Released in 2015, Drishyam is a Bollywood thriller drama directed by Nishikant Kamat. The movie stars Ajay Devgn, Tabu, and Shriya Saran in lead roles. It is a remake of the 2013 Malayalam film of the same name. With its suspenseful storytelling and intense performances, Drishyam keeps the audience hooked from start to finish.
This review will cover the film’s plot, its best elements, strengths and weaknesses, box office performance, and who should watch it.
Plot Summary
The story revolves around Vijay Salgaonkar (Ajay Devgn), a simple cable operator living in a small town in Goa with his wife, Nandini (Shriya Saran), and two daughters. Their peaceful life takes a drastic turn when an unexpected incident threatens to destroy their family.
In the middle of this situation is IG Meera Deshmukh (Tabu), a strong and determined police officer who is searching for the truth. As the mystery unfolds, Vijay must use his intelligence and presence of mind to protect his family from the consequences. Drishyam is a gripping tale of deception, suspense, and survival.
What’s Good?
Drishyam has many elements that make it an outstanding thriller. Here are some of the best aspects:
- Brilliant Performances: Ajay Devgn delivers one of his finest performances as a loving father who will go to any lengths to protect his family. Tabu, as the tough police officer, is equally powerful, adding depth to the film.
- Engaging Storyline: The movie keeps the audience guessing throughout. Every twist and turn adds to the suspense, making it a nail-biting experience.
- Strong Direction: Nishikant Kamat does a fantastic job of maintaining the tension and keeping the narrative tight. The pacing is perfect, ensuring that the film never feels slow or dull.
- Cinematography and Setting: The scenic beauty of Goa is captured well, giving the film a unique backdrop. The cinematography enhances the intense moments, making them more impactful.
- Emotional Depth: Unlike regular thrillers, Drishyam also focuses on emotions and family values. The bond between Vijay and his family adds an emotional touch to the film.
- Background Score: The music and background score by Vishal Bhardwaj enhance the suspense, making key scenes even more thrilling.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Exceptional performances by Ajay Devgn and Tabu.
- Tightly written script with well-executed twists.
- Realistic storytelling that keeps the audience engaged.
- Perfect balance of drama and suspense.
Weaknesses:
- Slow buildup in the first half, which may feel a bit lengthy for some viewers.
- Minimal songs, which may disappoint Bollywood fans who expect musical numbers.
- Predictability for those who have seen the original, as it follows the same plot.
Despite these minor issues, the film remains one of the best thrillers in Bollywood.
Target Audience
This movie is perfect for:
- Thriller and suspense lovers who enjoy intelligent storytelling.
- Fans of Ajay Devgn and Tabu, who deliver strong performances.
- Viewers who like realistic and gripping narratives.
- Those who enjoy mystery films with unexpected twists.
Box Office Details
Drishyam performed well at the box office, receiving praise from both critics and audiences. Below are the financial details:
| Details | Amount (INR) |
|---|---|
| Budget | 38 crore |
| Box Office India | 76 crore |
| Worldwide Gross | 110 crore |
First 5-Day Earnings (India and Overseas)
| Day | India Earnings (INR) | Overseas Earnings (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | 8.5 crore | 2.1 crore |
| Day 2 | 9.4 crore | 2.3 crore |
| Day 3 | 12 crore | 3 crore |
| Day 4 | 10 crore | 2.8 crore |
| Day 5 | 7.8 crore | 2.5 crore |
The film gained popularity through word of mouth, leading to strong collections in the later weeks.
Recommendation
Drishyam is a must-watch for fans of crime thrillers and intelligent storytelling. With powerful performances and a gripping narrative, it keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. If you enjoy suspenseful dramas, this movie is highly recommended!