“Merry Christmas” is a gripping Andhadhun-style thriller directed by Sriram Raghavan, featuring a stellar cast including Katrina Kaif, Vijay Sethupathi, Radhika Apte, Sanjay Kapoor, Tinnu Anand, and Vinay Pathak. The film, set against the backdrop of a festive Christmas Eve in the erstwhile Bombay, unfolds with a chance encounter between strangers Maria (played by Katrina Kaif) and Albert (portrayed by Vijay Sethupathi). What begins as a romantic interlude takes a dark turn when Maria’s husband appears lifeless and drenched in blood. Sriram Raghavan employs a masterful stroke in crafting the suspenseful narrative within the confines of a mysterious old Bombay house. The setting itself adds an intriguing layer, creating an atmosphere where every corner seems to conceal a sinister secret. Raghavan’s script weaves deep, enigmatic dialogues with subtle humor, lending an artificial yet captivating tone to the characters’ voices. From the outset, it’s evident that something is amiss with both Albert and Maria. Raghavan’s tight plot keeps the audience on the edge of their seats, gradually unraveling the mystery behind the murder and the characters’ hidden motives. The suspenseful elements are reminiscent of Raghavan’s previous success with “Andhadhun,” making “Merry Christmas” a taut and thrilling cinematic experience. Katrina Kaif delivers a compelling performance, showcasing not only her porcelain beauty but also a nuanced portrayal of Maria—a caring mother navigating life amidst the sudden death of her tumultuous husband. The character’s Christian outlook evokes nostalgia, reminiscent of her innocent role as ‘Jenny’ in “Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahaani.
Vijay Sethupathi, a stalwart of South Indian cinema, redefines heroism with his role as Albert. Dressed in a simple blazer, Sethupathi’s polite smile hides an underlying charm that captivates the audience. As a man with something to prove, he keeps viewers guessing about the secrets he might be concealing. His performance adds depth to the suspense, contributing to the overall enigma of the film. The supporting cast, including Sanjay Kapoor, Tinnu Anand, Pratima Kazmi, and Vinay Pathak, deserves a heartfelt shoutout for their contributions to this almost Christmas-ey tale. Together, they complement the narrative, becoming the ‘Merry’ in this suspenseful thriller. In “Merry Christmas,” the filmmaker skillfully raises thought-provoking questions, leaving the audience pondering the complexities of messy family dynamics. The film’s exploration of the idea that “sometimes violence is better than sacrifice,” as asserted by Albert, adds an intriguing layer to the storyline. The characters grapple with moral dilemmas, creating a web of suspense and emotion that resonates with fans of the genre. For those who enjoyed the suspenseful twists of “Andhadhun,” “Merry Christmas” promises a pure cinematic pleasure. It skillfully plants questions in the viewers’ minds, inviting them to unravel the intricacies of the plot. Raghavan’s direction, coupled with the standout performances of Kaif and Sethupathi, ensures that the film deserves both time and attention. In conclusion, “Merry Christmas” stands as a testament to Sriram Raghavan’s prowess in crafting gripping suspense thrillers. With its intriguing plot, well-rounded characters, and stellar performances, the film successfully captivates the audience, making it a worthy addition to the realm of Indian.