Evidey movie review: Strong acting saves Evidey

Duration: 122 minutes
Cast: Asha Sharath, Prem Prakash, Shebin Benson, Anaswara Rajan, Suraj Venjaramoodu and Manoj K. Jayan
Director: K.K. Rajeev

Where did the famous Symphony Zachariah (Manoj K. Jayan) go? This forms the basic plot of Evidey, directorial of K.K. Rajeev inspired from true events. Then comes Jessy (Asha Sharath), Zachariah’s devoted and determined wife who sets out in search of her missing husband. But, it is not merely their story. In parallel goes the story of Zachariah’s son (Shebin Benson), a college student, throwing light on a burning issue among students. In brief, one can call Evidey a family drama-cum-mystery thriller-cum-social awareness movie with so much dramatic, tear-jerking moments.

Be it in terms of story or narration, the movie offers nothing new. This highly predictable, quickly-concluded mystery goes with the time tested methods. What saves Evidey is its actors’ performances, appealing visuals of high range and believable makeup/ no makeup.

Asha Sharath as housewife Jessy is quite convincing in looks and action. The makers have thoughtfully presented her on screen, reflecting her background in her look. She applies less or no makeup, wears simple sarees, and gives a memorable performance as a strong-willed wife and mother. Shebin Benson’s portrayal as the prodigal son brings out his acting mettle. These two characters’ excellence could not have happened without Prem Prakash’s Kuttichan and Anaswara Rajan’s character complementing them.  Suraj Venjaramood and Baiju, too, appear in short yet significant roles. But, providing a little more information about Zachariah’s journey could have helped the narrative.

Then, there are picturesque visuals, though the long-winding road repeats in the process, suggesting their tiring and troublesome journey. The movie has only two songs placed at the right positions. But, Evidey could have been a better viewing without the clichéd preachy climax.