1888

"1888" is a captivating thriller that unfolds against the backdrop of India's tumultuous Demonetization era. Directed by Sourabh Shukla (debut feature film), the story follows three unlikely characters whose paths collide in pursuit of a large sum of cash. What starts as a simple transaction quickly escalates into a gripping cat-and-mouse game, as unexpected twists and turns keep the audience on the edge of their seats.

Shukla's direction is commendable, weaving together a complex narrative with skillful precision. Despite his lack of formal training or experience in the film industry, he demonstrates a keen eye for storytelling and a knack for creating tension and suspense. The film's pacing is well-balanced, allowing for moments of quiet introspection as well as adrenaline-fueled action sequences.

The ensemble cast delivers strong performances, bringing depth and authenticity to their characters. As the stakes escalate, the dynamics between the characters become increasingly tense, leading to unexpected alliances and betrayals. Each actor brings a unique energy to their role, adding layers of complexity to the narrative.

Overall, "1888" is a gripping thriller that keeps viewers guessing until the very end. Sourabh Shukla's debut feature showcases his talent as a filmmaker, offering a fresh perspective on the complexities of human nature and the consequences of greed. It's a must-watch for fans of suspenseful cinema.

When you get ready to watch a thriller, you want your pulse racing - right from start to the end. What about logic in all of that thrill? Yes, 1888 has it - that's what makes it so good! Debutante director Saurabh Shukla's story line and attention to detail is truly impressive. None of the actors stand out from the rest, and yet, all of them were so real, just like you, the viewer. Wonderful cinematography too. I guess that's what makes a film an immersive experience!

An artist from CAVA (Government Arts College in Mysore) once told me that an artist can only create honestly what he/she has experienced and/or truly believes in. Through 1888, Shukla gave his belief the glory it genuinely deserves. What is that belief I'm talking about? Go, go watch the film to know!

Let me be honest and add one more point here. Shukla is my college friend - intelligent and extremely active. But am I writing this review for him? No. I really enjoyed the movie and I would like others to have a great time too, that's it.

This film requires you to keep up, keeps you glued to the edge of your seat without taking away from the narration one bit. 1888 is an action thriller that unapologetically looks at corruption, the effects of demonetisation, the hunger of small time criminals overcoming and consuming bigger criminals.

There are certain scenes that are poetically beautiful even if they are raw, eg a little hoodle in search of smoking paper uses the then demonetized 2000 rupees not to smoke up, cleverly commenting on the worth and worthlessness of money in one small puff.

The director, cast and crew have done a fantastic job creating a very engaging film with action scenes, high speed car chases and melodious songs to carry the narrative ahead. 1888 is a must watch.

1888 is a bold attempt at indie filmmaking, but it's not for everyone. Shot entirely in guerrilla style, the film banks on its raw visuals and real-world backdrop of India's 2016 demonetization. The story revolves around three unlikely characters-a superstar with political aspirations, an insurance agent overwhelmed by life, and a mysterious stranger-thrust together over a bag of cash. The narrative spirals into a chaotic cat-and-mouse chase, peppered with twists and turns.

While the concept is intriguing, the execution wavers. The guerrilla style adds authenticity but also exposes the film's limitations, with certain scenes feeling drawn-out and indulgent. The pacing struggles, testing the patience of viewers who expect more urgency in a thriller. The script, though ambitious, occasionally meanders, making it hard to stay fully invested in the plot.

That said, 1888 has its moments of brilliance, especially in its unpredictable story and strong performances. It's a film that rewards patience but demands effort from its audience. For those who appreciate experimental cinema, this is a daring attempt; for others, it might feel like a bumpy ride that doesn't always justify the journey.

1888 takes us on a riveting journey through the labyrinthine alleys of the dark web, where anonymity breeds both danger and salvation.

The film plunges headlong into the murky depths of the dark web. Our protagonists, unwittingly drawn into this digital underworld, grapple with their own shadows. The tension escalates as they chase elusive leads, their keystrokes echoing like gunshots in cyberspace.

Guerilla Filmmaking: 1888 defies convention. Sourabh Shukla, the visionary director, adopts a guerilla-style approach. Armed with handheld cameras, he infiltrates real locations-seedy backstreets, abandoned warehouses, and dimly lit cyber cafes. The result? Raw, unfiltered authenticity. The camera trembles as if it, too, fears exposure. The actors-amateurs and professionals alike-immerse themselves in their roles, blurring the line between reel and reality.

Neethu Shetty's Enigma: Neethu Shetty, our enigmatic lead, embodies vulnerability and resilience. As she deciphers cryptic clues, we witness her transformation from a curious bystander to a reluctant hero. Neethu's performance is a masterclass in subtlety- a dance on the razor's edge.

The pulse of the Bengaluru city itself becomes a character-an accomplice and adversary. Bengaluru's neon-lit streets pulse with life, concealing treachery beneath their glittering façade. The rain-soaked boulevards reflect fractured souls, and the traffic hums like a digital heartbeat. The city breathes, sighs, and whispers its own secrets.

1888 is a daring plunge into the abyss. It's not just a movie; it's an experience-an encrypted file waiting for decryption. Watching it feels like sitting on a edge, immerse yourself in its shadows, and let the dark web weave its spell.