Sookshmadarshini review: A playful peek that turns into mind-bending mystery

Malayalam cinema continues to prove its mastery in storytelling, with 'Sookshmadarshini' adding another feather to its cap in 2024. Directed by Jithin MC and featuring Nazriya Nazim and Basil Joseph in pivotal roles, this suspense-filled thriller skillfully blends local sensibilities with universal themes, creating a cinematic experience that's both engaging and fresh.

Set in a semi-urban neighbourhood near Kottayam, 'Sookshmadarshini' introduces us to Priyadarshini, or Priya (Nazriya Nazim), a homemaker yearning for purpose beyond her routine life. Married to Antony (Deepak Parambol) and mother to a young daughter, Priya's curiosity knows no bounds. Her inquisitive nature leads her to observe Manuel (Basil Joseph), her enigmatic new neighbour who moves in with his ailing mother. When Manuel's mother mysteriously disappears, Priya's casual snooping escalates into a full-blown investigation, setting the stage for a riveting narrative.

In 'Sookshmadarshini,' visual storytelling takes centre stage, with windows playing an intriguing role in shaping the narrative. A circular window, vividly coated in bright colours and perched high on the wall, becomes a symbol of curiosity and mystery. Priya’s determination to peek through this window—climbing onto a chair to reach it—parallels her relentless quest to uncover the secrets in her seemingly mundane world. 

What sets 'Sookshmadarshini' apart is its ability to derive tension from the ordinary. Priya’s perspective as a homemaker forms the lens through which we experience the story. From the playful exchanges in her WhatsApp group to the small-town dynamics of low compound walls and visible lives, every detail adds to the authenticity. This familiarity is juxtaposed with Manuel's guarded demeanour, creating an air of intrigue that deepens as the story unfolds.

'Sookshmadarshini' does a great job of showing Priya as a real person with flaws and instincts that shape the story. Priya's sharp intellect and resourcefulness are woven seamlessly into the story. Early on, she exposes her husband’s lie about spilled milk with nonchalant precision and retrieves her nosepin from a sink using nothing but double-sided tape. These moments highlight her keen observational skills, which later become crucial in her battle of wits with Manuel. 

Nazriya Nazim, making her much-awaited return to Malayalam cinema after four years, delivers a performance that’s both lively and nuanced. Her Priya is bubbly yet determined, embodying a mix of youthful curiosity and mature resolve. Basil Joseph surprises with his portrayal of Manuel, a character layered with charm, mystery, and menace. The dynamic between Priya and Manuel is a cat-and-mouse game that keeps the audience guessing, with both actors skillfully balancing humour, tension, and suspense.

While the film evokes comparisons to classics like Alfred Hitchcock’s ‘Rear Window’ and the Netflix series ‘The Woman in the House Across the Street from the Girl in the Window’, it firmly grounds itself in the Malayali environment. Writers Libin TB and Athul Ramachandran infuse the script with relatable cultural elements, turning nosy neighbours and community gossip into integral plot devices. Who knew nosy neighbours could be blessings in disguise?

The screenplay is a masterclass in pacing and unpredictability. Just when you think you have the plot figured out, the story takes an unexpected turn, keeping you engrossed until the very end. Every seemingly mundane moment is later revealed to hold significance, culminating in a climax where every puzzle piece falls perfectly into place.

Sharan Velayudhan Nair’s cinematography captures the essence of the setting beautifully, while Chaman Chakko’s sharp editing ensures there’s never a dull moment. Christo Xavier’s music deserves special mention; its pulsating beats heighten the tension without overpowering the narrative. The use of sound to underscore Priya’s growing suspicions and Manuel’s cryptic behaviour adds an additional layer of depth to the storytelling.

For those seeking a suspenseful yet relatable cinematic experience, this movie is a must-watch.

Rating: 3.5/5