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Actor-producer Soham Shah has built a reputation for choosing unconventional and compelling projects. He won over critics and audiences alike with his performances in Ship of Theseus and Tumbbad. Now, with Crazy, he takes on another gripping role that promises to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. Teaming up with director Girish Kohli, Soham delivers a performance that meets, if not exceeds, expectations. But does the film live up to the hype? Let’s break it down.
Storyline
The film kicks off on April 1st, following Dr. Abhimanyu Sood (Soham Shah), who is on his way to the hospital carrying ₹5 crore. This hefty sum is meant as an out-of-court settlement for the family of a deceased patient who lost their life due to medical negligence by him and the hospital. However, his journey takes a shocking turn when he receives a call from an unknown number. The caller claims to have kidnapped his daughter, Vedika, and demands the same ₹5 crore as ransom.
From this point, the tension escalates. Abhimanyu is thrown into a whirlwind of emotions and moral dilemmas. His past resurfaces, revealing that he had wanted to abort Vedika when he discovered she had Down syndrome. His marriage to Bobby, his ex-wife, ended due to his lack of acceptance of their daughter. Abhimanyu had always dreamed of having a 'smart and intelligent' child, making him ashamed of Vedika. Now, faced with a dire situation, he must choose: does he use the money to save himself from legal consequences, or does he sacrifice it to rescue his daughter?
Initially dismissing the call as a prank, Abhimanyu soon realizes the kidnapping is real when the kidnapper, Vedika’s school teacher Prasad (Tinnu Anand), sends him a video of his daughter in captivity. This leads to a heart-racing sequence of events as Abhimanyu struggles with his past mistakes, his selfish instincts, and the desperate need to save Vedika. The real question remains—what path will he take?
Writing and Direction
Girish Kohli, known for his work on Kesari, Mom, and Hit: The First Case, once again crafts a gripping narrative. He has a knack for storytelling that leaves a lasting impact, and Crazy is no exception. The film is packed with suspense and unexpected twists, keeping audiences guessing until the very end.
The screenplay moves at a brisk pace, never allowing a dull moment. The challenge of keeping viewers engaged with primarily one central character on screen is no easy feat, but the combination of Kohli’s tight direction and Soham Shah’s acting prowess makes it work seamlessly. The film forces viewers to constantly rethink the unfolding events, making for a truly immersive experience.
From a technical standpoint, Crazy is well-executed. Samyukta Kaza and Rithem Lath’s sharp editing ensures the story remains tight and engaging, avoiding unnecessary drag. At just 90 minutes, the film doesn’t overstay its welcome. The cinematography enhances the tense atmosphere, making each scene visually striking.
Adding to the film’s intensity is the musical score by Gulzar and Vishal Bhardwaj. Though the film doesn’t rely heavily on songs, the few tracks included are impactful and elevate the storytelling. However, the climax does falter slightly. After building up a grand narrative, the resolution feels somewhat rushed and underwhelming. The emotional connection between the characters weakens towards the end, making it feel more suited for an OTT release rather than a theatrical experience.
Performances
Soham Shah shines in Crazy, carrying the film on his shoulders. His portrayal of Dr. Abhimanyu Sood is intense, layered, and deeply compelling. He successfully brings out the character’s internal conflicts, making the audience empathize with his moral dilemmas despite his flaws. His performance in the second half is particularly commendable, solidifying his place among the finest actors in the thriller genre.