Footage, released on August 23, is a Malayalam-language thriller that ventures into the found-footage genre. Directed by Saiju, this film marks his directorial debut after a successful career as a film editor. The movie stars Manju, Vishak, and Gayathri in key roles.
| Movie Title: | Footage |
| Primary Actor: | Manju Warrier |
| Featured Cast: | Gayathri Ashok, Manju Warrier, Vishak Nair |
| Genres Included: | Thriller |
| Directed By: | Saiju Sreedharan |
| Duration: | 2h 4m |
| Production House: | Movie Bucket, Pale Blue Dot Pictures |
| Launch Date: | 23 Aug 2024 |
| Score: | 6/10 |
| Critic’s Rating: | 6/10 |
The film brings a unique cinematic experience to Malayalam cinema, blending suspense with the immersive nature of the found-footage format. With a gripping narrative and engaging performances, it aims to keep the audience on edge throughout its runtime.
Cast Name
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Varsha Ramesh | |
| Bhanumathi Payyanur | |
| Vishak Nair | |
| Kiran Peethambaran | |
| Gayathri Ashok | |
| Manju Warrier |
Plot Overview
Footage follows a city-dwelling couple, played by Vishak Nair and Gayathri Ashok, who run a YouTube channel focused on exploring mysterious locations. Their curiosity leads them to investigate their enigmatic neighbor, portrayed by Manju Warrier. As they dig deeper into her strange behavior, they follow her into a secluded forest, where they uncover terrifying secrets that challenge their perceptions of privacy and security.
Performances
Manju Warrier delivers a compelling and layered performance, keeping the audience guessing about her true motives. Vishak Nair and Gayathri Ashok bring authenticity to their roles as adventurous yet naive vloggers. Their on-screen chemistry adds realism to their dynamic, making their journey believable and engaging.
Direction and Cinematography
Saiju Sreedharan’s transition from editor to director is impressive. He effectively uses the found-footage technique to immerse the audience in the mystery. The handheld, shaky camera work fits the genre well, enhancing the feeling of realism. Cinematographer Shinoz ensures the visual storytelling remains gripping, with eerie lighting and unsettling angles that add to the tension.
Critical Reception
Footage has received a mix of positive and critical reviews. Sanjith Sidhardhan from OTTplay rated it 4 out of 5 stars, praising its immersive experience and tense moments. Rohit Panikker from Times Now also gave it 4 stars, noting its ability to build suspense after a slow start. However, S. R. Praveen from The Hindu felt that while the experimental approach was commendable, the thin screenplay weakened the narrative.
Audiences have appreciated the experimental style and the strong performances of the lead actors. The found-footage approach, though rare in Malayalam cinema, has intrigued viewers, offering a fresh perspective. However, some felt the pacing could have been tighter to maintain the suspense throughout.
Conclusion
Footage is a bold experiment in Malayalam cinema, offering a thrilling and unconventional experience. While it may not be for everyone, it presents a thought-provoking narrative with memorable performances. The film’s exploration of curiosity, privacy, and boundaries lingers in the viewer’s mind, making it a standout entry in the thriller genre.