Right from the opening scene, Dies Irae sets a tone that's dark, quiet, and deeply unsettling. The movie begins with the haunting image of a girl being pulled out of a well - a chilling start that later connects to a much deeper story. Soon, we meet Rohan (Pranav Mohanlal), a man living an affluent lifestyle, but one that feels strangely hollow. It does not take long for the film to draw a mysterious link between Rohan and the girl who took her own life.
As Rohan's world slowly starts to unravel, we begin to experience the haunting through his eyes - eerie silences, subtle movements, and that feeling of something watching you even in stillness. This is where the film truly shines. Christo Xavier's background score is phenomenal - it does not just accompany the scenes; it wraps around them, pulling you into a trance of curiosity, tension, and the occasional heart-jolt when you least expect it.
Rahul Sadasivan, once again, proves his mastery in crafting horror that isn't about loud scares or obvious shocks. Instead, he uses silence and atmosphere to explore something far more human - the emotions we never express, the attachments we can't let go of, and how the echoes of those feelings haunt the living.
Performance wise;
Pranav Mohanlal gives a mature and layered performance. He is subtle in the first half but really comes alive in the second, especially when the story turns emotional. You can feel his unease and guilt without him ever overacting.
Gibin Gopinath, as Madhusudhanan Potti, is a revelation. His character carries a quiet conflict, and Gibin portrays that inner turmoil beautifully. He adds depth to the film's emotional and spiritual themes.
Technical wise;
Visually, Dies Irae is stunning. The cinematography by Shafique Mohammed Ali and Shehnad Jalal captures both the eeriness and the beauty of its dark world. The lighting, framing, and muted tones create a mood that stays with you long after the credits roll. And of course, Christo Xavier's score deserves a special mention - it is haunting, immersive, and at times, almost feels like a character of its own.
Final Thoughts;
Dies Irae is not your usual horror flick. It is not about ghosts jumping out at you - it's about the emotions and obsessions that linger even after death. It is slow, deliberate, and beautifully crafted.
