Despite the abundance of police procedurals in Malayalam films, “Officer on Duty,” starring Kunchacko Boban, stands out in a crowded field.Despite the audience’s familiarity with the genre, this movie offers a unique perspective. The movie presents a tough, dramatic, and audacious police officer who stands in stark contrast to the typical hero we are familiar with.
The film’s strongest point is Kunchacko Boban’s portrayal of CI HaHarishankar. In contrast to the stereotypically polite and moral police officer, Arishankar is bold, unrepentant, and doesn’t hesitate to use force when necessary. The movie begins with a seemingly straightforward case of counterfeit gold, but as it progresses, it delves deeper into darker areas and reveals a terrifying POCSO probe.
Harishankar’s relentless temperament is what distinguishes his character. He is prepared to confront anyone who stands in his way, even if it means confronting suspicions head-on without feeling guilty. The contentious depiction of a female suspect further complicates the story. Because of Kunchacko’s outstanding acting, the audience is drawn into a suspenseful inquiry as the movie goes on, giving the impression that this is a real-life case rather than merely another staged drama.
The movie masterfully maintains suspense for the audience. Despite using several well-known clichés, such as the impact of narcotics on young people and the Bengaluru location, “Officer on Duty” is captivating because of the way these aspects are handled. The film’s sense of urgency is heightened by the unnervingly intense performances of its supporting ensemble, which includes Vishak Nair, Vishnu G. Varrier, and Leya Mammen.
Their performances arouse a deep-seated annoyance that propels the story along and draws the audience into its maelstrom.
In his directing debut, Jithu Asharef does a fantastic job of keeping the suspense and tension high. Even though fans of the police thriller genre may recognize the movie, its unrelenting pacing and compelling plot developments make it stand out. Kabir’s script is well organized, with each scene building upon the previous one, ensuring that the plot remains focused and understandable.
The crowd is eagerly awaiting the break as the first half of the movie flies by. Following a short break, the second half transforms into an exciting chase that will hold your interest until the very end.Another noteworthy element is the soundtrack by Jakes Bejoy, which enhances the suspense and perfectly complements the story’s inquisitive tone.
The film benefits from its simplicity even if it doesn’t rely on unexpected turns or breathtaking scenes. It is a realistic, skillfully written police procedure that avoids hyperbole. The film’s emotional depth amplifies its impact, especially as it delves into themes of trauma and personal history. One particularly moving scene, in which Harishankar finds a body and has a panic attack, reveals a vulnerability in the character and provides a unique humanizing moment in an otherwise harsh, straightforward story.
With outstanding performances by Kunchacko Boban in particular, “Officer on Duty” manages to produce an engaging, suspenseful thriller. Investigative drama fans shouldn’t overlook it due to its realistic approach and lack of unnecessary gimmicks. You should watch “Officer on Duty” if you want something gritty and meaningful.