Title – Apple Cut, Producer – Shilpa Prasanna, Director – Sindhu Gowda, Music – Veer Samarth, Cinematography – Rajesh Gowda R, Cast – Surya Gowda, Bala Rajwadi, Ashwini, Appanna, Amrutha, Abhijit, Meenakshi, and others.
Another competent woman director has arrived on the big screen. Sindhu Gowda, daughter of veteran director Raj Kishore (who has directed nearly 30 films), makes her debut with Apple Cut. She proves her dexterity, especially in the second half of the film. However, the first half could have been fine-tuned to better hold the audience’s attention.
To engage viewers, debut director Sindhu Gowda has put in immense effort, delivering a nail-biting second half. While the fresh concept deserved a stronger first half, she has channeled all her energy into making the latter part gripping. As a woman director, Sindhu offers a male perspective on negligent parenting and its repercussions.
“An apple a day keeps the doctor away”—this well-known phrase takes on a darker meaning in Apple Cut, where the significance of cut apple seeds becomes central to the plot.
The film effectively portrays how a lack of parental care can drive a child to psychological extremes. Sindhu Gowda brings a contemporary touch to the narrative, making it relatable to the present generation.
Just like the final overs of a cricket match, where every ball is a thrilling hit, the film’s climax shocks and surprises, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.
Sathya (Surya Gowda) is an anthropology professor specializing in skull studies. Introverted in the first half, he transforms into an extrovert in the second. A series of setbacks during his adolescence deeply impact his life. As he matures and takes up a profession, his real goals remain hidden.
A string of mysterious deaths linked to lipstick baffles the police department. The research wing almost discovers the presence of poison-laced lipstick, setting off a wave of turmoil.
How are apple seeds as lethal as cyanide? What shocking incidents lead to a complex climax? How does the protagonist treat his mother? These intriguing elements unfold on the silver screen, making for a thrilling second half.
Surya Gowda makes a promising debut. With good height and screen presence, he seems set for a future in the film industry. However, Bala Rajwadi, playing a police officer, doesn’t make a strong impact. His character could have been written with more depth, as the police department’s portrayal in the film feels weak.
The background score is engaging in parts, while the cinematography adds solid support to Apple Cut.
Sindhu Gowda’s directorial debut is competent and worth watching.
