Kill (2023) Movie Review: A High-Octane Action Thriller on a Train
Introduction
Kill (2023) is a Hindi-language action thriller directed by Nikhil Nagesh Bhat and produced by Bollywood heavyweight Karan Johar. The film, set entirely on a train bound for New Delhi, offers a relentless, blood-soaked ride that is best experienced on the big screen.
Plot Overview
The story follows Amrit (Lakshya), a commando on a mission to protect Tulika (Tanya Maniktala) from a gang of ruthless criminals aboard the train. What starts as a routine journey quickly turns into a brutal fight for survival, with Amrit taking on dozens of baddies to keep Tulika safe. While the plot is thin and the character development minimal, the film’s primary focus is on delivering visceral, high-octane action sequences.
Action and Choreography
The action scenes, choreographed by Se-yeong Oh and Parvez Sheikh, are the film’s main attraction. These sequences are visually dynamic and creatively shot by cinematographer Rafey Mehmood, making the most of the confined train setting. The fights are brutal and intense, with a level of gore that will satisfy fans of hardcore action cinema.
However, the film’s pacing suffers due to the lulls between these set pieces. At 105 minutes, Kill feels longer than it should, with several dramatic moments dragging down the momentum. The movie’s limited setting also leads to some repetitive visuals, though the fight choreography remains engaging throughout.
Character Development
The characters in Kill are largely secondary to the action. Amrit is a one-dimensional hero, and while Lakshya gives a committed performance, there’s little in the script to make us care deeply about his journey. Tulika, played by Tanya Maniktala, is mostly a damsel in distress, and their chemistry lacks the depth needed to elevate the film beyond its action roots. Supporting characters like Viresh (Abhishek Chauhan) and Fani (Raghav Juyal) add little to the narrative, serving mainly as foils for the protagonist.
Cinematography and Sound Design
Rafey Mehmood’s cinematography makes effective use of the train’s claustrophobic environment, with tight shots and dynamic angles that heighten the tension during fight scenes. The sound design complements the action well, maintaining an ambient tension that keeps viewers on edge. The film’s sparse use of music adds to the suspense, though it might leave some viewers craving the melodramatic flair typical of Bollywood.
Themes and Execution
Kill tries to deliver on its high-concept premise, but the execution leaves much to be desired. The film’s focus on action comes at the expense of story and character development, making it feel more like a series of set pieces than a cohesive narrative. While the action is impressive, the film lacks the emotional core that could have made it more impactful.
Final Verdict
Kill is a brutal, action-packed thriller that delivers on its promise of high-octane fights and intense sequences. However, its thin plot and lack of character development make it feel more like an exercise in style over substance. For fans of hardcore action, it’s a fun, if flawed, ride that’s best experienced in a theater with a rowdy audience and a booming sound system.
If you’re looking for a no-frills action movie that focuses on sheer spectacle, Kill ticks all the right boxes. Just don’t expect much beyond the adrenaline-pumping sequences.
