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Toby Review: This Raj B Shetty-Starrer Is A Riveting Drama That Commands Your Attention

Director: Basil Alchalakkal

Writer : Raj B Shetty

Cast: Raj B Shetty, Snigdha R Shetty, Chaithra J Achar, Samyukta Hornad, Gopalkrishna Deshpande, Raj Deepak Shetty, Bharath GB

Duration : 155 minutes

Available in : Theatres

All these years, Raj Shetty has insisted he’s a writer first, director next and then actor. With Toby , directed by his long-time associate Basil Alchalakkal, Raj proves he’s right up there as a performer. It’s difficult to shake off what he pulled off as Shiva in Garuda Gamana Vrushaba Vahana (2021) , but as Toby, Raj convinces you to buy into the character of a boy rendered mute, who grows up with brute power, and who is reduced to tenderness by the women around him. He stands tall and, at the same time, is reduced to a puddle when the enormity of some things hit him. Raj is also one of those rare actors who does not shy away from the camera when it captures him unflatteringly, because that is Toby.

Toby is difficult to slot into any genre — it’s not an action film, it’s not a mystery, it’s not a family drama, it’s not mythology, but it’s an amalgamation of all, all layering a foundation that begins with an act of love. Is Toby, the devil, as the priest says? Or, is he an angel to some, and the devil to others, depending on who meets him?

Toby is that child in the juvenile home who rages against authority, and sexual advances, but melts when a priest embraces him with nothing but affection. Protecting Father Iglesies is his duty now. That scene which sees him returning the hug, sting the eyes with tears.

So, why is Jenny (Chaithra) screaming for Toby, the only father-figure she knows, and why is Toby going all out for Jenny, the mother-figure in his life? In between all this is Savithri, the sex worker, whom Toby takes a shine to. That scene where a mute Toby grins wide and chortles thinking of Savithri, much to Jenny’s irritation, is lit.

Jenny is the wise one — teaching her father to count, to not go near Savithri’s house when there’s an additional pair of slippers outside — she renders him human and teaches him the ways of the world. 

The direction of some people’s lives are nudged by those in power, and like Shalini akka says, when the good wolves join hands to chase the bad wolf from the forest, they become bad themselves, many people’s lives change.

Toby is a murderer on hire, a man with an intimate relationship with blood — he’s an assistant in the mortuary, raises a child there, and courts Savithri with the mortuary van in the backdrop. Some of these details add up in seminal scenes later, and you have a gold coin moment when you make the connection.  

Anand anna (a majestic Raj Deepak Shetty) is an unlikely villain. You’d expect someone who’s been harassed to be otherwise, but he becomes what he wants vanquished, he’s the kind of man who keeps count of every coin flung on him, and extracts brutal revenge. 

Toby has unusual friends — Damodhara, played by the ever-dependable Gopalkrishna Deshpande, who teaches him to fish, and the priest played by Yogi Bankeshwar who shows him that he can be loved too — two people who understand the speech behind his silence.  

The women shine

Quite like GGVV , the film moves to a police station shortly after the titles roll, and to a young officer Sampath (a brilliant Bharath GB with quivering voice, shaking hands and a racing heart) who is afraid to use his official weapon and asks his deputy on day one if there might arise a chance to open fire in this police station limit. Toby depicts vulnerability that is not derided, but makes you empathise.

The film sparkles with superb performances, and the women shine: especially the two Jennys — Snigha R Shetty and Chaithra J Achar — Samyuktha Horanadu as Savithri and Sandhya Arekere as Shalini akka, whose seemingly expressionless face is the result of seeing life at close quarters.

The technical team is superb — cinematographer Praveen Shriyan captures the beauty of a village bathed in rain, the brutality of human nature and the life happening with the same love. There are picture postcards that are intended, others happen — when Toby is out to murder someone — the auto shakes, and a water bird takes off flight, creating ripples.

What does one say about composer Midhun Mukundan, but that he knows the fine art of using melody in the most unusual places and can convey ache like no one else. If there’s a ball of dread in the pit of your stomach in some scenes, all credit to him. The two songs will become earworms. 

