‘Diary’ (2022) - Detailed Review

Cast & Crew 

Directed by: Innasi Pandiyan

Written by: Innasi Pandiyan

Produced by: S. Kathiresan

Starring: Arulnithi, Pavithra Marimuthu

Cinematography: Aravinnd Singh

Edited by: S. P. Raja Sethupathi

Music by: Ron Ethan Yohann

Production Company: Five Star Creations LLP

Distributed by: Red Giant Movies

Release Date: 26 August 2022

Running Time: 132 minutes

Country: India

Language: Tamil

Plot Summary:

Varadhan Annadurai, a newcomer to the police force, is tasked with solving the unsolved murder case of a newlywed couple who were killed during their honeymoon in Ooty. As Varadhan delves into the case, he encounters numerous mysteries and unexpected events that challenge his resolve and impact his life profoundly. The film follows his journey to uncover the truth behind the murders and how the case affects him personally.

Performance:

Arulnithi: Delivers a standout performance as Varadhan Annadurai, portraying the character's determination and vulnerability with great skill.

Pavithra Marimuthu: Complements Arulnithi well, adding depth to the narrative with her performance.

Supporting Cast: All the supporting actors enhance the film, contributing to the overall suspense and drama.

Technical Aspects:

Direction: Innasi Pandiyan has done a commendable job in weaving a gripping narrative filled with suspense and unexpected twists.

Cinematography: Aravinnd Singh’s work is visually engaging, capturing the eerie and mysterious atmosphere of the film effectively.

Editing: S. P. Raja Sethupathi's editing maintains the film’s pace, keeping the audience hooked throughout.

Music: Ron Ethan Yohann's score adds to the tension and mood, though it could have been more impactful with additional horror elements.

Strengths:

Story and Screenplay: The plot is well-crafted, with a tight screenplay that keeps the suspense alive.

Performances: Strong performances by the lead and supporting cast.

Direction and Cinematography: Effective direction and visually engaging cinematography.

Weaknesses:

Lack of Horror Elements: Adding more horror elements could have enhanced the film’s impact and appeal to a broader audience.

Pacing: While generally well-paced, there are moments where the narrative could have been tighter.

My Personal Take on This Film:

"Diary" is a gripping thriller that successfully keeps the audience engaged with its intriguing plot and strong performances. Arulnithi shines in his role, bringing depth and intensity to his character. The film’s direction, cinematography, and music all contribute to creating a suspenseful and eerie atmosphere.

However, the addition of more horror elements could have elevated the film further. Despite this, "Diary" stands out as a compelling watch for thriller enthusiasts. The film does a great job of maintaining suspense and delivering unexpected twists that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

Overall, "Diary" is a well-executed thriller with a strong narrative and commendable performances, making it a treat for fans of the genre.

Rating: 3.5/5