5D Movie Review: 5D is a refreshing departure from S Narayan’s signature style

5D marks a significant milestone in S Narayan's illustrious career, serving as his 50th directorial venture in the Kannada film industry. Departing from his usual style, Narayan delves into darker themes while still employing his signature familial sentiments and humour into the narrative.

Director: S Narayan
Cast: Aditya, Aditi Prabhudeva, S Narayan, and Jyothi Rai

Set in the village of Bevinakolla, the film kicks off with a string of murders, leaving over 1,300 dead, including the formidable village head. S Narayan plays a resolute cop named Abhinandan, who along with the protagonist (Aditya), solve these gruesome crimes.

What unfolds is a gripping tale of mystery and suspense, spanning nearly two and a half decades as Abhinandan relentlessly pursues the truth behind the murders. Meanwhile, the surviving kin of the victims hatch a plan for vengeance, adding another layer of complexity to the plot.

One of the film's strengths lies in its exploration of the blood mafia territory, as Narayan ventures into uncharted territory, infusing the narrative with suspense and intrigue. However, despite the film's ambitious aspirations, some aspects fall short of expectations. While blood donation symbolizes the noble act of saving lives, 5D takes a daring turn by delving into the dark underbelly of the blood mafia. Through a gripping narrative, the director sheds light on the sinister realities that can lurk behind seemingly altruistic endeavours. However, while the film's focus on the blood mafia may seem thinly showcased, it serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of blood donation.

Adithya, who marks his 25th film in the industry with 5D, shines as a beacon of strength for the film by breathing life into his character. On the other hand, Aditi Prabhudeva's portrayal lacks the impact needed to fully engage the audience. Similarly, the mother-son subplot with Aditya and Jyothi Rai adds depth to the storyline, but is conventionally treated.

Nevertheless, 5D offers a refreshing departure from Narayan's signature style, in a way that still satisfies his fans, with a darker and more intense narrative than his previous endeavors. Despite its imperfections, the film signifies an intriguing evolution in the veteran director's cinematic journey.