Deeply intimate and raw

Nithin Shetty is the editor, and he cuts beautifully, and gifts some scenes all the oxygen they need to breathe in this film running to about two-and-a-half hours. Art director Jithu’s work is fabulous, with every space looking beautifully lived-in.

Raj Shetty has been the face of the film during the promotions — he’s written the screenplay, based on a story by TK Dayanand. So, how does one judge Basil’s work as director? I’d look at performances other than Raj’s and moments that don’t feature Toby — Basil does leave his stamp. 

But, yes, Toby bears the voice and look of films that Raj and his team have created so far — deeply intimate yet vast, showcasing flawed human nature, the largesse of hearts, and humour that shines through in the darkest of moments.

Watch the official trailer of Toby:

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Toby (Kannada) Movie Review: Gripping mystery of a missing man

Toby (Kannada) Movie Review: Gripping mystery of a missing man

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Home » Review » Toby movie review: Raj B Shetty presents a heart-achingly beautiful and tragic tale »

Toby movie review: Raj B Shetty presents a heart-achingly beautiful and tragic tale

Raj B Shetty plays the title character Toby to great effect in the film directed by Basil AL Chalakkal

Toby movie review: Raj B Shetty presents a heart-achingly beautiful and tragic tale

  • Prathibha Joy

Last Updated: 07.12 PM, Aug 26, 2023

Story: Toby (Raj B Shetty) is Damodara’s (Gopalkrishna Deshpande) assistant in a mortuary. A knock to the head, a slit here and there on a dead body – that is what his work entails. But for the right enticement, in this case, a small house for him and his daughter Jenny (Chaithra J Achar), he is also the man to go to when you need someone to go ‘missing’. This is something that Anand (Raj Deepak Shetty), a once small-time meat merchant, exploits to become the most affluent and powerful man of the neighbourhood. But when this has a terrible effect on those that Toby holds dear, he seeks revenge.

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Review: Raj B Shetty was not kidding when he said that none of us would have really understood what Toby the film and his character are like with the trailer . He gave us random glimpses that, put together, presented a story that seemed to make sense, but in actuality, it was a brilliant fill in the blanks puzzle. How Raj filled these blanks is what makes Toby, a riveting watch. The establishment of these plot points, of course, does not happen at break-neck speed; it’s a slow but steady progression, which, may come across as a lag to those who prefer pacy story-telling. But then, it’s not exactly a slow-burner – there’s a steady trickle of engaging moments that builds into a mighty crescendo.

Read also: Raj B Shetty on Toby: My intention was always to make a good film; not just a good Kannada film

The story, we are told, is set in a small town in Kumta, where a young orphan is rendered voiceless and nameless. He’s supposedly violent and evil, but he’s also got a large heart, brimming with love for the priest who shows him love and gives him a name, the child he rears and the woman he likes. As nonchalant that Toby is about killing and disposing off bodies in a crusher, he’s also quite the naïve simpleton, which becomes the cornerstone of his exploitation. The circumstances that lead him to breaking point is what the narrative of Toby is all about.

A still from Toby

The film, Toby, no doubt, belongs to Raj B Shetty. This was the beast that took the most out of him as an artiste. Even when all he says is “Eeeh” or lets out the random grunt, you feel his every emotion, which, quite often, makes your heart ache for him and those around him. This is some top-notch acting from him. The casting for each of the supporting roles is stellar, whether it is Samyukta Hornad as Savitri, Chaithra J Achar as Jenny, Gopalkrishna Deshpande’s Damodara or Yogi Bankeshwar’s Fr Iglesias. Chaithra gets the sweetest deal, but it’s Snigdha, as young Jenny, who is the scene-stealer. Raj Deepak Shetty’s Anand feels a tad like Rishab Shetty’s Hari from Garuda Gamana Vrishabha Vahana, in going from humble beginnings to a power trip that includes getting rid of anyone standing in his way, including Toby. But the actor’s commending screen presence and menacing portrayal of the character makes you overlook this.

