Director Sriram Raghavan, known for his mastery in crafting pitch-dark thrillers, presents “Merry Christmas,” a cinematic journey that delicately balances the unhurried and the urgent, the philosophical and the provocative. Stepping away from the rapid narrative pace of “Andhadhun,” Raghavan navigates the realms of suspense in this dual-version film starring Katrina Kaif and Vijay Sethupathi.
The narrative draws inspiration from Frederic Dard’s crime fiction, “Le Monte-charge,” exploring the intricacies of obsessive love in the Christian community of 1980s Bombay. The film unfolds with an exquisite blend of Hitchcockian twists and Rohmerian moral exploration, making it a gripping experience.
The storyline revolves around Maria (Katrina Kaif) and Albert (Vijay Sethupathi), entwining festivity and enigma within the frames of the residential interiors and cityscapes. The screenplay, rich with scattered clues, unfolds the plot around a woman’s home above a family bakery, adding layers of anticipation and foreboding.
Despite moments of silence and subtle exchanges, the film remains compelling, offering the audience a ringside view of Maria and Albert’s complex relationship. The skilled direction of photography by Madhu Neelakandan enhances the visual appeal, enveloping the frames in magic.
Katrina Kaif delivers one of her most convincing performances, portraying confusion and vulnerability with minimalistic brilliance. Vijay Sethupathi complements her with a captivating portrayal relying on expressions and eyes to convey the storm within.
“Merry Christmas” takes the audience on an inventive cinematic ride, utilizing a nostalgic 1980s Hindi cinema soundscape and evocative color palettes. The film’s characters, including secondary ones, leave a lasting impact, contributing to the marvel of storytelling.
Intriguing, stimulating, and gently challenging, “Merry Christmas” captivates with its bewitching narrative, making it a must-watch thriller that unfolds its mysteries with finesse.