“C U Soon” is a movie about Dubai-based Jimmy (Roshan Mathew) who falls in love with Anu (Darshana Rajendran) after they meet on Tinder. Jimmy proposes to Anu on a video call as his family watches from across the world. His worried mother (MaalaParvathi) asks her nephew Kevin (Fahadh Faasil), a cyber sleuth in the US, to verify Anu’s antecedents.
Just when it seems that the couple is ready to take the next step, a twist emerges with Anu’s disappearance from Jimmy’s home. There is more to it than meets the eye, prompting the Sherlock Holmes in Kevin to come alive. His digital-forensic skills are used to the maximum.
The plot thereafter is predictable. However, the movie’s intelligent use of digital communication devices ensures the audience does not stop paying attention. Suspense is a by-product of the innovation.
The screenplay rests entirely on computer screens and mobile devices. The dialogue comprises of text messages or video chats. At any given point, there are two cameras at work – the one of the image capturing device connecting actors at two ends and the other of the master movie camera. Both complement each other without getting in the other’s way. Only editing of a high standard could have achieved that.
Additionally, C U Soon captures technology’s tremendous scope in searching, finding and deliberating. One is amazed at the speed and efficiency with which Kevin deciphers the truth with his nimble fingers on the keypad. The film’s extensive use of Google searches, Maps, WhatsApp chats and Hang Outs reminds me of what someone once said, namely, that technology has made “knowing” irrelevant. After watching “C U Soon” I could not agree more.
For millennials familiar with mobile jargon, the title ‘C U Soon’ would make perfect sense and the screenplay seem natural. However, even for those not comfortable with dating apps or social media platforms, the movie manages to be engaging.
Despite its unimaginative plot, I would commend Mahesh Narayanan for attempting such a challenging genre. The movie was made so that a set of film makers could earn money during the lockdown. Remarkably, they have not disappointed and the audience never feels the lack of sets, travel and exotic locales. Far from being a disadvantage, Social Distancing is used creatively.
Fahad Faasil’s composure and subtle expressions complement Roshan Mathew’s impulsiveness. The latter’s fly-by-night love affairs remind you of the exuberance of youth. Darshana Rajendran deserves applause for a solid performance.
“C U Soon” is truly a movie meant for the lockdown period. In addition to teasing your brain and making you see film-making in a new light, it reminds you that movies offer a glimmer of hope in challenging times.
Kanishka Uncensored 