The realm of psychological thrillers often ventures into the murky waters of human memory, and “Bougainvillea” is no exception. The film probes the fascinating concept of unreliable memory, using it as a central pivot for the narrative. Directed by Amal Neerad, “Bougainvillea” is an adaptation of Lajo Jose’s novel “Ruthinte Lokam” and unfolds through the uncertain eyes of Reethu, portrayed by Jyothirmayi. This cinematic piece attempts to engage its audience by keeping them as much in the dark as its protagonist, raising questions about the reliability of what we perceive as reality.
Reethu, the protagonist, is afflicted by retrograde amnesia, a consequence of a tragic road accident eight years prior to the story’s events. Her condition blurs the lines between reality and illusion, making her an ideal candidate for a tale steeped in the unpredictable twists and turns of the mind. The director masterfully curates these layers of uncertainty, making Reethu’s world a compelling yet distorted reality that leaves viewers pondering if her recollections are reflections of the truth or the workings of an impaired mind. Is her canvas painted with sunflowers, or is it yet another bougainvillea—a question that haunts both Reethu and the audience throughout the narrative?
The narrative takes a turn when the tranquility of Reethu’s domestic life, carefully maintained by her gentle and supportive husband Royce (played by Kunchacko Boban), is shattered by an unexpected police investigation. The investigation into a missing girl spirals the story into an intriguing whodunit, hinging on Reethu’s fragile memory. The screenplay closely follows the source material, with enhancements in particular scenes, crafting a mesmerizing tapestry intertwined with Amal Neerad’s visual style and nuanced soundscapes, capturing the fleeting moments of Reethu’s cognitive lapses.
Jyothirmayi’s portrayal of Reethu is undoubtedly one of the film’s strengths, as she immerses herself into the character’s depths, conveying a palpable sense of vulnerability and doubt. Her performance lends credibility to a narrative that demands more than just a passive engagement from its viewers. Even when the script occasionally uses memory lapses for convenience, Jyothirmayi handles these moments with grace, maintaining believability.
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However, despite its captivating premise, “Bougainvillea” struggles with some of the same pitfalls as its literary origin. The plot twist, which aims to surprise, feels unconvincing and forced, a weak link in an otherwise potential-rich narrative. The escalation of violence, particularly towards the film’s climax, seems contrived and does little to elevate the story. Yet, the methodical buildup preceding the climax, which navigates through the maze of Reethu’s mind, offers a glimpse of what the film could have achieved—a nuanced exploration of the psyche akin to other memorable psychological thrillers.
Amal Neerad, celebrated for his meticulous set-ups in films, often meets challenges in delivering climaxes that match the story’s beginnings. “Bougainvillea” echoes this sentiment, with an end that nearly unravels the carefully woven build-up. The villain’s background story feels like an unnecessary add-on, while borrowing lines from classics like “The Usual Suspects” only distracts from the film’s original atmosphere.
The ensemble cast includes familiar faces like Fahadh Faasil and Sharafudheen, whose roles seem designed more for promotional appeal than narrative necessity. Meanwhile, Jyothirmayi, marking her return to the screen after a lengthy hiatus, carries the weight of the film. In contrast, Kunchacko Boban’s portrayal of Royce appears only partially convincing, not quite reaching the depth needed to complement Reethu’s complex character.
Ultimately, “Bougainvillea” emerges as a mixed bag—an unsatisfying psychological thriller marred by uneven storytelling and unfulfilled potential, yet sustained by strong performances and atmospheric finesse. Despite its flaws, it tantalizes with its exploration of memory and perception, inviting audiences to question the nature of reality and illusion.
Currently playing in theaters, “Bougainvillea” is an addition to the ever-evolving landscape of Malayalam cinema and poses intriguing questions for those willing to look beyond its imperfections.
