama, but both arcs remain underdeveloped. The performances reflect this disconnect, despite the actors’ potential, their portrayals feel surface-level and lack nuance. This emotional hollowness, paired with a screenplay that often feels padded with filler rather than tension-building moments, causes the film to drag in places where it should be gripping.
One moment that does break the monotony is a well-crafted bus action sequence, brought to life by stunt choreographer Silva. This brief adrenaline rush showcases what the film could have been tense, gritty, and grounded in visceral action. But it stands out more because of the dullness surrounding it than its own brilliance.
In the end, Accused feels like a missed opportunity. With a solid concept, the film had every chance to deliver a taut, character-driven thriller. Instead, it settles into a formulaic rhythm, offering little in terms of surprise or emotional impact. What could have been a sharp, suspenseful ride becomes a flat and forgettable journey, leaving viewers unmoved and unconvinced.