A still from the film

No film of Raj’s is complete without a mention of his technical crew, especially cinematographer Praveen Shriyan and music composer Midhun Mukundan. Both are brilliant contributors, but between the two of them, my vote goes to Midhun; his riveting background score elevates Toby several notches. I am not entirely sold on the two songs, but then, this was the first time I’d heard them and maybe they will become earworms later on. I maybe mistaken, but the audio seems to be sync sound recording in places and hence is a tad muffled. As for the cinematography, well, the landscape that Praveen had to work with was rather limited, so, he channelled his camera tricks into the action pieces, which are not only well choreographed but made even more effective in editing.

Read also: Exclusive! Midhun Mukundan: The music of Toby is situational and important to take the narrative ahead  

Raj B Shetty in and as Toby

Verdict: In the last few years, one has often heard Kannada audiences singing high praise of movies from the Malayalam industry, for their realistic, rooted stories. Toby, in a sense, feels like an extension of that kind of story-telling. It’s raw and very real and tugs at your heart every now and then. Set expectations aside and watch it with an open heart to well and truly feel the emotions of Toby. I walked out of the theatre immensely happy at having watched a good piece of cinema that worked for me. Toby may not be a film for everyone, but should you give it a chance, you may just like it after all.

Read also: Raj B Shetty: After Toby, I have to write two scripts for my friends and then I will do another film

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Toby Movie Review: An unavoidable, honest piece of art

Rating: ( 3.5 / 5).

