Kuttram Puthithu is a crime thriller that attempts to tread new ground within a familiar genre. Directed by Nova Armstrong, the film follows a suspenseful investigation set off by the sudden disappearance of a police officer’s daughter. Though she is eventually found alive, what unravels in the aftermath takes the narrative into darker, more unexpected territory. A delivery boy becomes the initial suspect, then released, only to later confess to multiple murders – creating a mystery around his true motives and mental state.
The film maintains an engaging pace for the most part, moving quickly from one revelation to another. It’s clear the director wants to keep the audience guessing, and there are moments where this approach works quite well. The investigation unfolds with twists that keep the tension intact, even as the logic behind certain developments may raise eyebrows.
Performance wise, the cast brings sincerity to their roles. Madhusudan Rao, known mostly for villainous characters, shows surprising depth as a grieving, determined father. His portrayal brings emotional weight to the story. Seshvitha Kanimozhi impresses with her balanced portrayal of a vulnerable yet composed character, while Darun Vijay carries a complex arc that moves from innocence to unsettling ambiguity. There’s also strong support from a relatively lesser-known ensemble, including a chilling portrayal by Ramachandran Durairaj and a composed turn by the female officer on the case.
Technically, Kuttram Puthithu benefits from sharp visuals and an emotionally resonant score. The cinematography creates an effective mood, especially in confined and tense sequences, while the music adds a layer of sentiment without being overbearing.
However, the film does struggle with believability. Some plot turns seem overly convenient, and the use of modern surveillance tech feels underplayed in a setting like Chennai. The climax, while aiming for impact, lacks the punch one expects from a thriller of this nature.
Overall, Kuttram Puthithu is a competently performed and briskly paced mystery that offers engaging moments, though it falls short of a completely satisfying resolution. It’s a bold effort that comes close to succeeding if only it had woven its elements together more cohesively.
Verdict: Engaging thriller with strong performances and occasional narrative slips.