Director: Sudipto Sen
Cast: Adah Sharma, Yogita Bihani, Sonia Balani, Siddhi Idnani, Devadarshini, Vijay Krishna, Pranay Pachauri, Pranav Misshra
Rating – 4
 
The Kerala Story" is a gripping and thought-provoking film that takes the audience on an intense journey through the harrowing experiences of a young woman who falls victim to the manipulative tactics of religious extremists. Directed by Sudipto Sen, the movie explores the radicalization of an innocent girl and the devastating consequences it has on her life and those around her.
 
Adah Sharma delivers a standout performance as Shalini/Fatima, showcasing her versatility as an actor. From portraying the naivety of a college girl to the transformation into a brainwashed terrorist, Sharma's portrayal is both nuanced and powerful. Her ability to capture the subtleties of her character's emotional turmoil adds depth to the narrative.
 
Sonia Balani deserves applause for her portrayal of the manipulative Muslim girl who plays a significant role in the radicalization process. Her convincing performance makes the character detestable, effectively conveying the dangers of extremist ideologies.
 
Yogita Bihani and Siddhi Idnani, though with limited screen time, contribute meaningfully to the storyline. Their performances, though secondary, add layers to the overall narrative.
 
The cinematography by Prasantanu Mohapatra deserves special mention, capturing the essence of the Middle East with breathtaking visuals. The decision to shoot in real locations adds authenticity to the storytelling, immersing the audience in the narrative.
 
Sudipto Sen's direction is commendable, infusing the film with a sense of thrill and urgency. The non-linear storytelling keeps the audience engaged, unraveling the story in a compelling manner. The film successfully creates an edge-of-the-seat experience, making it a riveting watch.
 
While the film delves into the dark realities of religious extremism, it is important to note that the writing, helmed by Suryapal Singh, Sudipto Sen, and Vipul Amrutlal Shah, could have benefited from a more balanced approach. Highlighting the negative aspects of one community without portraying the diversity of perspectives within that community may lead to a skewed portrayal.
 
The music and background score by Viresh Sreevalsa and Bishakh Jyoti add to the overall atmosphere, providing the necessary emotional beats.
 
In conclusion, "The Kerala Story" is a thrilling and cautionary tale that sheds light on the dangers of radicalization. Adah Sharma's stellar performance, coupled with Sudipto Sen's deft direction, makes it a must-watch for those interested in thought-provoking cinema. However, a more nuanced and balanced approach in the writing could have elevated the film further.