Footage (2024) Movie Filmy4web

The 2024 Malayalam-language film Footage, directed by Saiju Sreedharan, is a found-footage psychological thriller that delves into voyeurism, obsession, and the dangers of unchecked curiosity. Featuring Vishak Nair and Gayathri Ashok in lead roles. The movie has also been dubbed in Hindi and re-released, with Anurag Kashyap presenting the Hindi version.

A reputed editor in Malayalam cinema, Sreedharan is known for films like Virus and Kumbalangi Nights. With Footage, he crafts a slow-burning, unsettling experience told entirely through the lens of the characters’ cameras. The narrative explores the consequences of recording everything, blurring the lines between curiosity and intrusion.

Actor List

Plot and Storyline

The movie revolves around an unnamed vlogger couple (Vishak Nair and Gayathri Ashok) who document every aspect of their lives for their small online audience. Initially, their footage captures mundane experiences, but their curiosity takes a dark turn when they start spying on a mysterious neighbor, played by Manju Warrier.

Their obsession leads them into an eerie situation where they get more than they bargained for. The story unfolds in an unconventional way, switching between different camera perspectives to heighten the suspense.

Performances and Direction

Both lead actors deliver performances that fit the found-footage aesthetic, though some viewers feel their chemistry lacks authenticity. While the concept of the film is intriguing, some critics have pointed out that the dialogues feel overly polished, making certain scenes appear staged rather than naturally unfolding.

The film’s pacing is deliberately uneven, oscillating between slow, observational moments and chaotic, intense sequences. Some sequences, like an upside-down shot of a crucial confrontation, showcase the director’s creativity. However, some critics believe the execution falls short, making certain portions feel unnecessary or stretched.

Critical Reception and Ratings

The movie has received mixed to positive reviews. Some appreciate its experimental approach, while others feel the found-footage technique is not used effectively enough to create a truly immersive experience.

• Rotten Tomatoes: Moderate approval rating, with some critics praising its eerie tone, but others criticizing its uneven screenplay.
• Letterboxd: Reviews range from highly positive (4 stars) to critical (1.5 stars), with viewers divided on the effectiveness of the found-footage format.
• Gadgets 360: Rated 7/10, highlighting its technical ambition, but mentioning that it may not be satisfying for all audiences.

Public Response and Final Thoughts

Audience opinions are split. Some viewers appreciate the film’s unsettling mood and technical execution, while others find the story lacking in emotional depth. The found-footage genre itself is divisive, with some praising its realism and others feeling it fails to create genuine tension.

Overall, Footage is a bold and experimental film that may not appeal to all viewers but is certainly a notable addition to Indian found-footage cinema. If you enjoy slow-burn psychological thrillers with an eerie atmosphere, this one is worth checking out. However, if you prefer tightly scripted narratives with clear resolutions, this may not be your cup of tea.