Kinavalli movie review: Chills and thrills in a Bungalow

Cast: Ajmal Zayn, Surabhi Santhosh, Hareesh Kanaran
Director: Sugeeth

Horror flicks keep you waiting. Kinavalli, directed by Sugeeth, had aroused curiosity in everyone ever since its spooky trailer was out. The film begins with Vivek (Ajmal Zayn) and Ann (Surabhi Santhosh) eloping to a high range bungalow against her parents’ wishes. Ajith (Krrish), Swathy (Sowmya Menon), Sudheesh (Vijay Johny) and Gopan (Sujith Raj) are Vivek’s childhood friends, but haven’t been in touch with him after he got married to Ann. Surprisingly, one day they receive a voice note from Ann inviting them to celebrate their anniversary at the bungalow. This marks the reunion of these friends after four long years. They reach the bungalow, which is rumoured to be haunted and one glance gives out a feeling of mystery.

All credits to Sugeeth for breaking out of his comfort zone and not hanging on to his usual cast. He has shown the courage to bank on the untried fantasy-horror genre, with a string of newcomers, who have done their best to make the movie engaging. Sugeeth has proved that he is capable of pulling off other genres well too. The script written by Sheethal Shyam and Vishnu Ramachandran has an adequate mix of comedy and uncanny moments. Vivek Menon’s cinematography blends well with the mood of the movie.

Trying out a new genre with newcomers is always a challenge. However, the actors have succeeded in getting into the skin of characters with ease and have acted energetically till the end. Ajmal, Surabhi, Krrish and Surabhi have delivered commendable performances, but the standout performances came from Vijay Johny and Sujith Raj. The comic timing and the flexible acting offers two actors of substance. As always, Hareesh Kanaran was at his best, even though the screen time was less.

Kinavalli is a movie you can enjoy without the clichéd glass-breaking, loud-sound scenes in horror movies. The climax of the movie maybe unconvincing to many, however, the movie’s tagline itself cites that it is ‘based on a fake story’ and you need to keep your logic out while watching it. So if the shortcomings are not to be minded, the movie is one that entertains you with ample laughs, scares and moments.