107 reviews
It is really appreciated that "Andhaghaaram" opts for psychological suspense, ignoring the special effects, jump scares that have become a fashion in recent times. A clever, riveting supernatural, part psychological drama that fits many genres into one film which pays off in the end. Disguised as a "Supernatural" film but this is actually a revenge driven drama towards the end with frequent character shifts that are fast. The film blurs the lines between reality & fiction to deliver a psychological shock & that will someday have the respect it truly deserves. It does not register or decipher what is happening but follows imaginary stimuli. In this way, reality, and fiction merge, they can no longer be differentiated. Darkness is a popular film element, and it comes across as striking.
If one releases oneself from the expectation that there must be a 'thrill' behind the gripping opening where a patient pulls trigger on Dr Indran (Kumar Natarajan) and series of suicide follows. There are no questions left on closer observation when the final title begins. In addition to the quality of the content, there is a formal implementation that works on the story in the smallest detail right from the beginning till the credits roll. And then, we are introduced to Selvam (Vinoth Kishan), a blind librarian, a MEDIATOR helping people in the library whose roots hold a mysterious past. Then we meet Vinod (Arjun Das) a cricket coach who lives in a flat. Unfortunately, things are not going well in his life and there is a sense of guilt that prevails. It is difficult for him to cope with the death of his best friend. The room where he stays is a great setting and at the same time a reflection of his conflicts and unstable character. The environment creates eerie shadows from which indefinable noises emerge all the more clearly in later part of the film. He has a landline to communicate with the outer world and like a puzzle rummaging in the streets for smoke breaks that doesn't look like one at first. And then there is this stranger who keeps calling him to his landline number. Vinod goes crazy because he thinks he is tapped or blackmailed. From then on, Vinod hears strange noises, voices and rumbling in his house. It brings him to the brink of a nervous breakdown. The strange occurrences lead him to believe that there is a psychological problem, and he is advised to fix an appointment with a psychiatrist. Having someone unknown call you and never being able to find them with this as the backdrop the film introduces more threads in the screenplay.
What follows is a great mystery and I asked myself whether this topic of Darkness vs Light could fill an entire film. After all, the tension had to be maintained for nearly 3 Hrs and I think the film does that quite cleverly, but it takes some time to get going.
On the other hand, the film convinces with a dense atmosphere and good camera work that shuttles back and forth between flashbacks during the narrative. Still, "Andhaghaaram " is a very interesting film, which is not entirely conclusive and leaves few questions. It almost looks like a cinematic experiment in genre crossover. If you like horror films to be clear and unambiguous, you won't have much fun here. Anyone who loves suspense and supernatural horror will be in good hands in this film. Kudos to the entire team of Andhaghaaram for this indie gem.
If one releases oneself from the expectation that there must be a 'thrill' behind the gripping opening where a patient pulls trigger on Dr Indran (Kumar Natarajan) and series of suicide follows. There are no questions left on closer observation when the final title begins. In addition to the quality of the content, there is a formal implementation that works on the story in the smallest detail right from the beginning till the credits roll. And then, we are introduced to Selvam (Vinoth Kishan), a blind librarian, a MEDIATOR helping people in the library whose roots hold a mysterious past. Then we meet Vinod (Arjun Das) a cricket coach who lives in a flat. Unfortunately, things are not going well in his life and there is a sense of guilt that prevails. It is difficult for him to cope with the death of his best friend. The room where he stays is a great setting and at the same time a reflection of his conflicts and unstable character. The environment creates eerie shadows from which indefinable noises emerge all the more clearly in later part of the film. He has a landline to communicate with the outer world and like a puzzle rummaging in the streets for smoke breaks that doesn't look like one at first. And then there is this stranger who keeps calling him to his landline number. Vinod goes crazy because he thinks he is tapped or blackmailed. From then on, Vinod hears strange noises, voices and rumbling in his house. It brings him to the brink of a nervous breakdown. The strange occurrences lead him to believe that there is a psychological problem, and he is advised to fix an appointment with a psychiatrist. Having someone unknown call you and never being able to find them with this as the backdrop the film introduces more threads in the screenplay.
What follows is a great mystery and I asked myself whether this topic of Darkness vs Light could fill an entire film. After all, the tension had to be maintained for nearly 3 Hrs and I think the film does that quite cleverly, but it takes some time to get going.
