Review: You're not ready for 'KILL' but you should be!

There isn't much hype about 'KILL' in India yet, and of course, there's a reason. It has been marketed as one of the most violent and goriest films in India, and to their credit, it definitely is. While the West is acquainted with such blood baths and slashing of humans left, right and centre, with the weapons being stabbed into almost any part of the human body, Indian masses won't be able to digest this gore galore with their eyes wide open. And to those of you who don't know, it's a Dharma film, and oh boy! Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine that this would be something I'd get to watch in a film backed by Karan Johar. 

P.S. While I will scream my heart out and urge people to watch the film for its sheer brilliance and execution, it ain't for the faint-hearted.

Plot and Progression

The action starts almost immediately in KILL, directed by Nikhil Nagesh Bhat. Within the first few minutes, the train departs, carrying Captain Amrit (Lakshya Lalwani), his lover Tulika (Tanya Maniktala), and his loyal comrade Viresh (Abhishek Chauhan). The calm is short-lived as a gang of ruthless bandits led by the menacing Fani (Raghav Juyal) begins a violent robbery spree, plunging the narrative into chaos and setting the stage for a relentless, pulse-pounding thriller.

Setting and Screenplay

The film's tightly confined setting—a train with just four coaches—adds to the tension and claustrophobia, making viewers feel as if they are trapped in the same suffocating space as the characters. Bhat's innovative use of this limited space ensures that every scene feels intense and immersive. Cinematographer Rafey Mehmood and editor Shivkumar V. Panicker contribute significantly to this atmosphere, crafting scenes that are both visually striking and emotionally resonant. The film's brisk pace leaves little room for respite, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats throughout its less-than-two-hour runtime.

Top-notch Action and Gore Galore

What sets  KILL apart is its sheer brutality and unflinching depiction of violence. The action sequences are chaotic yet meticulously choreographed, with bodies being flung across seats, windows, floors, and ceilings. Bhat captures the kinetic energy of these scenes with remarkable clarity, ensuring that viewers are never lost in the frenzy. Each punch, kick, and bone-crunching impact is felt viscerally. This auditory assault heightens the intensity of the visuals, creating an all-consuming experience. The stylized action sequences are a highlight, each one more inventive and gruesome than the last. These scenes are not just about physical combat but also about psychological warfare, with characters constantly trying to outsmart each other in a confined space.

Despite the film's focus on action, it doesn't shy away from exploring the emotional and human cost of such violence. Amidst the carnage, moments of grief and loss are portrayed with sincerity, reminding viewers of the real human lives at stake. 

Performances

Lakshya Lalwani shines in his debut as Amrit Rathore, delivering a performance that combines physical prowess with emotional nuance. His transformation from a dashing hero to a relentless fighter is compelling, with his body language conveying a range of emotions with minimal dialogue. Lalwani's ability to switch seamlessly between ruthless combat and tender moments showcases his versatility and marks him as a promising new talent in the industry.

However, it is Raghav Juyal as Fani who truly steals the show. Juyal's portrayal of the heartless sociopath is both chilling and captivating. He brings a sinister charm to the role, balancing moments of dark humor with terrifying menace. His performance is so compelling that it elicits a strong emotional response, making the audience both loathe and fear him. Juyal's ability to dominate the screen with his presence is a testament to his talent, making Fani one of the most memorable villains in recent Indian cinema.

The supporting cast, including Tanya Maniktala, Ashish Vidhyarthi, and Harsh Chhaya, also deliver solid performances, adding depth and authenticity to the story. Maniktala, in particular, brings a sense of vulnerability and strength to Tulika, making her more than just a damsel in distress.

The Verdict

KILL is a visceral experience that pushes the boundaries of action cinema in India. It is unapologetically brutal and relentlessly intense.

****(4/5) stars