Unraveling Toby: Raj B Shetty’s Dark Odyssey
“Toby” follows Shetty’s groundbreaking “Garuda Gamana Vrishabha Vahana”, which was just as audacious in its storytelling. Breaking away from his typical self-mocking comedies like “Ondu Motteya Kathe”, Shetty explores the world of stylized crime films with “Toby”.
In this filmic journey, Toby (played by Raj B Shetty) emerges as a complex character, haunted by a troubled past but having the innocence of a child. Raised in remand home, Toby’s life takes a U-turn when he finds solace with Father Iglesias who christens him Tobia meaning “God is good.” However, under this mask of being innocent lies a darker side as no one can stop Toby from going violent to save his loved ones.
Shetty’s writing makes use of contrasts very cleverly while examining Toby’s relationships in all their complexity and symbolism. Each character, starting from Father Iglesias to an out-of-the-ordinary love story with a prostitute, adds depth to the portrayal of Toby. Notably, inclusion of strong female characters is an interesting departure that the cast handles with care and subtlety.
Basil Alachalakkal directed “Toby,” which is a movie that has Shetty’s unmistakable mark on it as seen through its stylized treatment and inventive sequences. It must be admitted here though that while certain moments do stand out, like the pre-interval fight sequence, this film falls short of creating any emotional connection with the viewer. “Garuda Gamana Vrishabha Vahana,” unlike its forerunner, revolved around an interesting character who is also nuts; however, “Toby” seems to be a film without a soul.
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The narrative tone is set by the pacing which is carefully deliberate and enhanced by Praveen Shriyan’s photography and Midhun Mukundan’s composition. Nonetheless, even if Toby tries to make the story interesting, it does not provide unexpected twists or a climax that keeps you interested. Consequently, what we observe in this film is nothing new at all which makes the audience to wish for something more satisfying and meaningful.
In conclusion, “Toby” gives viewers an engaging cinematic experience characterized by outstanding performances and exceptional workmanship. Although it may not meet the level portrayed in his previous one, this shows Raj B Shetty’s growing talent in telling stories as well as his desire to create something new in Kannada cinema.