On the other hand, the film convinces with a dense atmosphere and good camera work that shuttles back and forth between flashbacks during the narrative. Still, "Andhaghaaram " is a very interesting film, which is not entirely conclusive and leaves few questions. It almost looks like a cinematic experiment in genre crossover. If you like horror films to be clear and unambiguous, you won't have much fun here. Anyone who loves suspense and supernatural horror will be in good hands in this film. Kudos to the entire team of Andhaghaaram for this indie gem.
I would have given it a 8 but the movie really drags in some parts and at least 45 mins can be chopped off. Lot of movies released on OTT due to Covid but most of them I felt would have not added any value on going to screen but this one was an exception. This movie definitely lost big time because of an OTT release, would have been a blockbuster if it had, had a theatre release. Extremely good cinematography and effects which create a scary effect without the usual tropes. Original but quite complicated screenplay which felt rushed at the end. Arjun Das did go overboard in some scenes but the actor playing blind guy was perfect.
A part 2 is most welcome as some questions still remain open in this movie.
- harineem-209-525488
- Jan 9, 2021
- Permalink
I am writing this about an hour into the movie. It has an intriguing dark premise and has not been predictable so far. Thankfully, the movie is also without gimmicks and excessive melodrama so far. The actors have acted well and fit their parts. Hoping that it gets better.
Update: The second half gets a bit tiring and at places convoluted. Could have been edited by around 20 minutes and the big reveal could have been more effectively explained. Watchable but the second half pulls it down.
Update: The second half gets a bit tiring and at places convoluted. Could have been edited by around 20 minutes and the big reveal could have been more effectively explained. Watchable but the second half pulls it down.
- nevermind_87
- Nov 22, 2020
- Permalink
Pros:
* gripping narration
* Very good cinematography and editing
* Extreme care in technical aspects
* Strong script, interesting story
Cons: ~ seems slow at times(but its worth the wait)
This movie reminded me of classic highly reputed hollywood movie "Memento" for the narration style. To take a simple story like this, and elevate the aspects by changing the screenplay, editing is really risky and the director deserves standing ovation for this.
Although the Movie seems stretched, at the end, i dont feel like there is any unnecessary scene. Every scene has some vital role in bringing it closer to the climax(and trying to make sense of the ending).
I am fascinated with this movie as lately its been extremely rare to find a movie on streaming services that can impress as much like the big movies. Also it doesn't try to include too much sounds and thrills to make it sound like a horror movie. I really appreciate the way they handled it.
Please do watch it and enjoy! I would say it's a must watch for thrill seekers. :)
Thanks.
Cons: ~ seems slow at times(but its worth the wait)
This movie reminded me of classic highly reputed hollywood movie "Memento" for the narration style. To take a simple story like this, and elevate the aspects by changing the screenplay, editing is really risky and the director deserves standing ovation for this.
Although the Movie seems stretched, at the end, i dont feel like there is any unnecessary scene. Every scene has some vital role in bringing it closer to the climax(and trying to make sense of the ending).
I am fascinated with this movie as lately its been extremely rare to find a movie on streaming services that can impress as much like the big movies. Also it doesn't try to include too much sounds and thrills to make it sound like a horror movie. I really appreciate the way they handled it.
Please do watch it and enjoy! I would say it's a must watch for thrill seekers. :)
Thanks.
- sudheerparimi
- Nov 24, 2020
- Permalink
Felt like watching a DC movie in Tamil. Runtime may appear to be a bit long. But if you sit tight and get through the first hour, it'll be an unforgettable movie. Wise choice of actors. Specially Arjun Pooja and and Vinod Kishan. Just loved the movie.
The genres like horror, fantasy, and supernatural looks illogical in many aspects of its growth rather than any other genres were cinema took the content, I had also felt such kind of repulsion from those subjects. Here Andhaghaaram also connects with the above-pointed idea. But what admire about the movie rather than its subject is the well-locked and handled way of making and detailing. I prefer this film (for the film buffs and novices) as a study material associated with how can be detailing works in a film? For a thriller subject detailing is essential especially in the case of the art property, costume, and even in make-up but how it must be managed is the biggest question that stood in front of us. The detailing of numbers, the braille scribblings, and even everything surround the film feels fresh and transparent. I'm talking about the art detailing of the movie. The construction of (Vinod's) room, the properties assembles there even the end portion of cigarettes have something more to tell in the storyline. Apart from detailing I must say the brilliant cinematography work especially the lighting. The plot is good in the sense of a horror film lover or comparing with other horrors/supernatural products but for me, the technical section deserves big applause more than that.
