Hit: The First Case ( Thriller /2022 / Hindi /Cinema Release)
Writer/ Director – Sailesh Kolanu
Cast – Rajkummar Rao, Sanya Malhotra, Akhil Iyer, Jatin Goswami, Milind Gunaji
Plot
Vikram is an investigating officer reeling under PTSD and fighting demons from his past.
Neha, his love, is a forensic expert. When she goes missing, he realises that he has to not only find her but also another girl who went missing two months ago and the two cases might be linked.
Analysis
This film is a dark suspense thriller, a genre I love. And having to see an actor like Rajkummar Rao in an intense and grim avatar is a rare treat.
The film begins with an investigation and we get to know Vikram’s expertise of solving cases. Though it was not too detailed but such premise always provides for an engaging watch.
Vikram’s psychological complications had been ably supported by Rajkummar Rao’s acumen as an actor. He, as expected, excels in portraying Vikram’s intense pain, his horrifying memories and his mental trauma.
Sanya, though has limited presence but shines in all her scenes.
Dilip Tahil gives fine support. It was good to see Milind Gunaji after long. But what made me happier was to see Jatin Goswami (as Akshay), albeit in a very small role. Have been a huge admirer of his performance in Babumoshai Bandookbaaz years before. It is disappointing to see actors of his potential being hardly utilised. Shilpa Shukla (as Sheila) fails to make a mark.
The investigations proceed and continue to be superbly engaging. It is always a pleasure to be jumbled up in the cues thrown in and specially when they get more baffling.
The only grouse that I could probably add to give an all rounded review is that the resolution of the case had scope of improvement. It did leave some loose threads in case you get to nitpicking. But that does not discount out the grip the film has over you through out its length. Not for a minute did we feel any lag in pace.
The mystery and Rajkummar Rao keep you thoroughly invested.
The film has two songs and both were melodious, well-worded and added to the feel .
I have not seen the original and I presume that since the writer and director is same, he must have done justice. A actor of Rajkummar Rao’s calibre is added bonus.
Recommendation
It was a good watch. Quite recommended for those who love suspense thrillers and Rajkummar Rao.
Score 3 on 5.