‘The Kerala Story’ (2023) is a moving story of pain, suffering, struggle and tragedy told through the version of Shalini, the protagonist played by Adah Sharma. The film raises provocative concerns regarding religion, politics and humanity. Director Sudipto Sen’s film about the brainwashing of girls paints a terrible visual. His narrative, which depicts events in the harshest and explosive manner, elicits a wide range of emotions, assisted by some of the best performances from the lead actresses Adah Sharma, Siddhi Idnani and Yogita Bihani.
One can only imagine what it must have done to those who spent their days and nights fearing for their lives. In one scene, a woman’s hand and her husband’s head are cut off for flimsy reasons, while in another, a woman is shot dead in broad daylight simply for venturing out alone. These are a few of the numerous unsettling visuals in the film and are definitely not suitable for the faint-hearted.
The performances of the characters in ‘The Kerala Story’ are very realistic. Their on-screen emotions make you feel their pain, leaving a lump in your throat. Adah Sharma’s portrayal as Shalini/Fatima is by far her best and most convincing performance.
‘The Kerala Story’ is a difficult film to be viewed. When you view the tragedy unfold in the film, you might cry, sob and even feel afraid. Special mention goes to Bishakhjyoti and Viresh Sreevalasa for the background score and music, which goes well with the narrative.
Overall, written by Suryapal Singh, Sudipto Sen and Vipul Amrutlal Shah, the film is good to watch and will connect with you emotionally.
‘The Kerala Story’ is running in cinemas now.
Ratings: 4/5
