Movie Review: Murphy

Rating: 4/5 Stars

“Murphy,” directed by BSP Varma, offers a thoughtful and poignant take on the sci-fi genre, blending time travel with rich emotional depth. Starring Prabhu Mundkur as David Murphy, alongside Roshini Prakash and Ila Veermala, the film delves into relationships, loss, and the tantalizing “what ifs” that arise when the past can be revisited.

The central narrative revolves around a man, David Murphy, who discovers a way to time travel using an old radio. The radio becomes a conduit, connecting two different timelines and offering David the opportunity to interact with his past. However, unlike many sci-fi films that rush through the thrills of time travel, “Murphy” takes its time, allowing viewers to savor each moment. The director’s choice to move at a slower pace stands out, offering a rare kind of patience that allows emotional nuances to unfold gradually. This makes the film feel more intimate, almost like experiencing a slow-burn radio drama, a stark contrast to the fast-paced entertainment we’re accustomed to in the digital age.

One of the standout aspects of the film is its subtle visual storytelling. Early in the movie, a dimly lit repair shop scene features an old radio with two knobs that resemble eyes, giving the machine an eerie, human-like quality. This creative touch foreshadows the radio’s role as more than just a device—it’s almost a character of its own, bridging time and emotions. The story, while reminiscent of films like Frequency and Back to the Future, is far from a thriller. Instead, it’s a meditative exploration of human connections across time: between father and son, grandfather and grandson, boyfriend and girlfriend, and even teacher and student.

Prabhu Mundkur shines as David Murphy, portraying a man grappling with the grief of losing his father. His performance is understated yet powerful, allowing audiences to deeply feel his emotional journey. The supporting cast, including Roshini Prakash and Ila Veermala, delivers solid performances that enhance the film’s emotional weight. The relationships portrayed in Murphy are the heart of the movie, with each connection adding layers to the story without overshadowing the central plot.

While Murphy is visually and emotionally captivating, it does have its drawbacks. The film’s slower pace, while deliberate, might not appeal to viewers seeking fast-paced action. Additionally, some aspects of the story, especially the impact of David’s time-altering decisions on the people around him, could have been explored more deeply. This lack of exploration leaves certain emotional threads feeling somewhat unresolved, and the poetic storytelling can occasionally feel overdrawn.

That being said, Murphy is undeniably a beautifully crafted film, with stunning cinematography by Adara R that enhances its emotional depth. It’s not a race against time, but rather a reflection on what it means to play with time, to revisit the past, and to yearn for closure. If you’re a fan of emotionally charged dramas with a touch of sci-fi, Murphy is a must-watch.

Final Verdict:

A bittersweet, leisurely-paced film that makes you ponder life’s “what ifs” with a poetic touch. Murphy offers a refreshing, slow-burn experience that’s both classy and emotionally resonant. A solid 4 out of 5.