In the realm of cinema, the fusion of personal anguish and creative flair exerts an unparalleled magnetism. Toby, the recent creation of filmmaker Raj B Shetty embodies this captivating amalgamation. Echoing his own poignant words, ‘When you hurt an artist, a poem is born’, the film constructs a realm from agony, interwoven into a poetic fabric. Toby traverses through vulnerability and strength, extending an invitation for profound exploration. Director: Basil Alchakkal and Raj B Shetty Cast: Raj B Shetty, Chaithra Achar, Samyukta Hornad, Gopalkrishna Deshpande The title card of Toby unfurls like a vivid canvas, adorned in red and black hues, with coastal tints, and an air of intrigue tones of Maari Ge Daari. We soon find ourselves at the police station where Sampath (Bharath), an aspiring constable in Thamas Katte, delves into the intricacies of the village with his subordinate, Kushalappa. As Jenny (Chaithra B Achar) approaches the police station in search of her father, Toby (Raj B Shetty), a mute man whose journey unfolds through perspectives of various people. Among them, is the church father Iglesias (Yogi Bankeshwar), the one who christens the orphan with the name Toby, bestowing voice upon the voiceless. Toby, emerging from gibberish, is hailed as God. Growing up, Toby faces abuse from the warden; the first one to embrace him is the Father. Beneath his unpretentious gaze lies a mystery—a fusion of innocence and devilish enigma. Toby’s interactions with people like Dhamodara (Gopalkrishna Deshpande) lead to an unwitting friendship, it is he who lends him a helping hand by offering an occupation at the mortuary.  The mosaic of the narrative expands to include Savitri (Samyukta Hornad), a sex worker, and Shalini,(Arakere) the neightbour, Shalini (Sandhya Arakere and the child artiste (Snigdha), who plays Jenny’s younger version. The narrative unfolds in a quest for identity, aspirations encapsulated within hut-shaped dreams, and the unforeseen toll of ambition. Toby’s journey takes a turn, as his innocence transforms from a state of passivity into a resolute strength. Anand (Raj Deepak Shetty) a local power player, exploits Toby’s simplicity for personal gain. While the village grapples with a series of disappearances, casting an ominous shadow upon Toby. Toby’s actions take a toll on his daughter, Jenny, an abandoned soul he had taken in his arms during one of the fishing camps with his friend Dhamodara. The catalyst behind this is Anand. What triggers Toby to distance himself from Jenny? Will he fathom Jenny’s emotions, and will he deliver her rightful justice? The story culminates in a violent resolution. Against a backdrop of coastal aesthetics and narrative intrigue, punctuated by intermittent action, the characters’ adventures reflect the strength each one possesses. But will the act of revenge bring forth justice? With an engaging storyline that mixes moments of excitement,  when the story concludes. However, we wonder if seeking revenge will truly deliver fairness, was it a selfish move by Toby, ultimately leading to painful consequences? The film, captured by Basil Alchakkal alongside Raj’s embracing of a diverse array of elements, encounters a substantial challenge in its slow pacing and stylised slow-motion action. Raj, the creator of Toby strives to maintain a simple premise, focusing on emotions. One shouldn’t anticipate unexpected twists and the climax when Toby appears on a horse with a nose ring, radiating grandeur. A splendid pre-climax builds anticipation, ultimately culminating in the triumph of good over evil. Within the succinct 8-page narrative of TK Dayanand, cleverly reimagined by writer Raj B Shetty, lies a treasure of hidden metaphors, beckoning us to delve deeper. Raj’s strength in writing adds intricate layers to various scenes, an aspect not lost on the viewer. Toby is hard to slot into a genre but, in the end, presents itself as a revenge drama. The film thrives on a tapestry of performances and technical finesse. At the pinnacle stands the formidable Raj B Shetty himself, pouring his all into the character. Toby is a figure who can evoke love and hatred, but certainly cannot be ignored. His portrayal as a mute person, devoid of spoken words, he has conveyed through expressions, especially that mischievous laughter, at times haunts, resonating with a power that transcends language. Chaithra, stepping into her role as Jenny, exhibits exceptional finesse, her challenges echoing the prowess of her co-star. Her portrayal of a determined woman, but she has been a source of misery blurs the line between acting and reality. Young Jenny’s played by Snigdha is well-crafted with one-liners that provide delightful comic relief while adding depth to her character. . Samyukta’s portrayal of a sex worker is well-portrayed. She encapsulates a nuanced perspective shaped by intimate encounters with society’s intricacies. Then there’s Bharath, a rookie police officer who introduces a twist in the end. He is someone who hesitates to pull the trigger but ultimately becomes the one calling the shots. Gopalkrishna Deshpande propels Toby’s story forward, while Yogesh Bankeshwar, as the Father turned protector, becomes a member of Toby’s family. Technically Midhun Mukundan’s melodies, infuse the narrative with enchantment, and the two songs placed at good intervals enhance the story’s emotions. Praveen Shriyan’s cinematography enriches the film’s visual texture, capturing both the grandeur of the nature of the coastal belt and the intimacy of Toby’s experiences. Nithin Shetty at the editing desk faced a formidable task, and his efforts shine through. Embedded within the cultural fabric, the Maari Gudi stands as an emblematic presence. Situated on the outskirts, it guards the village, with its deity evoking reverence and fear. Much like this deity, Toby embodies a comparable duality—a character forged by strength and vulnerability. In the grand scheme of things, Toby offers a satisfying cinematic experience, yet it leaves a lingering sense of yearning for something more. Amid its multi-layered performances and visual sophistication, the film navigates a complex tapestry of human emotions. Raj B Shetty’s personal experience underscores the transformation of anguish into creative fuel. This journey begets Toby, a cinematic voyage delving into vulnerability and triumph. As the film ushers us into Toby’s world, it kindles the thought, “Can art born from pain uplift us?”

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toby kannada movie review wikipedia

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Toby review: Raj B Shetty as Toby leaves you ‘speechless’, but falls short of brilliance

Toby is all about the brilliant performance of Raj B Shetty from the moment he arrives on the screen until it hits the climax.

Bhaskar Basava

Published:Aug 25, 2023

toby kannada movie review wikipedia

A still from Raj B Shetty's 'Toby'. (Supplied)

A compelling watch.

