‘Hide N Seek’ Movie Review: Fresh Concept, but Lacks Cohesive Storytelling

One of the standout aspects of the film is how thoughtfully the director unfolds the story, taking their time instead of rushing to a conclusion.

The serial killer genre has explored various motives and methods extensively, leaving filmmakers with limited opportunities for originality. In “Hide N Seek,” director Basireddy Rana and his team attempt to inject some freshness into the genre. The director conceptualizes an intriguing approach for the antagonist’s criminal activities. Unfortunately, the film struggles in its execution. Many of the dialogues unintentionally elicit laughter, which isn’t the mood you want to create in a crime thriller.

Set in Kurnool, the sudden rise in new crimes confounds Inspector Vaishnavi and her team. Shiva (Vishwant), a medical student and aspiring Army doctor, plays a crucial role in helping the police piece together the clues left by the antagonist. As they delve deeper into the mystery, they uncover a vast network poised to carry out a massacre in Tirupati. The plot revolves around how the police, with Shiva’s assistance, solve the crime and prevent the impending disaster.

What stands out in the film is the deliberate pace at which the director unfolds the narrative, taking care not to rush through the story. It’s commendable how the film invests time in establishing the law enforcement aspect and presenting a somewhat believable group of officers. As the story progresses into the second half, the mystery begins to unfold, showcasing the patience and thoughtfulness behind the film. The screenplay maintains enough intrigue to keep audiences engaged as they work to solve the puzzle, a challenging feat in today’s age of heightened awareness in serial killer narratives.

However, the film often feels lackluster and unengaging due to its subpar dialogue and lackluster performances. No single portrayal feels genuine or convincing; some actors overly dramatize their roles, while others appear to be going through the motions.

A crime thriller like this really requires polished cinematography and strong performances, but unfortunately, the cast and crew fall short in delivering the intensity needed. One can’t help but wish that the director, who has a unique concept, had a more skilled team to bring this thrilling vision to life.

The most noticeable flaw in the film is the poor lighting and cinematography. Issues like light leaks, excessive smoke, and inconsistent lighting techniques make it hard for viewers to fully immerse themselves in the story. This lack of attention to visual detail can disrupt the audience’s ability to suspend disbelief. Additionally, the production design leaves much to be desired; the police station, hospital, and even the homes depicted feel more like they belong in a low-budget TV show rather than a feature film.

On a positive note, the film does shine with its innovative concept. It’s commendable that the filmmaker took the risk to blend gaming elements with a serial killer narrative, which is no easy task, especially in a low-budget setting. As the mystery unfolds, the film does become more engaging. However, it’s clear that it had the potential to be even greater.