Footage review: Saiju Sreedharan’s experimental mystery thriller excels in technical aspects

Saiju Sreedharan’s debut directorial, Footage, has generated significant buzz much before its theatrical release. It is the first Found-Footage feature film in Malayalam cinema.

The trailer built huge anticipation among movie enthusiasts by offering only a brief glimpse of lead actor Manju Warrier. Further, it sets the mood for the movie, hinting at an intriguing plot.

However, while watching the film, one might feel that the core story bears some resemblance to familiar themes.

Footage has elements of a thriller, but what sets it apart is the unique treatment by the filmmaker.

The movie follows a Found-Footage format, with events shown as recorded on two different cameras by a couple who are also YouTubers.

The story begins with the lives of two young content creators and avid travellers, depicted as individuals striving to produce innovative videos on YouTube. Each has a separate channel, although this is not explicitly stated. The couple likes shooting haunted houses in deep forests.

They live in an apartment complex, where they also film their neighbours. One such neighbour is a mysterious character played by Manju Warrier.

Interestingly, none of the characters in Footage are given names, including Manju Warrier’s character. She remains silent throughout the film, leaving it unclear whether she is mute.

The central mystery revolves around Manju Warrier’s character and how the YouTubers attempt to delve into her life. The mystery is eventually revealed at the end, but some questions remain unanswered.

Also Read: Intriguing trailer of Manju Warrier’s Footage released

An experimental script

Footage is a revenge story but the background of Manju Warrier’s character, who seeks revenge, is never fully explored. The involvement of the YouTubers in her life drives the narrative forward, only to realise that they are entangled in a serious situation.

The script, written by Shabha Muhammed and Saiju Sreedharan, is quite experimental. It focuses on the two YouTubers but doesn’t explore their lives.

The script also touches on the themes of moral policing and live-in by showing how the couple’s fate changes when they try to unearth the mystery behind this enigmatic woman.

While the movie impresses as an experimental work, viewers might still wonder about the background of Manju Warrier’s character, who lives alone and remains disconnected from her fellow residents.

Technically brilliant

Footage stands out as an experimental film. In an interview with South First, debutant director Saiju Sreedharan promised that the movie would offer a unique experience. And, he delivers his promise by making a film that is the first of its kind in Malayalam cinema.

The Malayalam movie features many scenes shot with cameras mounted on the actors’s bodies, creating a sense of immersion. The shaky camera work during action scenes adds to the intensity, making the audience feel as though they are part of the action.

Sound design also plays a crucial role, especially in the many night scenes shot in a forest setting.

The cinematography by Shinoz is a major highlight, and Saiju Sreedharan’s editing elevates the film.

The fight scenes between the YouTubers and Manju Warrier’s character towards the end are well-executed.

There are several intimate scenes in the film, making it suitable for viewers aged 18 and above. However, these scenes are integral to the story, which also explores the relationship of a couple.

Also Read: Exclusive interview with Footage director Saiju Sreedharan

Performances

Footage features three major characters played by Manju Warrier, Vishak Nair, and Gayathri Ashok. They deliver strong performances, evident from the physically demanding scenes they undertake.

Manju Warrier does not speak; so her expressions are crucial to conveying her character’s emotions. She also performs action sequences, a role typically reserved for male characters in most films.

Vishak Nair and Gayathri Ashok, as the YouTubers, are commendable. They handle the fight sequences and physical challenges effectively.

Final take

Footage excels as an experimental film, with fine performances from the lead actors, particularly Manju Warrier.

(Views expressed here are personal.)

(Edited by Y Krishna Jyothi)