The Girlfriend review: Rashmika impresses in a gripping tale of self-mastery
‘The Girlfriend’ is a Telugu drama film written and directed by Rahul Raveendran. Rashmika Mandanna, who plays the lead character, gives a compelling performance in this dramatic yet impactful story.
“This is your story,” shouts director Rahul Ravindran at the top of his voice with this tale of strength, discovery and self-mastery. Often, we get films that depict relatable situations, relationships and problems, but it is not very common for a film to show the other side. During a cinema trend full of “he did it”, here’s a movie that talks about “why did he do it”. This is a film about what’s cooking behind the love story of an angry, controlling, entitled guy and a timid, under-confident, sweet girl like Preeti – sorry, Bhumaa. This is ‘The Girlfriend’.
Addressing sensitive matters like dominance, patriarchy, toxic masculinity and gaslighting is important, but when they are explored through films, making them a compelling watch is as important as conveying the message. ‘The Girlfriend’ is one such attempt to show the struggles of a young woman trapped in a relationship that takes over her life, pushing her to a point I would like to call her ‘Chuck It’ moment – where she finds her voice. But is it a compelling film worth watching? Let’s find out!
Bhuma Devi (Rashmika Mandanna) is an MA literature student who bumps into college student Vikram (Dheeksith Shetty) in the middle of a fight with a policeman. When Bhuma provides first aid to Vikram, the conversation leads to acquaintanceship, friendship and ultimately a ‘committed relationship’. How did this relationship start? Is there love between the couple? Did Bhuma say anything in this? What luggage does she carry? Will she find her voice (the best part)? The answers to these questions – and many more – form the crux of the film.
Rahul Raveendran delivers another nuanced story about romance, but this time, it’s not about love blossoming – it’s about love burning out the sense of self within ‘The Girlfriend’. He writes a powerful story that tests your patience in a compelling way. How? By creating a connection between Bhuma and the audience, who become the silent third person in this turbulent relationship – wishing the best for Bhuma, wanting to help her, and literally praying for her to get out of that relationship as soon as possible. Quite relevant! It was all dramatic, but relevant.
But it’s not just that – there’s more to writing than just talent. The story, no matter how simple it may seem, beautifully portrays the complexities of emotions experienced by Bhuma. From laying the groundwork for her timid nature, to further establishing it through her relationship with her father, to the subtle integration of her aspirations – so subtle that they resonate with her shy and reserved behavior – the emotional highs and immediate lows leave a lasting impression.
Rahul impresses the most in this story. His small but important role, where he really gets his message across, is a thoughtful addition too. However, one dilemma about the story is the characterization of Vikram. Apart from his somewhat good looks, he didn’t have any of the qualities that would make him someone all the girls in college would get excited about. Especially because all his vices, ego, anger issues and insecurities are right out in the open. If these qualities make him attractive, then God bless us all.
In terms of performances, Rashmika Mandanna impresses with her portrayal of the restrained Bhuma. She uses her innocent looks to her advantage, and effortlessly brings out her character as a sweet, pretty, possessive type of girl. Although the celebrated actress has faced trolling for her performances in the past, it cannot be denied that she has constantly strived to improve her craft as an artiste, and ‘The Girlfriend’ is one test she passes with flying colors.
In a particular scene, Rashmika’s character Bhuma undergoes a panic attack, and the ‘Pushpa’ actor’s performance in that moment is brilliant. There are instances where the staged reactions and dialogue delivery seem somewhat off-kilter, but overall, Rashmika plays Bhumika’s character well. Dixit Shetty as Vikram has given a strong performance and has managed to evoke feelings of revulsion and hatred towards his character. He definitely deserves more spotlight for his portrayal of a deeply flawed lover. The rest of the actors in the film also do justice to their roles.
Technically the film passes the mark. Director Rahul Raveendran clearly knows his craft and utilizes every department to elevate the story through visual storytelling. Hesham Abdul Wahab’s music and Prashant R Vihari’s background score perfectly complement the emotional beats of the film, while Krishnan Vasanth’s cinematography captures Bhuma’s world with a poetic touch – sometimes intimate, sometimes suffocating.
Editor Chhota K Prasad maintains a steady rhythm, ensuring that the audience remains emotionally engaged throughout. Moments like Bhumaa’s panic attack, the visual representation of her claustrophobia and her final breaking point are not only well shot – they are technically brilliant, leaving a lasting impression long after the film ends.
In my opinion, apart from a few moments of slightly off acting, there are not many shortcomings in this film. However, this leaves room for some questions. Was it necessary for the film to be so dramatic? Would it have had the same effect without all the intense emotions? Was Vikram meant to be portrayed as such a darker character, or would a brown sidekick have made the story more layered? Was Bhuma’s final action really empowering? These questions linger in my mind, yet my heart continues to defend the film for what it manages to achieve.
‘The Girlfriend’ is more than a movie – it’s an insight, and maybe even a lesson. Its purpose is not to preach; Instead, it offers a raw, honest look at how love can sometimes cost more than it gives. Backed by charming performances from Rashmika Mandanna and Dixit Shetty and Rahul Raveendran’s heartfelt direction, the film stands as a powerful reminder of the importance of self-worth and emotional independence.
It may make you uncomfortable, it may make you think – and that’s why it’s worth watching.
