Director Jeethu Joseph’s latest thriller, Mirage, has landed on SonyLIV from October 19, but the online audience response has been underwhelming. After the massive success of Drishyam, expectations were high. However, viewers say the film fails to deliver the same thrill.
Critics and audiences alike point out that the movie lacks strong twists, making it feel flat after a while. While the actors tried their best within their roles, weak characterisation meant no one left a strong impression. Many feel that Mirage had a good idea, but it struggled to translate it effectively onto the screen.
The balance between suspense, emotion, and logic seems missing. Jeethu Joseph, known for showing how to plan a perfect crime in Drishyam, surprised fans by presenting a story that often feels illogical. Several scenes appear to have no connection to the plot, the heroine is highlighted without reason, and some characters appear and vanish with no explanation.
Viewers also report a lack of emotional connection. Many describe the story as feeling like it was written by a computer, rather than engaging the audience naturally. Even the narrative structure has tested the patience of the OTT crowd.
Mirage started with high expectations in theatres but did not perform as hoped. The anticipation was even higher for the OTT release, as fans trusted Jeethu Joseph to deliver at least one compelling element. Sadly, the final reception has been disappointing. Netizens say that the director’s previous masterpiece sets such a high benchmark that any new release is compared to it, making the shortcomings more noticeable.
In Drishyam, the emotions of a father protecting his family kept viewers glued to their seats. In contrast, Mirage revolves around a lifeless plot and fails to capture the same intensity. The movie shows that creating a masterpiece can be both a blessing and a curse, as every subsequent project faces heightened expectations.
For now, Mirage serves as a reminder that even celebrated directors can stumble, and that audience expectations, once set high, are difficult to satisfy.