Officer on Duty: Gritty Storyline, Technically Sound, But Yet Another Trope Cinema
In an era where on-screen police officers are often seen to be weighed down by past traumas, ‘Officer on Duty’ doesn’t shy away from embracing the trope. Yet, what sets Jithu Ashraf’s directorial debut apart is how organically it integrates CI Harishankar’s (Kunchacko Boban) troubled history into the storyline, making it feel essential rather than contrived. Hari is no conventional hero—he’s ruthless, unfiltered, and unrepentant, even when it comes to roughing up suspects. He doesn’t seek approval, nor does he offer apologies. His introduction paints him in a borderline repulsive light, snapping at subordinates and resorting to violence without hesitation. But as the story unfolds, we begin to understand the weight he carries, and the screenplay masterfully manipulates our perceptions, forcing us to rethink our judgments.
Screenwriter Shahi Kabir, known for Joseph and Nayattu as well as his directorial debut Ela Veezha Poonchira, once again demonstrates his understanding of police work which is very realistic and raw in nature. However, his depiction of the criminal underworld falls into familiar typecasts, with the drug dealers being reduced to cliched snarling villains. The film’s antagonists—drug peddlers portrayed as stereotypical, tattooed, hoodie-wearing villains—feel disappointingly one-dimensional. For seasoned fans of police procedurals, ‘Officer on Duty’ may strike a familiar chord, occasionally mirroring the beats of films like Grandmaster. Yet, its gripping execution keeps you locked in.
The story kicks off with CI Harishankar investigating what seems like a minor case of counterfeit gold jewellery. However, just as he believes he’s closing in, the case takes a sinister turn, unexpectedly unraveling a disturbing POCSO investigation. What starts as a routine case quickly unravels into a dark network of drug trafficking, sex crimes, and brutal exploitation. The film packs in tension, action, and a chilling sense of realism.
The first half of the film is relentless, with the screenplay weaving through incidents seamlessly, leaving the audience breathless with its breakneck pacing. However, the last act doesn’t quite match the momentum, relying heavily on action sequences and a well-executed cat-and-mouse game rather than narrative propulsion. Even so, the film manages to stay engaging, largely due to Kunchacko Boban’s riveting performance.
Kunchacko Boban delivers one of his most powerful performances to date with a raw, rugged, and deeply layered portrayal of CI Harishankar. What truly sets him apart in this role is his ability to humanize a character who, on the surface, is deeply flawed. His performance anchors the film, elevating it beyond the standard police procedural.
But here’s the unsettling truth—this is yet another crime thriller that feeds on the horrors inflicted upon women and children. Assault, abuse, and sexual violence drive the narrative, reinforcing the familiar trope: women as victims, men as aggressors, and the ever-righteous male cop seeking justice. The film does not hold back in its depiction of brutality, forcing the audience to confront the darkest corners of crime. But it also raises an uncomfortable question—why does mainstream cinema keep returning to the same formula? Are we so desensitized to violence against women that it has become a storytelling staple?
Yet, where the film truly excels is in its technical execution. Roby Varghese Raj’s cinematography is striking, particularly in its use of lighting and framing to enhance tension. The action sequences are impeccably choreographed, maintaining a sense of realism without sacrificing impact. Jakes Bejoy’s background score further amplifies the intensity, ensuring that the film’s atmosphere remains gripping throughout.
The supporting cast delivers commendable performances, with Priyamani as Harishankar’s wife bringing depth to her role and Jagadish as Chandrababu offering a poignant turn. Priyamani’s character had the potential for a deeper emotional arc, but the film never fully explores her journey. A more nuanced exploration of her trauma would have added significant emotional weight to the film. The female characters within the villainous circle stand out as well, breaking traditional stereotypes by being both physically and emotionally formidable.
At its core, ‘Officer on Duty’ is more than just an investigative thriller—it’s a psychological exploration of trauma and its repercussions. The film leaves us questioning whether extrajudicial justice is ever truly justified, making it more than just another cop drama. It may not reinvent the genre, but with its gripping screenplay, immersive cinematography, and intense performances, ‘Officer on Duty’ proves to be a compelling watch on big screens.
For Kunchacko Boban, this is yet another testament to his evolving filmography. The ‘chocolate hero’ of yesteryears has been left far behind—this is a performance that is raw, unfiltered, and unrelenting, once again proving that he has firmly established himself as a powerhouse performer in Malayalam cinema.
