Movie Review: Martin (2024)
Languages: Kannada, Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Bengali
Genre: Action, Thriller
Director: A. P. Arjun
Story: Arjun Sarja
Cast: Dhruva Sarja (dual roles), Vaibhavi Shandilya, Anveshi Jain, Sukrutha Wagle, Achyuth Kumar, Nikitin Dheer
Music: Mani Sharma (songs), Ravi Basrur (score)
Cinematography: Satya Hegde
Editing: K. M. Prakash, Praveen K Gowda
Runtime: 148 minutes
Rating: 2.2/10
Martin, directed by A. P. Arjun and penned by Arjun Sarja, is a Kannada-language action thriller featuring Dhruva Sarja in dual roles. Released on October 11, 2024, the film was anticipated to be a significant entry in the action genre but received mixed reviews for its storytelling and technical aspects.
Plot Summary
The film follows Arjun Saxena, an Indian Navy officer who loses his memory after being drugged during captivity in Pakistan. As he embarks on a quest to rediscover his identity, he encounters Martin, a gangster who bears a striking resemblance to him. The narrative unfolds with Arjun’s pursuit to uncover the truth about Martin and his own past, leading to a confrontation that blurs the lines between heroism and villainy.
Direction and Screenplay
A. P. Arjun’s direction attempts to blend patriotism with mass appeal, but the screenplay suffers from a lack of coherence and originality. The film’s structure relies heavily on action sequences, often at the expense of character development and narrative depth. Critics have noted that the film prioritizes spectacle over substance, resulting in a disjointed viewing experience.
Performances
Dhruva Sarja delivers a physically commanding performance, embodying both Arjun and Martin with distinct mannerisms. However, the script offers limited scope for emotional range, rendering his portrayal somewhat one-dimensional. Supporting actors, including Vaibhavi Shandilya and Anveshi Jain, are underutilized, serving primarily as narrative devices rather than fully fleshed-out characters.
Technical Aspects
Cinematographer Satya Hegde captures the film’s action set pieces with flair, but the visual effects are inconsistent, detracting from the overall impact. The editing by K. M. Prakash and Praveen K. Gowda could have been tighter to enhance the narrative flow. The soundtrack, composed by Mani Sharma with a score by Ravi Basrur, lacks memorable themes and fails to elevate the film’s emotional beats.
Strengths
- Dhruva Sarja’s physical performance in dual roles
- Ambitious action sequences
- High production values in certain set pieces
Weaknesses
- Predictable and clichéd storyline
- Underdeveloped characters and relationships
- Inconsistent visual effects and editing
- Lackluster musical score
- Overemphasis on action at the expense of narrative coherence
Final Verdict
Martin aspires to be a grand action spectacle but falls short due to its formulaic plot and uneven execution. While Dhruva Sarja’s dual performance showcases his physical capabilities, the film’s lack of narrative innovation and emotional depth limits its appeal. Viewers seeking a substantive action thriller may find Martin lacking in both heart and originality.
Recommended for
Fans of Dhruva Sarja and viewers interested in action-driven narratives with high production values, albeit with tempered expectations regarding story and character development.