Star Cast: Ananya Panday, Vihan Samat
Director: Vikramaditya Motwane
CTRL, directed by Vikramaditya Motwane, is a sharp and unsettling thriller that takes a deep dive into the world of artificial intelligence and the growing intersection of technology and human emotion. The film taps into the universal fear of losing control in a tech-dominated world, with echoes of Black Mirror in its storytelling. Yet, CTRL offers a distinctly Indian flavor, blending traditional cultural concerns with futuristic anxieties.
Ananya Panday delivers one of her most compelling performances to date. She plays a character whose life is increasingly intertwined with an AI, navigating the boundaries between reality and illusion. Her role is a fresh take for Bollywood, steering away from conventional romantic or dramatic arcs and moving into complex territory that questions identity, autonomy, and privacy.
Vikramaditya Motwane masterfully balances tension and intrigue. His direction feels deliberate, letting the story unravel at just the right pace, keeping audiences hooked with its mysterious AI plotlines. The visual treatment of the film is slick, with a muted color palette that mirrors the film’s darker themes.
The film excels in creating a near-future world where technology rules but isn’t entirely far-fetched—making the story feel eerily close to our present-day realities. As with any good tech thriller, it raises questions about the ethical limits of AI and the potential dangers of unchecked technological advancement.
While some parts of the movie may feel familiar to fans of science fiction, CTRL stands out in its localized narrative, merging the fast-evolving tech landscape with relatable human dilemmas. Its blend of futuristic themes with Indian sensibilities makes it a unique watch, offering a thought-provoking experience for audiences.
In conclusion, CTRL is a daring move for Bollywood, venturing into science fiction with depth and nuance. It’s a thriller that offers not just edge-of-your-seat suspense but also deep reflections on the role of technology in shaping human lives. Ananya Panday’s performance anchors the film, while Motwane’s direction ensures it remains engaging from start to finish.