- sudhakaranakhilan
- Dec 5, 2020
- Permalink
This was a surprising movie and the things that are good in this film are just about quintessential to any movie, but here it has been packaged really well. The acting, script, screenplay. 3 most important factor which was beyond expectations
The premise is rather simple, a backstory of what everyone does and gives you a sense of belonging in the movie. The protagonist portrays to be connected in different aspects although they keep the dark part hidden. Arjun Das has done a phenomenal performance in this and he aces every frame he is in. May it be a deranged man, a coach, a medium,,, he is very very convincing and makes you want to watch over and over.
The blind character played by Vinod Kishan is equally good if not better in few occasions. His portrayal of medium is spot on and he does it so casually with no frills it is very believable.
The director has taken his time to sculpt the characters, which may not be a preferred tone for many, it seems slow in that sense as every minor detail is given a due consideration. However I loved it as it gives you the involvement and who are you rooting for in the movie.
Any horror movie, mostly relies on jump scares and a one off appearance of the ghoul. The story mostly takes a backseat, not in this one though. The characters have a story and the connection is the very base of the movie for almost 80% of it. So you have to watch this in one sitting to truly enjoy the journey
Almost 50% of the movie you will piecing the puzzle together, but your presence is also a very important factor to understand the puzzle even more. So sometimes you may feel frustrated but like i said the movie being a slow burn will start twisting the tension higher with every scene. And its not a sudden release at the end as well. The director has taken adequate time to slowly unwind the mystery. Brilliant effort!!
Aside the pace of the movie which may not seem fit for everyone, this is one horror movie which does not have jump scares and relies on logic to move the movie forward. A shout out to the sound engineer who has done a phenomenal job in keeping us at the edge of our seats
Andhaghaaram (lack of light) does not lack anything to be skipped from watched. It is a wholesome movie with brilliant performances which will remain in your memory for a long time.
The premise is rather simple, a backstory of what everyone does and gives you a sense of belonging in the movie. The protagonist portrays to be connected in different aspects although they keep the dark part hidden. Arjun Das has done a phenomenal performance in this and he aces every frame he is in. May it be a deranged man, a coach, a medium,,, he is very very convincing and makes you want to watch over and over.
The blind character played by Vinod Kishan is equally good if not better in few occasions. His portrayal of medium is spot on and he does it so casually with no frills it is very believable.
The director has taken his time to sculpt the characters, which may not be a preferred tone for many, it seems slow in that sense as every minor detail is given a due consideration. However I loved it as it gives you the involvement and who are you rooting for in the movie.
Any horror movie, mostly relies on jump scares and a one off appearance of the ghoul. The story mostly takes a backseat, not in this one though. The characters have a story and the connection is the very base of the movie for almost 80% of it. So you have to watch this in one sitting to truly enjoy the journey
Almost 50% of the movie you will piecing the puzzle together, but your presence is also a very important factor to understand the puzzle even more. So sometimes you may feel frustrated but like i said the movie being a slow burn will start twisting the tension higher with every scene. And its not a sudden release at the end as well. The director has taken adequate time to slowly unwind the mystery. Brilliant effort!!
Aside the pace of the movie which may not seem fit for everyone, this is one horror movie which does not have jump scares and relies on logic to move the movie forward. A shout out to the sound engineer who has done a phenomenal job in keeping us at the edge of our seats
Andhaghaaram (lack of light) does not lack anything to be skipped from watched. It is a wholesome movie with brilliant performances which will remain in your memory for a long time.
- bartom-612-185848
- Mar 13, 2022
- Permalink
- shefali-59244
- Nov 24, 2020
- Permalink
Andhaghaaram is a new attempt in Tamil cinema that brings hope to the genre's scope in the industry after a series of awful films. It doesn't provide much jump-scare moments but sets up a scary mood. I am not revealing much about the plot since it might become a spoiler. To be honest it is difficult talking about the basic plot without giving out a bit spoiler.
Vinoth Kishan has given a fantastic performance but Arjun Das just steals all our attention. Other actors have done the role given to them perfectly. Technically the film is just spectacular. Edwin's clean cinematography, Pradeep Kumar's terrific music, and Sathyaraj Natarajan's sharp editing take the mood to another level. Some ordinary scenes are given an epic treatment which gives us an edge of the seat viewing experience. The plot structure is interesting and the immense attention given to details deserves applause.
