Director - Anand Surapur 
Cast - Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Narayani Shastri, Rajesh Kumar and Atul Tiwari 
Platform – ZEE5
 
"Rautu Ka Raaz" attempts to weave a tale of mystery and intrigue set in the picturesque village of Rautu, Uttarakhand, but ultimately falls short of its ambitious premise. Directed by an unknown director and starring Nawazuddin Siddiqui in the lead role of Deepak Negi, the film promises a blend of suspense and local flavor but struggles to deliver a coherent and engaging narrative.
 
The film opens with a murder in the tranquil village of Rautu, sparking an investigation led by Deepak Negi, played by Nawazuddin Siddiqui. The narrative attempts to build suspense through various twists and turns, hinting at underlying motives and personal vendettas. However, the execution falters as the storyline meanders, failing to maintain a consistent pace or effectively develop its core mystery.
 
The introduction of characters like sub-inspector Naresh Dimri, played by Rajesh Kumar, adds layers to the investigation but does little to propel the plot forward cohesively. The inclusion of peripheral characters like Narayani Shastri and Samridhi Chandola, while performed competently, adds little substance to the overarching narrative.
 
Nawazuddin Siddiqui, known for his intense performances, delivers a nuanced portrayal of Deepak Negi. His attempt at portraying a local police officer navigating personal and professional challenges is commendable, though the script's inconsistencies hinder his ability to fully immerse himself in the role. Rajesh Kumar as Naresh Dimri brings sincerity to his character, showcasing both depth and emotional range that stand out amidst the film's shortcomings.
 
The direction by an unnamed director struggles to maintain a grip on the film's narrative flow. Scenes often feel disjointed, with abrupt shifts in tone and pacing that detract from the suspenseful atmosphere the film attempts to create. The cinematography captures the scenic beauty of Uttarakhand but fails to capitalize on its potential, often appearing shaky and inconsistent in quality.
 
Written by Atul Tiwari, the script of "Rautu Ka Raaz" suffers from predictability and lack of originality. The dialogue, while attempting to add local flavor and authenticity, often feels forced and unnatural. Key plot points and revelations are telegraphed early on, diminishing the impact of the film's supposed twists and turns.
 
"Rautu Ka Raaz" emerges as a disappointing entry in the suspense-thriller genre, despite its initial promise. While Nawazuddin Siddiqui's performance and some atmospheric moments provide glimpses of potential, the film ultimately fails to deliver on its premise. The lack of coherent storytelling, coupled with uneven pacing and underdeveloped characters, leaves viewers wanting more from what could have been a gripping narrative.
 
"Rautu Ka Raaz" struggles to find its footing amidst its own ambitions, resulting in a film that falls short of expectations. Despite the efforts of its talented cast, the film's narrative inconsistencies and lack of depth prevent it from leaving a lasting impression.