In the realm of storytelling, providing a protagonist with an unreliable memory can open a Pandora’s box of intriguing developments and plot twists. The psychological thriller “Bougainvillea” delves into this aspect with its central character, Reethu, portrayed by Jyothirmayi. From the very onset, the audience is positioned in a perplexing situation similar to Reethu’s, constantly doubting the reality presented on the screen. The filmmakers skillfully weave this uncertainty, questioning whether we are witnessing the unfolding of true events or merely the figments of a muddled memory—whether Reethu has indeed painted a Sunflower or another Bougainvillea.
The narrative foundation of “Bougainvillea” stands on these very uncertainties. It successfully draws the viewers into Reethu’s world of retrograde amnesia—a condition attributed to a road accident from eight years prior. This unfortunate event leaves Reethu in the care of her husband, Royce, played with understated nuance by Kunchacko Boban. Royce’s demeanor, gentle and caring, mirrors the compassionate attention he affords the patients at his hospital. However, this delicate balance in their lives is disrupted when an investigation concerning a missing girl brings the authorities right to their doorstep.
The film traces its roots to the novel “Ruthinte Lokam” by Lajo Jose and remains largely faithful to the source material. In some aspects, it manages to elevate the story beyond its written form. Director Amal Neerad’s distinctive visual style, combined with meticulously designed soundscapes, enriches the depiction of Reethu’s fleeting memories. Neerad skillfully brings these lapses to life, adding layers to the narrative while Jyothirmayi’s performance uplifts the complexity of her character. Her portrayal blends in seamlessly, especially in scenes where memory lapses are incorporated for dramatic convenience. The palpable helplessness and doubt etched in her expressions draw the audience deeper into her fragmented reality.
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Nevertheless, the film does not escape the pitfalls inherent in its original source. The narrative stumbles with an implausible plot twist and an overt escalation of violence towards its conclusion. The saving grace is the slow, calculated unveiling of the investigation, focusing on Reethu’s mental state. Following closely on the heels of “Kishkindha Kaandam,” “Bougainvillea” emerges as another exploration into the depths of human memory, or rather, its absence.
Despite its promising premise, “Bougainvillea” echoes Amal Neerad’s previous challenges in creating a cohesive resolution to a crisply crafted setup. The climax arrives with an anticlimactic thud, undermining the painstaking buildup. The backstory of the antagonist’s grandfather is awkwardly inserted, while even the homage to the legendary line from “The Usual Suspects”—”the greatest trick the devil ever pulled”—comes across as clumsy rather than clever.
After a hiatus of nearly a decade, Jyothirmayi steps back into the limelight, carrying a significant portion of the film on her shoulders. In contrast, Kunchacko Boban’s portrayal of Royce lacks full conviction. The inclusion of notable actors like Fahadh Faasil and Sharafudheen appears more of a strategic move to enhance the film’s market appeal rather than serving any substantive purpose within the narrative structure.
Ultimately, “Bougainvillea” concludes as a psychological thriller fraught with imperfections. It bears the burden of its source material’s flaws, leaving the audience with an unresolved sense of dissatisfaction. Despite its shortcomings, the movie offers a thought-provoking exploration of memory, identity, and the thin line between reality and illusion.
Currently showing in theaters, “Bougainvillea” continues its journey through the corridors of Malayalam and Indian cinema, inviting viewers to experience its intricate, if somewhat flawed, tapestry of suspense.