I wished the film was a bit shorter or some portion could have been trimmed off since the film is about 3 hours long and at the end of it the payoff became so simple and predictable. The ambiguity which steered the film this long could be guessed in the climax. A shorter treatment would have helped. But that doesn't mean the film gets boring. If you are fine with lengthy films which engulf you into its world then the length will never be a problem. But I felt the climax was short of creativity.
Overall I wouldn't say Andhaghaaram is a must-watch but you can give it a try if you fan of a supernatural mystery genre. Don't expect any jumpscares. If you like experimenting with new kinds of films I'm sure Andhaghaaram won't disappoint you.
- harikrishnan_88
- Nov 23, 2020
- Permalink
Its been really long time a movie withheld its crucial plot for such a long period. The movie is dark and gritty and its actors excel in every turn to keep it nail biting. The music , cinematography worked pretty well. Selvam ( Vinod Kisan) character was top notch and Vinod (Arjun Das) character was top class as well.
Both leads , Vinod and Arjun have acted with such dedication.. Kudos..
Only thing was both female character were confusing at times because of similar facial features. Pooja played her part very good.
Its one of the kind movie in tamil cinema where you start watching the movie without much expectation and by the time the movie gets over , you are stuck to it and keep wondering in awe..
Its one of the kind movie in tamil cinema where you start watching the movie without much expectation and by the time the movie gets over , you are stuck to it and keep wondering in awe..
- naveen_reloaded
- Jan 30, 2021
- Permalink
The film delivers a decent supernatural thriller experience, with commendable technical values and high production standards. While the runtime might seem lengthy for a film, viewing it as a mini-series enhances the overall enjoyment. There are no major complaints regarding the quality of the film.
The technical aspects of the film, such as cinematography and sound design, are well-executed, adding to the immersive experience. The production values are noteworthy, creating a visually appealing and immersive world for the story to unfold.
Although the film may have a longer duration, it is well-suited for those who appreciate the depth and intricacies of a mini-series format. The engaging narrative and well-crafted plot keep the audience invested throughout.
In summary, the film offers a satisfying supernatural thriller experience, backed by solid technical values and impressive production standards. Considering it as a mini-series enhances the viewing experience, and there are no major drawbacks to complain about.
The technical aspects of the film, such as cinematography and sound design, are well-executed, adding to the immersive experience. The production values are noteworthy, creating a visually appealing and immersive world for the story to unfold.
Although the film may have a longer duration, it is well-suited for those who appreciate the depth and intricacies of a mini-series format. The engaging narrative and well-crafted plot keep the audience invested throughout.
In summary, the film offers a satisfying supernatural thriller experience, backed by solid technical values and impressive production standards. Considering it as a mini-series enhances the viewing experience, and there are no major drawbacks to complain about.
- best-review
- Nov 23, 2020
- Permalink
It remains me a screen play of dark series we can also do that thing proof here unique story, dark premise,if miss one frame u should rewind worth watching
- mahenthiraprabu
- Nov 23, 2020
- Permalink
The movie should have started with a note - "For better experience use headphones". The sound design and editing was amazing right from the scene they show a blood drop. But, there are some aspects of the film which looks like the film is set in the 90s. It was that hard to accept the retro landline fact, and manual call list, internet centers. The movie goes on and on, like 3 parallel stories, only to connect and surprise you. Vinoth and Arjun Das were best in their roles. Credits to the dialogue that makes you pity for Vinod. One of the best performances and writing with minimal characters. You would like it if you like slow burn movies!!
- sriramthestranger
- Nov 24, 2020
- Permalink
Complete movie is off, poorly written script. Nothing will make not sense, too much of patch multiple story naration but not properly focused on subject, many time you feel like what is actually happening.
I feel it would have been a great movie with clear story with proper depth, Amazing direction, cinematography and sound acting superb.
I feel it would have been a great movie with clear story with proper depth, Amazing direction, cinematography and sound acting superb.
- aryanebert
- Nov 25, 2020
- Permalink
Brilliantly written non linear script, only flaw that I could find is casting of pooja Ramachandran as elder sister should have choosed someone with older look and finally this movie is better than the most of the cheap action flicks in recent Tamil cinema.
