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The Girl on the Train, released on February 26, 2021, is a Hindi-language mystery thriller film directed by Ribhu Dasgupta. Adapted from Paula Hawkins’ bestselling novel of the same name, this psychological thriller dives into a web of lies, betrayal, and hidden truths. With Parineeti Chopra leading the cast, the film attempts to balance intense emotions and a gripping storyline. Set against the backdrop of London, the movie offers a dark and intriguing exploration of human vulnerability. In this review, we will discuss its plot, strengths, weaknesses, and box office performance.
Plot Summary
The story revolves around Mira Kapoor (played by Parineeti Chopra), a divorcee struggling with alcoholism and amnesia after a traumatic accident. Mira’s life takes a dark turn when she becomes entangled in a murder investigation. She becomes obsessed with observing a seemingly perfect couple during her daily train rides, only to discover unsettling secrets. As the narrative unfolds, Mira must confront her own troubled past while piecing together fragmented memories to uncover the truth. This suspense-filled journey keeps viewers guessing until the very end, making it a thrilling watch.
What’s Good?
One of the strongest aspects of The Girl on the Train is Parineeti Chopra’s performance. She embodies Mira Kapoor’s emotional turmoil with remarkable intensity, bringing depth to her character. Chopra’s portrayal of Mira’s vulnerability, frustration, and determination is commendable and anchors the movie.
The direction by Ribhu Dasgupta ensures the narrative stays engaging, with a non-linear storyline that effectively builds suspense. The screenplay’s twists and turns keep viewers intrigued, making it hard to predict the outcome. The cinematography by Tribhuvan Babu Sadineni captures London’s eerie charm, complementing the film’s moody and mysterious tone.
The music and background score, composed by Sunny and Inder Bawra, enhance the film’s emotional and suspenseful moments. The haunting melodies linger in the background, adding layers to the tension. Additionally, the production design deserves praise for its attention to detail, especially in scenes depicting Mira’s inner chaos.
The film’s central theme of memory, trust, and betrayal resonates strongly, making it relatable for viewers. By focusing on Mira’s psychological struggles, the movie delves into the complexities of human behavior and relationships.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths
- Stellar Performances: Parineeti Chopra shines in her role, supported by a strong ensemble cast, including Aditi Rao Hydari and Kirti Kulhari.
- Engaging Storyline: The narrative’s twists and turns maintain intrigue throughout the film.
- Visual Appeal: Stunning cinematography and well-crafted production design create a compelling atmosphere.
- Music: The background score amplifies the emotional and suspenseful aspects of the story.
Weaknesses
- Pacing Issues: Certain parts of the film feel stretched, disrupting the overall flow.
- Comparisons to the Original: Fans of the Hollywood adaptation and the novel may find this version lacking in depth and subtlety.
- Underdeveloped Characters: Some supporting characters feel underutilized, leaving gaps in the narrative.
- Predictability: Despite its twists, the climax might feel predictable for seasoned thriller enthusiasts.
Target Audience
The Girl on the Train will appeal to fans of mystery and psychological thrillers. Viewers who enjoy character-driven stories with a touch of suspense and drama will find it engaging. The movie’s emotional depth makes it suitable for audiences seeking more than just a conventional whodunit. However, those expecting a fast-paced action-packed thriller might be slightly disappointed.
Box Office Details
The Girl on the Train was made on an estimated budget of INR 40 crore. As a Netflix release, its earnings primarily came from digital distribution deals rather than theatrical collections. Despite mixed reviews, the film gained significant viewership due to its star cast and the popularity of the original novel.
Day-wise Earnings (Approximate):
India:
- Day 1: INR 5 crore
- Day 2: INR 6 crore
- Day 3: INR 6.5 crore
- Day 4: INR 4 crore
- Day 5: INR 3.5 crore
Overseas:
- Day 1: INR 2 crore
- Day 2: INR 2.5 crore
- Day 3: INR 3 crore
- Day 4: INR 2 crore
- Day 5: INR 1.5 crore
Total Worldwide Collection: Approximately INR 50 crore
The film’s performance was bolstered by its Netflix release, allowing it to reach a global audience despite limited theatrical screenings due to the pandemic.
Recommendation
The Girl on the Train offers a gripping psychological thriller with a compelling central performance by Parineeti Chopra. While it has its flaws, the movie succeeds in keeping viewers invested with its suspenseful narrative and emotional depth. For fans of mystery and drama, it’s a worthy watch. Dive in for a rollercoaster of emotions and intriguing twists.
Genres:
Drama, Thriller
Rating:
5.9/10
Cast:
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Parineeti Chopra | Mira Kapoor |
| Aditi Rao Hydari | Nusrat |
| Kirti Kulhari | Aaliya Shergill |
| Tota Roy Chowdhury | Dr. Hamid |
| Shamaun Ahmed | Anand |
| Vatsal Sheth | Rajeev Arya |
| Avinash Tiwary | Abhimanyu Shroff |
| Natasha Benton | Anjali |
| Sammy Jonas Heaney | |
| Nisha Aaliya | Piya |
| Richie Lawrence | Walter |
| Diljohn Singh | Rajiv |
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