Mask Movie Review – Unique Tale, Interesting in parts

MASK follows Velu, a money-driven private detective who exploits every situation for financial gain. Though separated from his wife and caring for a child, he drifts into an unexpected bond with Rathi, a woman trapped in a marriage she no longer wants. Parallel to this is Bhoomi, a woman who publicly champions the rights of abused women but secretly operates a darker enterprise, using the same women to satisfy the demands of powerful politicians while keeping incriminating evidence on record. When a politician entrusts her with ₹440 crores to distribute discreetly, she hides the money in her supermarket. A masked gang raids the store, and Velu inadvertently stumbles upon the crime scene. Soon after, he discovers a mask in Rathi’s husband’s bag and realises he may have crossed paths with the real culprit. The rest of the film tracks Velu’s attempt to untangle the robbery, uncover the motive behind the stolen fortune, and survive the fallout.

Analysis 

Debutant director Vikarnan Ashok builds an intriguing world with sharply designed characters. Though the film borrows the mask-heist aesthetic of Money Heist, its robbery motive lands convincingly and fuels an engaging climax. The director stages the final reveal with flair, earning genuine appreciation. However, the screenplay occasionally meanders; a few muddled narrative transitions dilute the suspense. The editing moves at an almost restless pace, creating confusion where clarity was needed. A slower, more composed rhythm might have enhanced engagement.

Performances 

Kavin and Andrea shine in roles that reject stereotypical moral binaries. Kavin embraces a protagonist who openly admits he is no saint, and the character fits him with striking accuracy. Andrea’s calculating, intelligent portrayal adds weight to the film’s darker layers, and their confrontational moments work effectively. The film’s greatest novelty lies in portraying every major character as self-serving, leaving the middle-class individuals caught in their crossfire. This angle adds bite to the narrative, and the climax elevates it further.

Technical Aspects 

On the technical front, G.V. Prakash Kumar delivers a strong climactic track that amplifies the final act, though the background score elsewhere lacks the same intensity. The songs are impressive, and Shreyas Krishna’s cinematography stands as one of the film’s most persuasive strengths. The editing, however, could have benefitted from more patience and precision to avoid confusion in key sequences.

MASK wears a familiar face yet offers enough moments of intrigue and attitude to hold attention. It is neither exceptional nor disappointing, simply a competent thriller with flashes of style.