Rating: 3 Stars
‘Toby’ Kannada film starring Raj B Shetty & Chaithra J Achar will initially test your patience with its ultra-slow pace but still manages to hold your interest nevertheless. Though unconventional, Toby is a typical off-beat movie with situational action, slang, and violence being the few masala elements. The highlight of this movie is Raj B Shetty’s award-winning performance even without uttering a word. He is in top form once again after Garuda Gamana Vrishabha Vahana though in Toby his character is totally different from what he has played so far. Very complex and he has underplayed himself very well. Chaithra J Achar too gets a well-written role and her performance is top class.
In the first half, the movie takes its own sweet time to build momentum. But post interval the story moves forward pretty well with some twists. The high voltage climax though predictable leaves an impression that will have a positive word of mouth for the film.
Samyukta Hornad (as prostitute) and Gopalkrishna Deshpande (as Toby’s friend) also give impactful performances. Raj Deepak Shetty has given a power packed performance as a villain. Child artiste Snigdha Shetty is excellent as Toby’s young daughter. Bharath GB and Yathish Baikampady as police officers have acted very well.
Director Basil AL Chalakkal’s direction of this raw and realistic movie is praiseworthy. Praveen Shriyan’s cinematography and With all the pre release hype Toby had created if you expect a typical masala film you will be disappointed. This film is not for all. Sentimental scenes and the emotional bonding between the lead characters will be liked by everyone. It’s a must watch film for unconventional off beat film lovers and also who like good quality cinema.
By: Aldrin Vaz