Toby (Kannada)

  • Cast: Raj B Shetty, Chaithra Achar, Samyukta Hornad, Deepak Shetty, Gopal Deshpande, Bharath GB, Sandhya Arakere, and Yogi Bankeshwar
  • Director: Basil Alchalakkal
  • Producers: Lighter Buddha Films and Agastya Films
  • Music: Midhun Mukundan
  • Runtime: 2 hours 35 minutes
  • Cast: Salman Khan, Katrina Kaif, Emraan Hashmi, and Revathy
  • Director: Maneesh Sharma
  • Producer: Aditya Chopra
  • Music: Pritam Chakraborty

Tobia in Hebrew means ‘God is Good’. So, is the movie with Raj B Shetty playing the protagonist Tobia alias Toby as good as the title?

Well, let’s dwell upon it.

Toby opens up with a sub-inspector taking charge of his position in a police station which has a limited jurisdiction with theft and missing cases reported frequently.

It is the missing cases that soon strike hard after Toby (Raj B Shetty) is found missing for a few days, and his adopted daughter Jenny (Chaithra Achar) is seen furious against the police for not finding his father.

The story propels further with the police officer who is curious to know about Toby and his past.

A poster of the film Toby

A poster of the film ‘Toby’. (Raj B Shetty/ X)

Meanwhile, he has his own anxiety issue over the “sound” when a revolver is fired. This sets the tempo of the film as to what is in store for the next two-and-a-half hours.

The police officer goes around enquiring about Toby with characters who are close to the man who is missing and why people who go missing are never to be found.

We soon learn that Toby is an orphan and cannot speak (mute). It is the father from the church who christened him Toby. Even his daughter Jenny was actually an orphan whom Toby raised.

And, then there is this other man named Anandanna (Deepak Shetty), the villain.

Now, let us find Toby, who is missing and also the essence of experiencing another thriller of a different kind in Kannada.

Related: Creating ordinary characters is my forte, says Raj B Shetty

Speechless act.

Basil Alchalakkal directorial Toby

Basil Alchalakkal’s directorial ‘Toby’. (Raj B Shetty/ X)

No doubt that Toby is all about the brilliant performance of Raj B Shetty from the moment he arrives on the screen until it hits the climax.

The shades of his previous outing in the gangster film Garuda Gamana Vrishabha Vahana (2021) are quite visible in Toby , too. But Toby stands out for the reason that he shoulders it all by himself to perfection.

The actor nowhere falters and continues to spellbind with his acting skills as a man who is innocent and at the same time, a silent but ferocious wild being. He does it all with his eyes and expressions by playing the mute character.

In a way, he lives the character of Toby in multiple shades — as an orphan, father, lover, loyal, and merciless killer.

Also Read: ‘RDX’ is a high-octane action entertainer with stylish fights

Chaithra stands out.

Talking about the rest of the cast, almost everyone plays the role to its best ability.

But Chaithra as Jenny is the most impressive of all. As a daughter, she is the reason why Toby finds some happiness amidst his turbulent character who is being used by Anandanna for his ulterior motives.

Samyukta Hornad as Savitri, a sex worker, finds solace in the innocence of Toby.

Toby has a great ensemble cast

Raj B Shetty’s ‘Toby’ has an ensemble cast. (Raj B Shetty/ X)

Apart from a good story and brilliant performances, Toby falls short of brilliance for its pace.

It takes its own time to build the intensity and hence spoils the fun to an extent due to its prolonged wait to hit the nail on time.

The first half is all about knowing who Toby is and his past through the people who made a difference and served a purpose in his life.

The second half is when things get seriously gory with more and more people going missing and the reasons behind it.

It is the end for which the whole film is basically written and it does arrive with an impeccable force. But one needs to patiently wait for it to arrive.

Also Read: ‘Bedurulanka 2012’ is a social satire on doomsday prediction

More than the story, it is the performance of Raj B Shetty as Toby and others supporting him to good effect which makes it compelling to watch.

But make sure you do not have anxiety issues of any kind and have some patience to wait for the powerful moments to arrive and leave you speechless in the end.

God is good and so is the movie!

