Psycho was one of the most awaited Kannada films in the recent times mainly because of the huge success of the songs by Raghu Dixit.
Thankfully, the film lives up to the hype and expectations. In fact, it is a well packaged suspense thriller, perhaps one of the best films in the suspense genre in Kannada.
The story revolves around a young man (his name is not revealed at any point in the film) who prefers a lonely life. He stalks a girl called Pavana who has just got a job as a television anchor. Pavana slowly comes to know of her stalker who, she finds out, is very possessive of her and turns violent whenever somebody misbehaves or even sits near her. He interacts with her through his cellphone, whose number changes with every call. Pavana almost decides to meet him and propose to him when she gets a startling information about him and his background.
Director Devadatta has done his homework perfectly. His passion for literature helps him in the choice of poems he has used in the film. The lyrics written by Jayant Kaikini, V Manohar and Raghu Dixit clearly reflect the aspirations of the director to make a film that has lyrical value. The dialogues written by Devadatta are crisp.
What makes Psycho click with the audience is its unbelievable music and amazing cinematography. There is magic in Raghu's songs and also in the background score. The songs that rocked before the film's release are wonderfully picturised. Editor Kemparaj has also chipped in his efforts to keep the film interesting with razor sharp editing work.
Cameraman Sabha, who is making his debut in Kannada films, shows his brilliance behind the camera. The compositions of the shots and the background colours perfectly convey the mood of the film.
Director Devadatta has extracted good work from newcomers Dhanush and Anita, who we are sure to see more of in the future. Veteran artists Bali, Padmaja Rao and Kishor have also acted well.
But there are some minor aberrations too. For example, the characterisation of the hero and his uncle is little hazy. Plus, the suspense element jumps out of nowhere. It would have made more sense there was some kind of build up to the suspense.
All in all, Psycho is a must see for all those who love suspense.
Rediff Rating: