In “CTRL,” directed by Vikramaditya Motwane, Ananya Panday takes on the role of Nella Awasthi, a content creator who finds herself caught in a web of digital deception. The film dives deep into the life of Gen Z, showcasing the constant chase for validation through social media. Nella’s journey reflects a familiar narrative for Panday, who previously portrayed characters obsessed with online presence in films like “Kho Gaye Hum Kahan” and “Call Me Bae.”
As Nella navigates her relationship with Joe Mascarenhas (Vihaan Samat), the story unfolds through a series of social media videos that capture their love story. From fun New Year celebrations to adventurous vacations, the couple’s life is a highlight reel of curated moments. However, as they become more engrossed in their online persona, Nella unknowingly compromises her privacy and data to an evil AI bot.
While the film effectively portrays the loneliness and superficiality that often accompany modern relationships, it also highlights a crucial point: the need for deeper character development. Ananya’s characters often reflect the vanity and struggles of contemporary life, but there’s a sense that they lack depth. “CTRL” is visually engaging, but the narrative could benefit from a tighter structure to elevate its themes. Overall, the film serves as a cautionary tale about the pitfalls of seeking validation in a digital world, making it a thought-provoking watch for those interested in character-driven stories.
