Unraveling Mystery with a Debutante’s Touch
“Lara,” directed by debutant Manimoorthy, is a gripping crime thriller that follows Kartikesan’s investigation into a woman’s decomposed body found ashore. The tightly woven narrative, rich with twists and layered characters like the conflicted MLA, the secretive Williams, and two suspicious youngsters, keeps the suspense alive. While the “Lara factor” could have been handled with more finesse, the smart finale defies conventions, showcasing Kartikesan’s sense of fairness.
Despite a limited budget and lesser-known actors, the film impresses with its realism, focused screenplay, and finely tuned performances. Kartikesan shines as the middle-aged cop, balancing his multiple roles with finesse.
Verdict:
“A tightly packed thriller that punches above its weight with suspense and authenticity.”
