Genre: Drama, Comedy
Director: Ayush Malli
Cast: Aditya G., Jagadeesh K., Durgappa Kambli, Renuka Desai
Duration: 1h 50m
Rating: 9.9/10 (IMDb)
Age Rating: U/A (Suitable for ages 13+)A Story Rooted in Innocence and Reality

A Story Rooted in Innocence and Reality

Puppy is not just a story about a lost pet—it’s a deeper look into the life of migrant workers and their children who struggle to find identity and belonging in the rapidly growing cityscape of Bengaluru. Set against the backdrop of construction sites and urban transformation, the film centers around Parshya and Aadi, two young boys who have recently moved with their families from Raichur to the city in search of better opportunities.

What begins as a seemingly simple narrative soon turns into a contemplative tale of childhood curiosity, urban hardship, and the growing pains of displacement.

What Works Well

Authentic Casting and Performances: The film features non-professional child actors from North Karnataka, whose performances lend the movie a natural, unpolished charm. Their dialect, expressions, and interactions feel genuinely reflective of the lives they represent.
Grounded Setting: The construction site and the workers’ housing are depicted with remarkable realism, showing the challenges of living on the margins of a booming metropolis.
Visual Storytelling: Subtle framing and minimalist cinematography bring out the children’s point of view. Moments like their fascination with the city or their attempts to understand adult decisions are handled with care.
Symbolism of Puppy: The titular dog represents more than just a pet—it becomes a metaphor for value, innocence, and what gets lost in transition, both literally and emotionally.

Where It Falls Short

Emotional Underdevelopment: While the story has all the right elements to tug at heartstrings, it doesn’t fully commit to exploring the emotional depth of the characters. The bond between Parshya and Puppy, which should form the emotional anchor, feels rushed.
Abrupt Climax: The ending takes a dramatic turn that feels slightly disconnected from the restrained tone of the rest of the film. The tension builds, but the payoff isn’t as powerful as it could be.
Narrative Pacing: At times, the story lingers too long on the observational, leaving key emotional beats underexplored.

Final Verdict

Puppy is a sincere and visually thoughtful film that offers a glimpse into the world of migrant children navigating a new life in the city. It captures the innocence of childhood beautifully and subtly addresses social themes like class divide, displacement, and familial bonding.

However, with a more emotionally resonant arc and stronger focus on the central relationship, the film could have left a deeper impact. Still, it remains a commendable effort that deserves appreciation for its honesty and grounded storytelling.