Introduction: Strings of Suspense
Directed by Ranjit M. Tewari, Cuttputlli is a Hindi remake of the Tamil film Ratsasan, bringing psychological crime drama to the forefront of Bollywood. Starring Akshay Kumar as a rookie cop, the film delves into the chilling investigation of a serial killer targeting schoolgirls in a small town.
More psychological than action-packed, Cuttputlli is a restrained thriller that slowly tightens its grip.
Plot Summary (No Spoilers)
Arjan Sethi (Akshay Kumar) is an aspiring filmmaker obsessed with making movies about psychopaths. Life takes a turn when he joins the Himachal police and is assigned to investigate the gruesome murders of teenage girls.
As bodies pile up and the town descends into fear, Arjan must decode a killer’s twisted mind before the next victim is claimed.
What Works: Tension, Mood & Performances
A Well-Crafted Thriller
The film builds suspense steadily, avoiding jump scares in favor of a slow-burn psychological approach. It creates unease through atmosphere and eerie setups.
Akshay Kumar’s Subtle Performance
Unlike his usual high-octane roles, Akshay plays a more grounded character. His restrained portrayal adds credibility and tension to the investigation.
Strong Visuals & Direction
The foggy hills of Himachal, haunting background score, and shadowy cinematography enhance the eerie tone. Director Ranjit M. Tewari keeps the mystery engaging.
Faithful to Source
The film remains close to the original (Ratsasan) while making small adjustments for a Hindi-speaking audience without losing intensity.
What Doesn’t Work
Predictability for Some: If you’ve seen Ratsasan, this may feel like a rehash with fewer surprises.
Emotional Connect: The relationships in the film feel a bit underdeveloped, particularly with the supporting characters.
Pacing Dips Midway: The narrative slows in parts, which may affect engagement for some viewers.
Final Thoughts: A Dark, Gripping Ride
Cuttputlli might not reinvent the crime thriller genre, but it executes the formula well. With a tight script, strong lead performance, and an unsettling mood, it keeps you guessing until the final act.
For fans of psychological thrillers like Gaslight or Ratsasan, this is a solid Hindi entry into the genre.
🍿Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Performance: 7.5/10
Direction: 7/10
Screenplay: 7/10
Suspense & Thrill: 8/10
Cinematography: 7.5/10