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CTRL Netflix Review

 
CTRL Netflix

The cyber horror film presents a peculiar window into the darker side of technology, and similarly, Vikram Maditya Motwane's CTRL does. The film introduces us to Nella Awasthi and her boyfriend Joe, a power couple who not only have an on/off relationship but also generate income from each other. Life seems ideal for them until Nella uncovers cheating on her side in Year 5 of marriage as a surprise. Devastated, she downloads an app designed to erase his presence from her life entirely. Below is a story that blends cyber horror, thriller, and social criticism.

Stills from CTRL

Plot and Execution

At its core, CTRL is a story of lost love, revenge, and unintended technology. The narrative kicks off with Nella’s discovery of Joe’s infidelity and her decision to erase him from her life using a mysterious app. The initial act is engaging but somewhat constrained by some of the incidental musical numbers that bring the tempo to a standstill. However, the momentum of the movie builds up to the 3rd act, which is also quite suspenseful and introspective.

However, what CTRL fails to accomplish is to bring together screen-based narrative and cinematic storytelling into a cohesive unit. In contrast to cyber horror clichés such as Searching or Unfriended the horror of CTRL does not necessarily stay within the digital realm, the horror can even go beyond the idea of "computer screen. These transitions, while ambitious, are disorienting and break immersion. Scene transitions could have been implemented more creatively to remain consistent.

Performances

Ctrl's success to an extent relies on the actress playing it, Ananya Panday, whom she takes to an unexpectedly new stage. In Nella, she represents the sensitivity, the anger, and the will of the heroine with grace. Though Ananya has been routinely criticized for her performances, the role displayed here is evidence of her dramatic progress. Her expressive performance guarantees the audience is a dedicated audience to Nella's progress.

Vihaan Samat, in a supporting role as Joe, also leaves a mark despite limited screen time. Vihaan, who has starred in Eternally Confused And Eager For Love and Call Me Bae, convincingly played the confused, flawed boyfriend. His chemistry with Ananya is plausible, as is the depth of their screen pairing.

Visuals and Direction

Visually, CTRL is a treat. Digital elements are rendered accurately, but some sequences are too refined, which minimally subverts realism. The film is especially effective at creating a feeling of suspense, especially at the end. However, the transfer from the cyber to the real world is sometimes disorienting, and it disrupts immersion.

Motwane's direction is ambitious and although not all creative decisions are successful, his ambition to mix genres is laudable. The study of influencer culture and "living online" adds a second layer to the narrative and transforms the thriller into a kind of cautionary tale.

Stills from CTRL

Themes and Social Commentary

Perhaps the most powerful feature of CTRL is the relevant reflection on influencer culture and public interactions. It points to the questioning of women in the public eye, especially in the context of breakups. Nella’s character is portrayed with empathy, making her relatable and grounded. The film also raises several broader issues regarding digital footprints, the ethics of Artificial intelligence or the unintended consequence of technologies that are designed, not just to entertain, but to provoke discussion.

Final Verdict

If you're looking for a thriller with a tech twist, CTRL is worth checking out. Even though the film is uneven in places (and is from time to time drawn out) and sometimes the scenes are poorly executed, the storyline and the acting are intrinsically captivating. The lead Ananya Panday sparkles, and the idea, although not particularly new, is managed sufficiently well to draw you in. Thanks to a potent mix of horror, social commentary, and technology frenzy, CTRL receives a solid 3.5 out of 5. It's interesting and fun, one that's perfect for a weekend marathon—unless that's watched with the grandparents.