Drishyam (2015)

Detailed Summary

Introduction and Setting

Drishyam is a 2015 Indian Hindi-language thriller film directed by Nishikant Kamat, starring Ajay Devgn, Tabu, Shriya Saran, and Ishita Dutta. It is a remake of the 2013 Malayalam film of the same name. The story revolves around Vijay Salgaonkar, a simple cable TV operator, and his family’s involvement in an accidental crime, leading to a suspenseful cat-and-mouse game with the police.

The Story Unfolds

Vijay’s Family Life

The film begins with Vijay Salgaonkar (Ajay Devgn), a fourth-grade dropout who runs a cable TV service in a small Goan village. He lives a peaceful life with his wife, Nandini (Shriya Saran), and their two daughters, Anju (Ishita Dutta) and Anu. Vijay is an avid movie buff who spends his nights watching films in his office.

The Accidental Crime

Anju, Vijay’s elder daughter, is secretly filmed by a hidden camera while changing her clothes during a school nature camp. The culprit, Sameer “Sam” Deshmukh (Rishabh Chaddha), the son of IG Meera Deshmukh (Tabu), tries to blackmail her with the footage. During a confrontation at the Salgaonkar house, Anju accidentally kills Sam in self-defense. Vijay and his family are thrown into turmoil as they decide to cover up the crime to protect Anju.

The Climax and Resolution

The Perfect Alibi

Using his knowledge from watching crime thrillers, Vijay creates an elaborate alibi for his family. He meticulously destroys evidence and plants false leads to mislead the investigation. Vijay makes his family attend a religious festival and watch a movie, ensuring they are seen by multiple people to establish their presence away from the crime scene.

The Investigation

Meera Deshmukh, determined to find her missing son, uses her position to rigorously investigate the case. Despite her relentless efforts and the use of forceful interrogation tactics, she finds no concrete evidence against Vijay and his family. The police are baffled by the seemingly perfect alibi.

The Conclusion

The Revelation

The film reaches its climax when Meera discovers that Vijay has hidden Sam’s body in a newly constructed police station’s foundation. With no evidence left and unable to charge Vijay, the police are forced to close the case. The final scenes reveal Vijay’s calm demeanor and his unwavering commitment to protecting his family at all costs.

A New Beginning

The film ends with Vijay confessing to Meera that he indeed buried Sam’s body but did so to protect his family. Meera, defeated but understanding the lengths Vijay went to for his family, leaves him with a heavy heart. Vijay’s family, though traumatized, continues their lives with the hope of moving on from the ordeal.

Movie Ending

Drishyam ends with Vijay successfully protecting his family by outsmarting the police, highlighting his cleverness and determination. The film concludes with Vijay’s confession to Meera, bringing closure to the story while leaving the moral complexities of his actions open to interpretation.

Post-Credits Scene

There are no post-credits scenes in Drishyam.

Type of Movie

Drishyam is a thriller drama that combines elements of crime, suspense, and family dynamics, focusing on themes of morality, justice, and the lengths one will go to protect loved ones.

Cast

• Ajay Devgn as Vijay Salgaonkar
• Tabu as IG Meera Deshmukh
• Shriya Saran as Nandini Salgaonkar
• Ishita Dutta as Anju Salgaonkar
• Rishabh Chaddha as Sameer “Sam” Deshmukh
• Rajat Kapoor as Mahesh Deshmukh

Film Music and Composer

The film’s score was composed by Vishal Bhardwaj, with songs composed by Vishal Bhardwaj and lyricist Gulzar, enhancing the film’s suspenseful and emotional narrative.

Filming Locations

Drishyam was primarily filmed in various locations in Goa, India, providing an authentic and scenic backdrop for the story.

Awards and Nominations

Drishyam received several awards and nominations, including:

• Screen Awards: Won Best Actor (Critics) for Ajay Devgn, Best Story for Jeethu Joseph.
• Filmfare Awards: Nominated for Best Actor (Ajay Devgn) and Best Supporting Actress (Tabu).

Behind the Scenes Insights

• The film is a remake of the critically acclaimed Malayalam film Drishyam (2013), directed by Jeethu Joseph and starring Mohanlal.
• Ajay Devgn’s portrayal of Vijay Salgaonkar was praised for its depth and intensity, adding to his reputation as a versatile actor.
• Tabu’s performance as IG Meera Deshmukh received acclaim for its powerful and nuanced depiction of a grieving mother and determined police officer.

Inspirations and References

Drishyam is inspired by the original Malayalam film and reflects broader themes of justice, morality, and the influence of popular media on problem-solving and critical thinking.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

The final cut of Drishyam closely follows the narrative structure of the original Malayalam film, with some additional content and behind-the-scenes insights available in special editions and DVD releases.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

• Anju’s confrontation with Sam and the accidental killing.
• Vijay meticulously creating an alibi for his family.
• The intense interrogation scenes by Meera Deshmukh.
• The revelation of Sam’s body hidden in the police station’s foundation.

Iconic Quotes

• “Mere ghar walon ko kuch ho jaata, to mujhe bohot bura lagta.” – Vijay Salgaonkar
• “Kanoon andha hota hai, IG Meera Deshmukh nahi.” – Meera Deshmukh

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

• The film includes subtle nods to various crime thrillers and mystery novels, reflecting Vijay’s inspiration from popular media.
• The use of locations and timelines in creating the alibi showcases the attention to detail in the film’s narrative structure.

Trivia

• The film’s budget was approximately ₹38 crore, and it grossed over ₹110 crore worldwide, making it a commercial success.
• The success of the film led to its adaptation in several other languages, including Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada.
• The original Malayalam film Drishyam was also highly successful and critically acclaimed, contributing to the anticipation and success of the Hindi remake.

Why Watch?

Drishyam offers a gripping and emotionally charged portrayal of a family’s struggle to protect themselves against overwhelming odds, featuring standout performances, particularly by Ajay Devgn and Tabu, and masterful direction by Nishikant Kamat. Its blend of suspense, drama, and moral complexity makes it a must-watch for fans of thriller and crime dramas.

Director’s Other Movies

Nishikant Kamat also directed:

• Mumbai Meri Jaan (2008)
• Force (2011)
• Rocky Handsome (2016)
• Madaari (2016)

Recommended Films for Fans

• Kahaani (2012)
• Special 26 (2013)
• Badla (2019)
• Talvar (2015)
• Andhadhun (2018)