Not Out Movie Review: Ravishankar Starrer Is A Gripping Pandemic Era Tale Of Humanity Overcoming Greed

Rating: 3.5/5

Not Out Movie Review: Filmmaker Ambarisha's 'Not Out’ is set during the Covid-19 pandemic, focusing on the victory of good over evil. The film highlights humanity's importance over greed and power. The narrative centres around Devaraj (Ravishankar), a merciless money lender whose relentless quest for wealth leads him to exploit his debtors.

Among those suffering under Devaraj's tyranny are Ajaya, an ambulance driver struggling with loan repayment, and Sridhar, who has lost his ancestral property to Devaraj's illegal actions. When Sridhar and Ajaya cross paths, Sridhar devises a plan to use Ajaya to eliminate Devaraj and reclaim his property.

Plot Twists and Character Development

The story unfolds with numerous twists, questioning whether Sridhar will succeed in his plan and if Ajaya can repay his loan amidst the lockdown. The film keeps viewers engaged through its character-driven narrative. The first half introduces the characters and their backgrounds, setting up a suspenseful second half.

The film is told through flashbacks, making the narrative itself a central character. Despite being a thriller, it avoids unnecessary action sequences, focusing instead on building tension through its plot. The director skillfully uses humour to break the monotony, maintaining a balance throughout the film.

Performance and Music

Ravishankar and Gopalkrishna Deshpande deliver captivating performances. Sudhir and Rachana also fit seamlessly into their roles. However, Ajaya struggles to convey emotions convincingly at times. Judah Sandy’s music composition enhances the overall experience, perfectly aligning with the film’s theme.

While 'Not Out’ may not be a nail-biting thriller, it successfully keeps the audience invested in the characters' journeys. Certain scenes stretch credibility, such as gatherings and pub activities during lockdowns, which seem illogical.

The film ultimately serves as an engaging weekend family entertainer. It balances suspense with humour and avoids unnecessary action sequences. Despite some implausible scenes, it remains an enjoyable watch due to strong performances and fitting music.