Watched CTRL and here are some of my thoughts!
CTRL is a fresh and bold concept, especially for Bollywood. While it might remind some of Her, this film tackles social media addiction, resonating strongly with younger audiences.
The story follows Nella (Ananya Panday) as she finds a boyfriend, starts a social media channel, and rises to fame. This part of the film moves quickly and connects well with the Gen Z experience. However, after Nella’s breakup and the mysterious disappearance of her boyfriend, the plot takes a darker turn. This is where the CTRL AI, a smart app that initially helps Nella, slowly starts taking control of her life. The app’s subtle manipulation reflects the alarming reality of our dependence on technology.
The film builds tension effectively, transforming into a cautionary tale about tech addiction. Motwane’s direction is sharp and understated, avoiding melodrama while offering a sharp, engaging portrayal of influencer culture. The use of meme-inspired songs during breakup and comeback scenes adds a light, humorous touch in the film’s early stages, balancing the darker narrative that follows.
As the film progresses, it takes a darker turn with the introduction of CTRL, an AI app that gradually takes control of Nella’s life through subtle suggestions and influence, mirroring society’s increasing reliance on technology. The ending offers a powerful commentary on how the lines between the real and virtual worlds are becoming increasingly blurred, leaving the audience with plenty to reflect on.
Ananya Panday continues her winning streak. After making waves in Gehraiyaan and shining in Kho Gaye Hum Kahan, she delivers a standout performance in CTRL, embodying the Gen Z influencer perfectly. Right now, she faces little competition in this space, and she’s becoming the go-to actress for roles revolving around social media.
For Motwane, CTRL further proves his versatility as a director who isn’t afraid to explore different genres. From Udaan and Lootera to Bhavesh Joshi to AK vs AK and now CTRL, his films consistently deliver, though most have thrived on OTT platforms. While his intimate storytelling suits streaming, it would be exciting to see him take on a larger project for the big screen.
In short, CTRL is a thought-provoking film that offers a well-crafted narrative on the dangers of social media addiction, while still being thoroughly entertaining.
Leave a Reply