BAD Movie Review: An exploration of human vices and the flaws within

PC Shekar's BAD takes viewers on a complex, psychological journey, tackling the intricate battle within the human mind. The title itself carries a negative connotation, setting the tone for a film that explores six destructive qualities of the human psyche—collectively known as Arishadvargas. These six vices—Kama (Lust), Krodha (Anger), Lobha (Greed), Moha (Delusion), Mada (Ego), and Matsarya (Envy)—serve as the foundation for the story, creating a compelling framework through which the narrative unfolds.

The film opens with the image of a man, alone in the dark, digging a grave only to cut off his hand. This bizarre introduction sets the stage for various characters, each personifying one or more of the six vices. The story revolves around MLA Narasimha (Jagadish Mallanad), who is being pursued by the others—each driven by their vices as they race to capture Narasimha for different reasons. However, the characters are trapped by their mental struggles, creating an atmosphere where the lines between good and evil become blurred.

Director: PC Shekar

Cast: Nakul Gowda, Manvita Kamath, Apoorva Bharadwaj, Sai Krishna

and Manjunath Kokate

Politician Manisharma (Kaddipudi Chandru) is on the lookout for Naga (Sai Krishna) and tasks Vedha (Nakul Gowda), a local rowdy, with finding him. However, Vedha has his own reasons for finding Naga, and the people with him, as he shares a dark past with them. Along the way, Vedha is joined by his friend (Manjunath Kokkate), and he ends up in a place where he is aware that the culprits will eventually show up. The situation spirals into chaos as the characters clash, each motivated by their vices. Eventually, the tables are turned, and they find themselves ensnared by their actions.

BAD employs the technique of the Rashomon effect, where the same event is shown from different perspectives. This storytelling approach, though rare in Kannada cinema, explains the unpredictability of the film. Each character’s actions and motivations are intricately tied to their respective vices, and their interactions offer an interesting exploration of human nature and morality. This exploration leaves the audience to question whether the characters are simply victims of their mental afflictions, culminating in a revenge-driven cycle that unearths the destructive power of unchecked emotions and desires.

There are strong and weak performances in BAD, but they all add to the film’s thematic exploration. Among the limited characters, Apoorva Bharadwaj’s portrayal of Anu is particularly notable, as her character navigates a maze of emotions, and manipulative decisions that highlight the darker aspects of human nature.

Nakul Gowda, who plays Vedha, is convincing in his role, portraying a character consumed by revenge. His journey underscores how the vices of the mind can cloud judgment and propel individuals into destructive paths, and Nakul’s portrayal of Vedha sometimes feels influenced particularly by a Kannada hero's traits, especially with his voice modulations. Manvita Kamath’s portrayal of Pavi depicts how personal tragedy and weaknesses can spiral into unforeseen consequences.

The film also features an English song, “Breathe for Hope,” which enhances the somber tone of the story. The music effectively complements the dark atmosphere.

BAD is all about moral ambiguity. The film does not present a clear-cut division between good and evil. Instead, it challenges the audience to confront the fact that every character—no matter how villainous—acts out of deeply human flaws. The film makes you wonder whether someone can be blamed for their actions when they are driven by the negative traits of the mind? The characters’ flaws prevent them from finding peace, leading to a reflection on the destructive nature of these inner demons.

Despite its many strengths, BAD is not without its flaws. It occasionally feels repetitive, as the narrative circles around the same issue. The film’s relatively short duration also means that certain aspects are underdeveloped.

In the end, BAD is an ambitious exploration of the human condition. Through its complex characters, unique narrative structure, and philosophical underpinnings, the film challenges viewers to confront the darker aspects of their own nature. However, despite its thought-provoking themes and strong performances, it occasionally falters in its execution. Nonetheless, BAD examines the human mind and the eternal struggle between our desires and ability to choose righteousness over vice