- vicky-10862
- Nov 25, 2020
- Permalink
A complete supernatural thriller after a long long long time... hats off to the team... truly this movie is like meeting a lion inside it's own cage... direction and cinematography mind blowing... awesome movie thanks a lot for a good entertainer... waiting to see more future projects from this amazing team... 👏👏👏
The standard of Tamil cinema will rise from now on from the so called masala flicks to the mind engaging movies. I have watched it like a hollywood movie. Really brilliantly made. Planning to watch it again. All actors had lived into the characters...even a minor charactor had never let us down. Hats of the the full team
Pros - Acting , Different plot , music , non linear screenplay , twisted climax
Cons - length of the movie ,
Verdict- According to me .. different from usual Tamil mysteries, one time watchable ( due to length ) , lots of terrific scenes , good movie
Cons - length of the movie ,
Verdict- According to me .. different from usual Tamil mysteries, one time watchable ( due to length ) , lots of terrific scenes , good movie
- speilbergarun
- Nov 23, 2020
- Permalink
A great effort but as everyone says the run time is little long it is the only negative point of the movie but the story and the screenplay and the acting was great arjun das killed it . A must watch movie and a new type of story.
- tsvishalshyam
- Nov 27, 2020
- Permalink
Good Movie. Everybody acted well in the movie. Songs were not needed in the movie. BGM was good in the movie. The movie was not so interesting or thrilling at 1st half. The movie was so interesting or thrilling at 2nd half. The movie was lengthy. The movie bored and lagged at many scenes. Good Movie.
- santhosh-10290
- Nov 24, 2020
- Permalink
First of all it's almost looks like an A24 thriller with left field visual and mystery growing with respect to time. Well written characters and lame less narration. Kudos to director and producer for presentin a non compromised cinema.
- hariprasath-52305
- Nov 23, 2020
- Permalink
Package of HURROR,THRILLER, MYSTERY....EVEVRYTHING...
EVERY DOUBT WE HAVE AT THE BEGGINING WE'LL GET THE CLEAR CLARIFICATION AT THE END🔥..TWIST💥
- sunilkumarkambham-91103
- Nov 23, 2020
- Permalink
The only thing that works it the cinematography and lead actors' acting and that's the end of it. Poorly written half-baked script which is neither supernatural, neither thriller, nor psychological. The supernatural angle is rather hilarious and made no sense to the plot built in initial two hours.
Had high hopes because of the reviews but a truly terrible movie. Not recommended for any serious movie lover.
Had high hopes because of the reviews but a truly terrible movie. Not recommended for any serious movie lover.
- singhprerna3
- Dec 2, 2020
- Permalink
Pefrection from the movie Title Andhaghaaram (darkness, absence of light) . Quote (Devil is in the details ), execution and hardwark of all departments for almost 5 years has given a top notch thriller from a Debut director Vignarajan.
My advise for any movie lovers to watch this mvoie with patience without pause and forards. Most importantly use headphones to enjoy the thrill and background music.
My advise for any movie lovers to watch this mvoie with patience without pause and forards. Most importantly use headphones to enjoy the thrill and background music.
A must watch supernatural thriller. A very well written & twisted screenplay.
Andhaghaaram is a slow burn type movie that goes from the beginning to end in a slow paced manner but keeps you gripped till the end because of the tight and complex screenplay from V. Vignarajan.
The story follows Vinod, a depressed cricketer; Selvam, a blind librarian and Dr. Indran, a former psychiatrist. As the story continues to unravel the mystery, we are drawn into the dark and supernatural world that director has created.
The performances of each and every character is mind blowing. Technically this thriller is a treat, it is strikingly different from the usual thriller "effects" and yet is as intense as it can get.
Finally Andhagaaram is a unique film in this genre which makes it a must watch.
Andhaghaaram is a slow burn type movie that goes from the beginning to end in a slow paced manner but keeps you gripped till the end because of the tight and complex screenplay from V. Vignarajan.
The story follows Vinod, a depressed cricketer; Selvam, a blind librarian and Dr. Indran, a former psychiatrist. As the story continues to unravel the mystery, we are drawn into the dark and supernatural world that director has created.
The performances of each and every character is mind blowing. Technically this thriller is a treat, it is strikingly different from the usual thriller "effects" and yet is as intense as it can get.
Finally Andhagaaram is a unique film in this genre which makes it a must watch.
- catchuanbu
- Nov 30, 2020
- Permalink