Physics Teacher (film)

Physics Teacher
Theatrical release poster
Directed bySumukha
Written bySumukha
Skanda Subramanya
StarringSumukha
Prerana Kambam
Rajesh Nataranga
Mandya Ramesh
CinematographyRaghu Gyarahalli
Edited byAjay Kumar
Music bySkanda Subramanya
Production
company
Passing Shots Films Pvt. Ltd.
Release date
  • 27 May 2022 (2022-05-27)
CountryIndia
LanguageKannada

Physics Teacher is a 2022 Indian Kannada-language philosophical drama film written, directed by, and starring Sumukha, Prerana Kambam, Rajesh Nataranga, Mandya Ramesh.[1] Produced by Passing Shots Films Pvt. Ltd., the film explores the themes of reality versus illusion and was officially selected for the Bangalore International Film Festival (BIFFES).[2][3]

Plot

The film follows Badri, a reclusive physics teacher whose unwavering belief in science begins to unravel as he confronts profound questions about existence. Isolated and haunted by his past, he embarks on a solitary journey that blurs the lines between reality and illusion. As scientific inquiry gives way to metaphysical exploration, Badri is drawn into a quiet psychological unraveling where logic, memory, and meaning begin to collide.[4]

Cast

Production

The film marked Sumukha's directorial debut. It was shot in and around Bengaluru, with a focus on natural lighting and a minimalist visual style that reflected the film’s introspective mood. The production aimed for a subtle and realistic aesthetic to enhance the psychological depth of the narrative.[6][7]

Soundtrack

The film features the track "Manadaalada," which reflects the film's philosophical undertone.[8]

Reception

Physics Teacher received praise for its unconventional narrative and thought-provoking themes. Critics highlighted Sumukha's performance and direction as standout elements. The Times of India critic Sunayana Suresh rated the film 3 out of 5 stars, describing it as "a meditative drama that challenges conventional storytelling," and applauded Sumukha for delivering "a hauntingly restrained performance."[9] Swaroop Kodur of OTTplay rated the film 2.5 out of 5 stars and wrote, "For a film that required an astute eye for pacing and character study, Sumukha's debut is a tad underwhelming. The film certainly promises an original and interesting take on the subjects of spirituality and science through the lens of a genre like the psychological thriller but it also warranted inherent energy and the skill to build a smacking narrative."[10]

References

  1. ^ "Prerana Kambam plays psychology teacher in her new film". The Times of India. 8 October 2021. Retrieved 13 April 2025.
  2. ^ "Sumukha turns director with Physics Teacher". Cinema Express. 26 May 2022. Retrieved 10 April 2025.
  3. ^ "Exclusive: Physics Teacher deals with the vast and complex subject of reality vs illusion with intrigue and finesse, says Rajesh Nataranga". OTTPlay. Retrieved 10 April 2025.
  4. ^ "Physics Teacher trailer: A tale of bonafide science and rationality that turns on its head to become a thriller". OTTPlay. 25 May 2022. Retrieved 12 April 2025.
  5. ^ "Physics Teacher Movie Details". The Times of India. Retrieved 10 April 2025.
  6. ^ "Sumukha's next is a psychological thriller that he has written himself". The Times of India. 3 September 2021. Retrieved 10 April 2025.
  7. ^ "Sumukha turns chocolate boy for his next". The New Indian Express. 4 April 2023. Retrieved 12 April 2025.
  8. ^ "Manadaalada (From "Physics Teacher")". Apple Music. Retrieved 10 April 2025.
  9. ^ "Physics Teacher Movie Review : A meditative drama that challenges conventional storytelling". The Times of India. 27 May 2022. Retrieved 12 April 2025.
  10. ^ Kodur, Swaroop (May 27, 2022). "Physics Teacher review: This promising psychological thriller deserved a better script and execution". OTTplay. Retrieved April 14, 2025.