In the mysterious realm of “Devil,” lives collide after a fateful encounter on the road between Hema and Arun. Their story, directed by Aathityaa, unravels layer by layer, revealing hidden complexities beneath the surface.
As the tale unfolds, the movie strikes a balance between familiar and unique elements. Rather than relying on excessive dialogue, “Devil” opts for a more visual narrative, with cinematographer Karthik Muthukumar skillfully capturing the eerie atmosphere and impending suspense.
However, the movie grapples with its genre ambitions, attempting to blend thriller, drama, and horror. The horror elements, at times, feel shoehorned for shock value, disrupting the narrative flow. While the second half gains momentum, certain stretches seem inserted solely for sensational impact.
“Devil” weaves together various themes, creating a tapestry of drama, horror, and thriller. Despite an intriguing start with a Shakespearean quote, the film struggles to live up to its initial promise.
The musical backdrop by Mysskin complements the tone, but some songs lack purpose, contributing to an uneven musical journey. The film delves into characters dealing with “mommy issues” and showcases self-reliant women expected to shoulder maternal responsibilities for their partners.
A standout element is Poorna’s subtle and compelling performance, injecting conviction into even the most seemingly baseless scenes. Yet, the film falls short of fully realizing its potential, leaving viewers with a mixed bag of emotions.
In the end, “Devil” is a journey through the enigmatic corridors of human connection, filled with suspense, drama, and a touch of horror. While it has moments of brilliance, the film’s attempt to navigate multiple genres may leave some yearning for a more cohesive storytelling experience.