(Views expressed here are personal.)

toby kannada movie review wikipedia

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toby kannada movie review wikipedia

Toby (2023)

  • User Reviews
  • With Raj hitting high scores in his previous endeavors, this falls substantially short in comparison
  • Expected storyline which might feel bland for the overall spice which raj has been providing so far
  • Screenplay is brilliant accompanied by excellent editing and background score. It is difficult to appreciate each of it separately but combined these 3 aspects make you not get off the chairs.
  • Surprisingly amazing acting of " newcomer" Chaithra Achar who fulfills her role as jenny to the core making you feel extremely sad for the fate of her character.
  • Direction is beyond doubt amazing here as well

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  • What is the release date of 'Toby'? Release date of Raj B. Shetty and Chaithra Achar starrer 'Toby' is 2023-08-25.
  • Who are the actors in 'Toby'? 'Toby' star cast includes Raj B. Shetty, Chaithra Achar, Samyukta Hornad and Raj Deepak Shetty.
  • Who is the director of 'Toby'? 'Toby' is directed by Basil Alchalakkal.
  • What is Genre of 'Toby'? 'Toby' belongs to 'Drama' genre.
  • In Which Languages is 'Toby' releasing? 'Toby' is releasing in Kannada.

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Toby Movie Review: Toby Or Not Toby, That’s The Question

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Updated Aug 27, 2023, 13:27 IST

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‘Toby’ movie review: Raj B Shetty’s stylised, dark revenge saga grapples with predictability

The top-notch performances propel the film’s interesting characters, but ‘toby’ is marred by lack of surprises and a generic ending.

Updated - August 25, 2023 10:31 pm IST

Published - August 25, 2023 06:15 pm IST

Vivek M V

Raj B Shetty in ‘Toby’ | Photo Credit: Lighter Buddha Films/YouTube

Raj B Shetty’s  Garuda Gamana Vrishabha Vahana  ( GGVV , 2021) was a huge leap in his budding career; it displayed a radical shift in his filmmaking style. After making the light-hearted, self-deprecating comedy  Ondu Motteya Kathe,  Raj stunned everybody with a stylised cop versus criminal drama in his sophomore flick.

Now, calling it his first ‘mass’ film, he promises a novel experience with  Toby . The results are interesting, though not entirely convincing.

Even if Basil Alachalakkal is credited as the director,  Toby  has the firm stamp of the filmmaker Raj, who wrote the film based on the story of T K Dayanand. He succeeds reasonably well in offering a different ‘masala’ film, and two scenes are testimony to that. Raj’s introduction is a formulaic idea, yet it looks stylish thanks to a subtle treatment. Similarly, the pre-interval fight sequence is superbly inventive, also laced with humour, doing complete justice to the tension preceding the scene.

However, the film’s intention to become a classic doesn’t bear fruit as it fails to strike an emotional chord. The stylised filmmaking in  Toby  feels like an extension of  GGVV.  But that film solely revolved around the highly fascinating character Shiva (essayed by Raj) and the consequences of his eccentric behaviour. In  Toby,  the titular character’s life is defined by his relationship with multiple people. And Raj’s writing plays second fiddle to the film’s stylised treatment, making it a cinematic experience albeit without a soul.

Toby (Kannada)

Set in Damaskatte, Toby (Raj) is a victim of a troubled childhood. He is mute and innocent, yet violent and dangerous. Having grown up in a remand home, his respect is reserved only for Father Iglesias, who nurtures and names him Tobia, meaning “God is good”. But Toby resembles a  shaitan  (devil) as he doesn’t hesitate to kill anyone who hurts his loved ones.

Raj writes his characters with a nice blend of contrasts and symbolism, and the script revolves around people often dismissed as outcasts in society. Toby works as an assistant to Damodara (a reliable Gopalakrishna Deshpande) in a mortuary. As someone who witnesses corpses on a daily basis, he decides to save a life by raising an abandoned girl child (Chaithra J Achar). Meanwhile, the town’s new sub-inspector is very different from the traditional idea of a cop; he is timid and a tad corrupt, taking pills to reduce his anxiety of using a gun.  

