As an actor, Fahadh Faasil consistently experiments with different characters and genres, but his recent box-office journey hasn't been particularly encouraging. After the phenomenal success of Aavesham (2024), the actor is yet to deliver another major commercial success as a solo lead. His Telugu film Don't Trouble the Trouble, directed by Shashank Yeleti, is another interesting experiment that brings fantasy, supernatural elements and comedy together. But does this unusual combination work?
The film has received mixed reports, and while it certainly has its share of shortcomings, dismissing it as a complete disappointment would be unfair. Don't Trouble the Trouble has some interesting ideas, particularly in its second half, and Fahadh Faasil's combination with child actor Ssara Palekar makes it an entertaining watch in parts. It may not be a compelling theatrical experience, but OTT viewers looking for something different could find a few reasons to give it a chance.
A fantasy story with an interesting central idea
Fahadh Faasil plays Suri, an ambulance driver who is ready to do almost anything to make money. He is essentially a fraudster who creates an impression that he possesses magical abilities to convince people. The initial portions focus on establishing his character and circumstances, but these sequences aren't particularly engaging.
The narrative gets an interesting twist when a little girl named Divya, played by Ssara Palekar, enters the picture. She is a spirit with extraordinary supernatural powers who is desperately trying to find her missing parents. Believing that Suri is a magician, she approaches him for help.
The idea of a supernatural child seeking assistance from a money-minded fraudster creates an interesting foundation for a fantasy entertainer. Their unusual association becomes the film's central attraction, with the fantasy and superpower elements gradually taking the story forward.
Fahadh Faasil and the child actor make it work
Fahadh Faasil is undoubtedly the biggest strength of the film. He brings his characteristic eccentricity and effortless acting style to Suri, making the character interesting despite his questionable intentions. The actor manages to keep the proceedings engaging even when the screenplay loses its grip.
Ssara Palekar's combination scenes with Fahadh are among the most enjoyable portions of the film. The chemistry between the two actors provides the emotional foundation that the story desperately needs. Saurabh Sachdeva, who plays Pratap, and Mahesh Manjrekar, who appears as Aslam Bhai, are also part of the supporting cast. Venkatesh Kakumanu adds to the film's ensemble.
Where the screenplay loses its grip
Despite having an interesting premise, Don't Trouble the Trouble doesn't completely capitalise on its potential. The initial portions take time to establish Suri's character, and the film could have reached its central fantasy conflict much earlier.
There are also logical questions surrounding Divya's supernatural abilities.The question of how the little girl acquired such powers and how she manages to use them to achieve her objectives could have been explored better.
The film also gives considerable importance to Suri's character, when the more interesting aspect is actually the little girl's journey to reunite with her parents. This is a story that could have worked particularly well as a children's fantasy film.
A tighter screenplay with greater emphasis on the emotional relationship between the two central characters would have made it more effective.
Fantasy films are among the most difficult genres to pull off, especially when the makers attempt to create a world that appeals to children as well as adult audiences. Malayalam cinema witnessed a major experiment in this space with Mohanlal's directorial debut Barroz. Despite the scale and ambition, Barroz failed to connect with audiences and eventually became a subject of considerable trolling.
Don't Trouble the Trouble is a considerably more engaging attempt, even though it has its own limitations. The film manages to offer some entertaining moments through its fantasy and supernatural elements.
Technical aspects
The technical departments provide adequate support to the film's fantasy setting. Brad Francis's cinematography helps establish the visual world, while Kaala Bhairava's music and background score complement the proceedings. Praveen Antony's editing keeps the narrative moving, although a tighter cut could have improved the overall experience.
Final verdict: A one-time watch with some enjoyable moments.
