Mili (2022), a Hindi-language survival thriller film directed by Mathukutty Xavier, unfolds a gripping tale of resilience and survival. Starring Janhvi Kapoor, Sunny Kaushal, and Manoj Pahwa, the film is a remake of the 2019 Malayalam movie “Helen,” with Mathukutty Xavier at the helm once again.
The story revolves around Mili Naudiyal (Janhvi Kapoor), a B.Sc Nursing graduate with dreams of moving abroad to Canada. However, her aspirations face opposition from her father, Niranjan Naudiyal (Manoj Pahwa), who disapproves of her plans. As Mili juggles IELTS coaching classes and a part-time job at a restaurant, her life takes an unexpected turn.
One night, after an encounter with the police involving her boyfriend Sameer Kumar (Sunny Kaushal), Mili finds herself trapped in a storage freezer at her workplace. The film follows Mili’s desperate struggle for survival as she battles freezing temperatures, isolation, and physical challenges.
The narrative weaves through the efforts of Mili’s father and Sameer, who embark on a frantic search for her when she goes missing. The plot takes unexpected turns as suspicion, police negligence, and a race against time intensify the tension.
Janhvi Kapoor’s portrayal of Mili earned her praise, showcasing her versatility as an actor. The film’s 127-minute runtime keeps audiences on the edge of their seats, immersed in the suspenseful storyline.
The soundtrack, composed by the legendary A. R. Rahman, complements the film’s intensity. Songs like “Sun Aye Mili” and “Tum Bhi Raahi” add emotional depth to Mili’s harrowing journey.
Despite mixed reviews and a lukewarm box office performance, Kapoor’s stellar performance earned her a nomination for the Filmfare Award for Best Actress. The film’s exploration of survival instincts, family dynamics, and the human spirit resonates, making “Mili” a compelling cinematic experience.
Released on 4 November 2022, “Mili” is not just a tale of survival; it’s a testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity. As Mili’s story unfolds, the audience is taken on an emotional rollercoaster, rooting for her resilience and hoping for a triumphant resolution.