Movie review: ‘Masterni’ answers the mystery but forgets the suspense

The crime thriller 'Masterni' attempts an unconventional approach to the murder mystery genre by revealing the culprits at the outset. However, this narrative choice, coupled with lengthy exposition, leaves the film tangled in its own structure, ultimately failing to generate suspense.

The story centers on Tulsi, a science teacher and mother, who becomes entangled in a murder investigation. The film introduces characters and their ordinary lives before an incident draws them into the mystery. Despite an initial setup that hints at Tulsi's analytical nature, the film struggles to develop her character beyond a single dimension, particularly in her role as a mother facing a moral dilemma.

While the film poses questions about parental lengths to protect a child, Tulsi's character arc is underdeveloped. She transitions from one action to another without the introspection or moral wrestling that would justify her choices. The mother-daughter dynamic, though intended as a compelling thread, is undermined by unconvincing acting that fails to convey the necessary emotional escalation and vulnerability.

Adding to the film's challenges is its controversial marketing song, which had already alienated the Nepali teaching community. The movie's pacing, including an extended scene describing a scorpion bite and a politician's lengthy speech, further detracts from the intended thrill, making the overall viewing experience fall short of its genre's expectations.