Movie Review: Martin
Director: A.P. Arjun
Cast: Dhruva Sarja, Vaibhavi Shandilya, Anveshi Jain, Sukrutha Wagle, Achyuth Kumar, Nikitin Dheer
Duration: 144 Minutes
 
Martin centers around the titular character, played by Dhruva Sarja, who finds himself in a precarious situation after being captured on Pakistani soil. With no memory of his past, he’s seen as a dangerous threat. As he fights to escape and reclaim his identity, the film unfolds a narrative steeped in action, amnesia, and patriotism.
 
The film kicks off with a classic hook: "Who is Martin?" As viewers, we’re led to wonder about the duality of Dhruva's character—Arjun Saxena and Martin. While the promotional materials hint at an intriguing exploration of identity, what unfolds is a predictable plot riddled with missed opportunities.
 
Dhruva Sarja’s commitment is palpable, as he appears on screen for nearly the entire runtime. However, this heavy reliance on a single actor begins to wear thin. While it’s a bold choice to have him portray both the hero and the antagonist, the execution lacks depth. The initial scenes showcase him in a growling, feral state, thanks to the drugs affecting his character, but the narrative quickly shifts into more familiar territory, leading to an underwhelming second half.
 
The reveal of Martin’s true identity could have been a thrilling twist, but instead, it feels rushed and lacks the dramatic impact one might expect. The film tries to introduce a redemption arc for the villain, which, while admirable, undermines the tension built earlier.
 
Supporting characters, including Vaibhavi Shandilya and Anveshi Jain, are given minimal screen time, adding little to the overall narrative. The music by Mani Sharma is forgettable, and the background score by Ravi Basrur fails to elevate the film’s emotional stakes. The item number, featuring Giorgia Andrani, feels more like a distraction than an enhancement to the story.
 
Perhaps the most disappointing aspect of Martin is its visual presentation. The special effects are subpar, often jarring, and detract from what could have been thrilling action sequences. The fight scenes, especially the Dhruva vs. Dhruva showdown, suffer from clunky graphics that ruin the suspense and excitement.
 
Martin ultimately feels like a squandered opportunity. The concept of Dhruva Sarja facing off against himself could have led to a gripping narrative, but instead, we’re left with a formulaic plot that drags on for far too long. The film may cater to dedicated fans of the actor, but for general audiences, it’s a cautionary tale about overambitious storytelling that falls flat.
 
In a crowded Diwali lineup, Martin may not shine as brightly as its competitors. It’s a lengthy sensory experience that evokes more confusion than exhilaration. For those seeking fresh narratives or innovative action, this one might be best skipped.