In the recently released psychological thriller “Level Cross,” debutant director Arfaz Ayub presents a narrative that teases the brain and tantalizes the senses. Featuring prominent actors Asif Ali and Amala Paul, the movie unravels in an isolated, eerie setting that leaves both the protagonist and the audience grappling with illusions and mysteries.
Centered on the life of Raghu, played by Asif Ali, a gatekeeper at a remote level crossing, “Level Cross” takes its time to build tension. The film introduces Raghu, a solitary figure leading a mundane life fetching water and managing the crossing of trains, whose routine is disrupted when a mysterious, injured woman in a striking red dress, portrayed by Amala Paul, appears.
The storyline cleverly plays on themes of psychological manipulation and the unreliable narrator trope. As the movie unfolds, Raghu saves the woman, whose name alternates between Chaitali and Shikha, adding layers of confusion and intrigue. This inexplicable duality, where even names don’t seem solid, hints at the deeper psychological turmoil brewing under the surface.
A scene where Raghu finds himself caught between two conflicting narratives presented by the erratic Zincho (Sharafudheen) and the enigmatic Chaitali/Shikha is emblematic of the film’s overall chaos. Both characters try to sway him with their respective versions of reality, leaving not only Raghu but also the audience questioning what is real and what is imagined. Director Arfaz Ayub, along with script collaborator Adam Ayub, uses this confusion to maintain suspense and engage viewers.
However, the film’s pacing is a double-edged sword. While the slow burn can enhance the tension of a psychological thriller, “Level Cross” at times moves too sluggishly, making viewers wish for more rapid progress in the plot. The languid tempo may appeal to some, requiring patience as the story meanders through the psyches of its disturbed characters.
Set against the stark and unforgiving backdrop of the Sahara Desert, the film attempts to utilize this harsh environment to symbolize Raghu’s desolate internal life. The arrival of Chaitali/Shikha, draped in a vivid red dress that symbolizes life, desire, and romance, begins to fill the void in Raghu’s existence. Yet, despite the potential for the Saharan landscape to enhance these themes, the movie underutilizes its striking location. The desert could have served as a powerful tool to amplify the arid and oppressive atmosphere that mirrors the characters’ mental states but instead feels more like an aesthetic afterthought.
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Asif Ali’s performance as Raghu stands out, particularly in scenes where he portrays a man unaccustomed to female company. His expressive eyes encapsulate the bewilderment and budding attraction he feels towards Chaitali/Shikha. Asif’s ability to convey such complex emotions adds depth to his character, reflecting his experience and talent in taking on roles with intricate emotional layers. Raghu’s transformation from a seemingly simple man to one with a shadowy past and hidden secrets is executed with convincing subtlety.
The relationship dynamics between Raghu and Chaitali/Shikha also contribute significantly to the narrative. Initially marked by suspicion, their bond evolves into something more profound, shaped by a shared sense of isolation despite their contrasting social backgrounds. Both characters share stories of their past, each trying to convince the other—and the audience— of their truths. Just as viewers start to lean towards one version, Zincho enters with his enigmatic perspective, complicating the narrative further.
“Level Cross” is characterized by an underlying current of madness, making every character an unreliable narrator. This constant twist and turn in the storytelling keeps viewers on their toes, as the truth remains elusive. Just when comprehension seems within reach, another twist reconfigures the entire narrative, maintaining a grip on the viewer’s curiosity.
Arfaz Ayub, who has previously worked as an associate with renowned filmmaker Jeethu Joseph, utilizes a minimal cast, ensuring that the focus remains firmly on the narrative and character development. Despite the film’s strengths in acting and writing, “Level Cross” ultimately leaves a sense of unmet potential. This feeling is particularly poignant given the high expectations set by the association with Jeethu Joseph’s name prominently displayed during the opening credits.
Currently showing in theatres, “Level Cross” is a notable addition to Malayalam cinema, offering an ambitious but inconsistent psychological thriller experience. While the film’s clever writing and unexpected twists provide moments of brilliance, its overall pace and execution fall short of delivering a consistently gripping narrative.
In the end, “Level Cross” is both a testament to the potential of new-age Malayalam cinema and a reminder that even a well-scripted thriller can falter if not executed with the right tempo and intensity.
