Is 'Test' Really a Page From Virat Kohli's Life?
The Netflix release has arrived to mixed reviews.
The new Tamil movie Test has arrived on Netflix to mixed reception from critics.
The performances of the leads have been praised by critics and viewers alike, the film's pacing and predictability in the screenplay has also received some flak. The film features R Madhavan, Nayanthara, Siddharth, and Meera Jasmine, marking her return to Tamil cinema after a decade.
The film has a cricket background. Directed by debutant S Sashikanth, Test seems to have drawn inspiration from an important moment in Indian legend Virat Kohli's life. Ahead of the release, the director in promotional interviews revealed that the former Indian captain's decision to play a Ranji Trophy match for Delhi despite the passing of his father at the age of 18 served as a key influence to the story. "This incident shaped the narrative's exploration of resilience and sacrifice, particularly through the character of Arjun Venkatraman, portrayed by Siddharth," he said.
Test's plot intertwines the lives of three individuals—a struggling scientist (R Madhavan), a teacher yearning for motherhood (Nayanthara), and an out-of-form cricketer (Siddharth) — against the backdrop of an India-Pakistan Test match. Themes of ambition, sacrifice, and moral dilemmas are central to the story. Madhavan's portrayal of Saravanan, and the nuanced character writing has come in much praise.
Siddharth's character, Arjun Venkatraman, mirrors Virat Kohli's real-life resilience, particularly in his unwavering commitment to the game despite personal tragedy. This connection adds an authentic layer to the narrative, making it relatable for cricket fans familiar with Kohli's journey. The film uses the backdrop of an India-Pakistan Test match not just to heighten drama but also to explore broader societal pressures and ethical dilemmas. Each character's story intertwines with the match, creating a parallel between the unpredictability of life and the uncertainties of the game.
The movie subtly critiques the commercial and political pressures that often overshadow the purity of sports. It sheds light on how athletes and individuals alike must navigate these dynamics while staying true to their values.
Shot primarily in Chennai and Bengaluru, the movie boasts music by Shakthisree Gopalan and cinematography by Viraj Singh Gohil.
Test is premiered directly on Netflix in multiple languages, including Tamil, Hindi, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada.
