Hide And Seek

Plot: A diligent detective from the Central Crime Branch (CCB) is out to nab an organised criminal gang who are behind a series of extortion cases

Review: The plot begins with a cop calling a meeting at an undisclosed location. He is trying his best to solve a kidnapping case that has been orchestrated by an organised crime group that is known for immaculate planning and leaving no traces.

The situation takes a shocking turn when two young girls, Hasini (played by Dhanya Ramkumar) and her sister, are snatched by a gang led by Anoop Revanna. Anoop, however, is merely a pawn, following orders from an unnamed higher-up. The girls' fathers, who are brothers locked in a bitter feud over company shares, unwittingly set the entire operation in motion. They hire the gang to kidnap their own nieces, hoping to gain leverage in their corporate battle. But their plan backfires. As things spiral out of control, both fathers realise with chilling horror that their daughters have been kidnapped for a hefty ransom.

Meanwhile, Hasini falls in love with the kidnapper who doesn't reciprocate her feelings.

The content of Hide and Seek keeps you guessing about the next sequence. In the first half, it takes its time to establish the plot. It does pick up steam in the second half. Director Punith Nagaraj's crafty work with a near-perfect script shows a lot of promise. However, the ending becomes predictable. The narrative could have had more meat in the first half - this would have made it more interesting. The latter half of the story has enough twists and turns to keep the audience hooked. After a brief hiatus, Anoop Revanna shines in his role so does Dhanya Ramkumar. Overall, Hide and Seek is a good one-time watch.