Review: 'Starfish' delves deep into the ocean of secrets with a compelling mix of thrill and ambiguity

Starfish movie review

Director Akhilesh Jaiswal is all set to take the audiences for a visual treat as his film 'Starfish' adapted from Bina Nayak's best-selling novel 'Starfish Pickle' graces the big screens. Starring Khushali Kumar, Tushar Khanna, Milind Soman and Ehan Bhat in pivotal roles, the romantic drama will make you delve deep in the ocean of grief, trauma, love and self discovery. What impact will it have on you, you decide it for yourself. This is what I feel about the film.  

Diving deep in the depth of the narrative

In the picturesque landscapes of Malta, Tara (Khushali Kumar) leads a life as a diver, working for a company dedicated to rescuing individuals caught in the depths of the ocean, even recovering those who did not survive the ordeal. While Tara is engrossed in her current pursuits, the shadows of a haunting past persistently linger, with concealed secrets intensifying her struggle with PTSD.

Amidst the challenges, Tara embarks on a journey of love, initially with Aman (Tushar Khanna), a naval officer, though their connection proves unsustainable. She then encounters Neel (Ehan Bhat), finding solace and affection in their relationship, until fate reintroduces the past through the enigmatic Algo (Milind Soman). The traumatic history, particularly involving Tara's mother, propels her on a relentless quest for truth, a journey that becomes synonymous with self-discovery.

Akhilesh Jaiswal masterfully captures the raw and visceral nature of Tara's pain and panic attacks, delving into the depths of her emotional turmoil. However, the love stories woven into the narrative lack profound depth, somewhat lacking substance, particularly considering the film's central focus on them. Despite occasional screenplay fragmentation and continuity issues, the film manages to sustain a thrilling momentum, leaving the audience captivated until the end.

Is the end what you think it is?

As the story approaches its conclusion, a compelling desire for answers emerges, fueled by the narrative's unpredictability. One of the film's most astonishing aspects is its ending, providing closure for the protagonists while leaving a few lingering questions. This intentional ambiguity invites viewers to broaden their horizons and engage their imaginations, contemplating alternative scenarios. The director, without any prior hints, holds the potential to craft a sequel, leveraging the unresolved elements.

The Star Performances

Khushali Kumar's portrayal of Tara is filled with promise, showcasing her adept emotive skills. Particularly noteworthy are the scenes where she grapples with intoxication in her quest for self-discovery; here, the pain and vulnerability resonate convincingly. Milind Soman, ever the charmer, lights up the screen with just a few minutes of his captivating presence. Ehan Bhat and Tushar Khanna bring charisma to their roles as Neel and Aman, respectively. Meeting expectations, they deliver decent performances, successfully embodying their characters and contributing to the film's overall impact.

Scenic Malta and Music

Undoubtedly, the film's standout feature lies in its cinematography, seamlessly weaving the narrative into the breathtaking backdrop of Malta. The sea, aerial shots of the city, weathered streets, and the vast ocean are all captured with a keen eye, creating a visual masterpiece. The underwater sequences are particularly well-executed, offering a vivid sense of the setting and ambiance. The cinematography transforms the film into a visual spectacle, immersing the audience in the stunning landscapes. The musical composition adds to the film's appeal, with tracks like 'Fanna kar do' and 'kudiye ni tere' leaving a lasting impression and evoking a positive response. The overall background music complements the storytelling effectively. 

The Verdict

'Starfish' delves deep into the ocean of secrets, grief, love and keeps up with the thrill till the very end while leaving you with ambiguity and a room for imagination.