In Arvind Sastry’s latest film, Bisi-Bisi Ice-Cream, audiences are invited into a vivid portrayal of solitude through two central characters who navigate their stark realities within the lonely corridors of their existence. Arvind Iyer takes on the role of Raghava, a cab driver whose life appears stalled in a perpetual state of desolation, almost as if he is waiting for an end he feels is inevitable. Complementing his journey is Siri Ravikumar’s unnamed character, a high-end escort whose silence speaks volumes of her deep-seated sorrow and the absence of emotional support in her life.
Bisi-Bisi Ice-Cream positions itself as a slow-burn thriller, but at its core, it’s a meticulous character study of individuals trapped in isolation. Throughout the first half of the film, Sastry exercises notable restraint, focusing less on the progression of the plot and more on capturing the mundane routines that define the lives of his protagonists. By doing so, he effectively underscores that for those who toil merely to survive, escape from monotony feels like a distant dream.
A significant portion of the film is dedicated to world-building. Sastry skillfully navigates the underbelly of the city, taking the audience through the everyday haunts of the marginalized. From crammed rooms to streets lined with petty shops and roadside eateries, the film provides a raw and unfiltered glimpse into the daily grind of its characters. Crying for a breath of fresh air, Raghava and Siri’s character find solace on a terrace, momentarily breaking away from the suffocating confines of their small dwellings.
Music, composed by Nakul Abhayankar, emerges as a pivotal character in its own right within the film. Instead of relying heavily on dialogues, Sastry uses songs to amplify the atmospheric tone of the narrative. The montage compositions are saturated with sharp lyrics that delve into the intricate layers of the lead characters’ personalities. Melodious tunes encapsulate the quiet moments shared by Raghava and Siri’s character, adding a layer of charm while Enosh Olivera’s stylized cinematography further enhances the visual storytelling.
The film’s success can largely be attributed to the powerhouse performances delivered by its cast, particularly Arvind Iyer.
. His portrayal of Raghava evolves dramatically in the second half as his character, having nearly surrendered to a life devoid of hope, is invigorated by a newfound glimmer of optimism. Supporting this transformation is Gopalakrishna Deshpande, who brings a vibrant energy to his role as a pimp masquerading as a “sophisticated businessman” running a modest brothel. His performance, over-the-top yet comical, injects much-needed zest into the narrative, reaffirming his standing as a dependable character actor in Kannada cinema.
The interplay between Raghava, Siri’s character, and Deshpande’s pimp leads to a series of adventures, deeply entangling their lives. Arvind Sastry demonstrates remarkable skill in weaving a neo-noir tale with just three primary characters. The narrative structure is carefully segmented into chapters, each meticulously building towards what promises to be a compelling climax.
However, it is this climax that might leave some viewers feeling underwhelmed. The abruptness of the ending feels jarring against the otherwise realistic storytelling approach that characterizes the rest of the film. Additionally, the film leaves a few questions hanging, particularly concerning the backgrounds of its lead characters, which might frustrate viewers looking for closure.
Arvind Sastry’s previous works, Kahi and Alidu Ulidavaru, showcase his ability to craft clever thrillers by connecting intricate narrative dots. In Bisi-Bisi Ice-Cream, Sastry focuses more on form than substance, allowing the storytelling to take precedence over the script. Despite the film’s slow initial pace, it gradually captivates and maintains the audience’s engagement throughout the unfolding events.
In conclusion, Bisi-Bisi Ice-Cream stands as a testament to the power of nuanced character studies within the realm of Kannada cinema. Its realistic portrayal of loneliness interspersed with moments of quiet beauty ensures that this film is more than just another thriller. As it continues to run in theaters, it offers a cinematic experience that resonates with the silent struggles of solitary lives in an ever-bustling world.
