What Is the Story About?
Panic sets in the police department when a top surgeon from a reputed hospital, Salim Rahman, is brutally murdered. The case becomes a high priority. Renowned Pathologist Badra (Amala Paul), known for her excellent track record in solving crimes, is given the responsibility along with the police chief Vishal (Harish Utthaman).
What does the investigation of Badra and Vishal reveal? How is Vasu (Thrigun) connected to the killings? What shocking secret comes out in the end, is the movie’s basic premise.
Performances?
Amala Paul playing a no-nonsense doctor working for the police is good. She sports a short hair look along with spectacles. It gives her a unique look compared to some of the recent outings. More than the look, the calm and composed way she goes about the character (which itself comes with a unique background) makes it a different role for her. The easy-going intensity without trying anything hard also works to her advantage.
Amala Pual drives the narrative with her intensity and poise. She holds everything together even when nothing is happening. And finally, a few dramatic moments make the character well-rounded. All in all, it is a satisfying outing for her.
Analysis
Anoop Panicker directs Cadaver. On the surface, it is a simple thriller with a serial killer angle. It is the background that makes the whole world of difference.
The beginning instantly intrigues and grabs the attention of the audience. The gruesome murder, the mortuary setting and a pathologist investigating the whole thing offer freshness.
The entire first act involving finding the clues and following the track of Vasu holds the attention. However, the moment the flashback track of Vasu is revealed, and his love interest Angel is brought to the fore, the entire momentum slips. The narrative soon moves into a typical revenge space with investigative drama thrown in.
The worst fears come true as more information is out related to Angel. The backdrop and the suspense are diluted a lot due to the same. The writing doesn’t help the cause, and some sequences look far-fetched.
However, the screenplay still manages to hook as there are a couple of twists that do manage to thrill. It is irrespective of whether one guesses it or not.
The ending on an emotional note gives an entirely different feel to the movie from when it started. It is fine, but one can feel routineness and predictability when the whole cards are put down.
Overall, Cadaver is an investigative thriller that is intriguing in parts. Some twists work, too. But the weak writing and a predictable flashback dilute the whole thing and make it look half-baked. If you like thrillers, give the movie a try, but have low expectations.
Other Artists?
Harish Uthaman plays a cop who is akin to a hero for a change. By that, we mean there are no negative shades, and he is no villain. He plays the typical sporting actor character well and with sincerity. His scenes with Amala Paul are alright.
Thrigun plays another critical supporting part. He has two shades to his role and is adequate in both. After a good start, it looks like the character has taken a backseat, though. Munishkanth does well as long as he gets something to chew upon. Vinod Sagar is under utilised and feels wasted, eventually. The rest of the actors are seen in bits and pieces roles, and they are okay.
Music and Other Departments?
Ranjin Raj’s music is compelling when we speak of the background score. The actual songs don’t appeal and add to the movie’s length. They also come across as speed breakers.
Aravind Singh’s cinematography is decent. The movie bears a distinct look which enhances the mood of the setting. It is all initially, though; later, things turn out normal, even visually. The editing should have been better. There is a patchy feel after the initial hour. The writing is mostly thin. Better work would have elevated the proceedings.
Highlights?
Backdrop
Amala Paul
Drawbacks?
Writing
Direction
Editing, In Places
Did I Enjoy It?
Yes, In Parts
Will You Recommend It?
Yes, But With Huge Reservations
Cadaver Movie Review by Binged Bureau
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