‘Derby’ Twitter review: Adam Sabiq, Sagar Surya film gets mixed response, weak story criticised

Mollywood’s campus entertainer ‘Derby’, starring Sagar Surya and Al Ameen, has met with a largely negative reception from audiences following its March 27 release. Netizens on Twitter have criticized the film’s predictable storyline, weak performances, and underdeveloped character arcs. Technical aspects like cinematography and music also drew flak, with many deeming the movie an avoidable watch.

After the success of ‘Prakambanam’, the actors Sagar Surya and Al Ameen teamed up for the Mollywood campus entertainer ‘Derby’ which released in theatres on March 27. Now the film has opened to negative reactions from netizens. Here is a look at what Twitter users are saying about the movie.

Derby sets up a campus-based story

‘Derby’ is set in a college environment and follows a group of students navigating friendship, rivalry, love, and ambition. As the narrative progresses, it shifts into a more competitive space. Personal egos and campus pride start to take center stage.In Twitter reviews, the viewers have pointed out that the performances and character arcs do not leave a strong impact.

Twitter reactions

Social media platforms, especially Twitter, are filled with reactions from viewers.One user wrote, “#Derby : An avoidable film. Very poor direction & technical sides too. Stay away from theatres!! 0.5/5”. Another viewer commented, “A cliche campus story with predictable storyline and no curious developments. The story revolves through a college and the gang rivalries and college celebrations.”Several viewers also criticised the film’s technical aspects. Cinematography, editing, and music have all come under scrutiny.One detailed review stated, “The movie has the cinematography of someone like Abhinandan Ramanujam, and the work was extremely flat. The fight sequences in the movie lacked euphoria. They wanted to project Adam Sabiq as this hero material, and unfortunately, the editor was fighting for him, and even he couldn’t save him. Gopi Sunder delivers yet another forgettable album. The dance choreography in that initial arts day song is horrendously bad. In this movie, there is a part where a bunch of seniors are killing a cat to ruin a certain plan, and they are all wearing a certain costume while doing it. Derby is a collection of such nonsense and some cheesy romantic cliches.“

Overall response remains largely negative

‘Derby’ was expected to resonate with younger audiences due to its campus setting and relatable themes. However, the early reactions suggest that the film has failed to connect with viewers.The film is directed by Sajil Mampad and features a wide-ranging ensemble cast. Adam Sabiq, Sagar Surya, AL Ameen, and Jasnya Jayadeesh play the lead roles.Supporting actors include Hari Sivaram, Rish NK, Anu, Jasnya, Franco Francis, Siva Raaj, Praveen, and Johnny Antony.