The much-anticipated film Bougainvillea, directed by Amal Neerad, made its theatrical debut on October 17. Starring Kunchacko Boban as Dr Royce Thomas, Jyothirmayi as Reethu and Fahadh Faasil as investigating officer ACP David Koshy IPS, this Malayalam film has been labelled an ‘unsatisfying psychological thriller’ by critics. While the film was expected to deliver a gripping experience, it ultimately falls short of expectations despite commendable performances and an impressive background score by Sushin Shyam. ‘Bougainvillea’ Movie Review: Netizens Praise Kunchacko Boban and Jyothirmayi’s Stellar Performances in Amal Neerad’s ‘Slow-Burn Psychological Thriller’.

The synopsis of Bougainvillea movie reads: “Royce and Reethu are happily married couple with two kids. Their life turns upside down when they meet with an accident and Reethu loses her mind. ACP David Koshy is assigned to investigate the mysterious disappearance of tourists in Kerala, where Reethu is the prime suspect.” Take a look at some of the reviews below shared by critics. ‘Bougainvillea’: Is Jyothirmayi’s Casting ‘Nepotism’? Rima Kallingal Defends Actress in Heated Instagram Debate Over Amal Neerad’s Film.

Watch the Trailer of ‘Bougainvillea’ Below:

The Hindu: “Amal Neerad has often found it challenging to neatly wrap up his films despite well-written set-ups (except for a few films like Varathan). One can sense the same issue in Bougainvillea, as he almost squanders the neatly crafted buildup in an ineffective climax sequence. In her return to the screen after almost a decade, Jyothirmayi shoulders a good part of the film, while Kunchacko Boban seems only partly convincing. Fahadh Faasil and Sharafudheen, on the other hand, appear to have been cast just for the sake of having their faces on the publicity posters.”

Hindustan Times: “Once again music director Sushin Shyam has delivered a BGM that truly elevates the film. Jyothirmayi, who makes a successful comeback in her husband’s film after 11 years, is the heart and soul of Bougainvillea. Kunchako Boban as Royce has a good character arc but the predictability of his character hinders the gripping pace in which the film progresses especially in the second half.”

India Today: “Bougainvillea is a slow-burn thriller that relies on holding on withholding information to reveal it at the right moment. Kunchacko Boban, with his intense expressions, brings in the much-needed mystery to the story. The way Jyothirmayi's Reethu tries to recollect her memories showcases the struggles of people suffering from any form of memory loss. Their performances, along with supporting acts from Srinda, Veena Nandakumar and Sharaf U Dheen, make Bougainvillea work.”

Times of India: “The music by Sushin Shyam, including 'Sthuthi' in the end credits, the background score, and the sound effects, made the film an auditory treat. Jyothirmayi is the ultimate winner in this Amal Neerad thriller.”

The News Minute: “The film belongs to Jyothirmayi and Kunchacko Boban, especially her. Both of them, with their performances, can let the story go any which way.”

The Indian Express: “From the outset, Jyothirmayi commands the film. Despite returning to acting after an 11-year hiatus, her performance is so compelling that it feels as though she never left the screen. Kunchacko Boban continues his upward trajectory, with Bougainvillea adding another feather to his cap. Sushin Shyam’s exceptional music underscores Bougainvillea’s impressive technical aspects.”

Bougainvillea offers standout performances from Kunchacko Boban and Jyothirmayi. However, the Amal Neerad directorial struggles to deliver a satisfying psychological thriller experience, leaving critics and audiences wanting more. The film’s strong performances and effective music are not enough to overcome its narrative shortcomings, making it a mixed bag in the realm of psychological thrillers.

 

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 18, 2024 09:28 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).