Toby falls in love with a sex worker (a measured Samyukta Hornad). The presence of two important female characters in a Raj B Shetty film is a welcome change; he writes them with sensitivity as any contemporary filmmaker should. Chaithra is terrific as a daughter who imbibes the fearlessness of his father even as she grows up more sensible than him.  

The film’s conflict begins when Toby becomes a pawn in the criminal world of Anand anna (Raj Deepak Shetty), who rises from being a meek local meat seller into a powerful man. The deliberate slow pace of the film is enhanced by Praveen Shriyan’s unhurried cinematography and Midhun Mukundan’s brooding score.

Raj feeds you with several clues, but unlike in  GGVV,  there are no terrific payoffs when he reveals his intentions. The film fails to fight its predictable storyline thanks to the lack of a single surprise element. In the last act, the aimless writing is evident when Raj dumbs down the intelligence of his protagonist. The smartness used in depicting violence earlier in the film paves the way for an utterly formulaic climax. 

ALSO READ: Rakshit Shetty: ‘Sapta Sagaradaache Ello’ marks a new beginning in my acting career

However, Raj is terrific in his portrayal of innocence, and the film does justice to his face (with several close-up shots), tailor-made for expressing rage and innate sadness.  Toby  is yet another exploration of filmmaking by the actor, who calls himself a student of the craft. He offers an experience, a dark one at that. That said, we are less in awe of it and more curious about his decisions.

Eventually, Toby leaves one with an empty feeling as we sense the effort put in to create a masterpiece; however, the outcome is far from organic.

Toby is currently running in theatres

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Toby Public Review: Raj B. Shetty's Performance In This Action Drama Earns Accolades

Toby Public Review: Raj B. Shetty Earns Accolades

"Toby" Currently In Theatres: Get ready for an exhilarating journey into the realm of Kannada cinema with 'Toby'. This drama-thriller, directed by the talented Basil Alchakkal, has made its debut on the big screen today.

National Film Awards 2023 Kannada Winners Complete List

Leading the charge is none other than the versatile actor Raj B. Shetty, who steps into the shoes of the enigmatic titular character.

Toby Cast And Crew

"Toby" boasts an ensemble cast that includes not only Raj B. Shetty but also Samyukta Hornad, Chaitra Achar, and Raj Deepak Shetty. The music for the movie is woven by the gifted Midhun Mukundan, while the cinematography and editing are handled by Praveen Shriyan and Nithin Shetty. Behind the scenes, producer Ravi Rai ensures that this cinematic venture reaches its full potential.

From Short Story to Silver Screen: The Making of Toby

Ever wondered where the inspiration for Toby's character came from? It all began with an 8-page short story by T.K. Dayanand. Raj B. Shetty, retaining the essence of this character, penned a captivating screenplay that promises to bring Toby to life on the big screen. The movie's backdrop? The picturesque Kumta region of Uttara Kannada district in coastal Karnataka.

Synopsis: A Tale of Transformation

Prepare to be spellbound by the story of Toby, an estranged man often viewed as a beast. He embarks on a soul-stirring journey to break free from the clutches of an evil world, all in the name of love for Jenny.

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Toby Receives Positive Reviews

A viewer named Ganesh Karanth shared on Twitter his perspective on the film "Toby," praising the award-worthy acting skills of Raj B. Shetty. Ganesh regarded Raj B. Shetty's performance in the film as his career-best, applauding his remarkable portrayal. Additionally, the viewer highlighted Chaitra Achar's fantastic performance and expressed his appreciation for Putaani Snigdha's role as Baby Jenni, finding it a delightful treat to watch. Summing up his thoughts, the viewer remarked that the acting in the film was truly impressive, and overall, they considered "Toby" to be a good movie, noting its positive impact.

Toby An award winning acting by Raj Shetty sir. For me this is his career best performance 👏 Chaitra Achar was fab 👌 Baby Jenni role played by putaani snigdha was treat to watch ❤️ - - - - TOBY MOVIE - - - Acting wise - wow As a movie - A good movie #Toby — Ganesh Karanth (@kgkaranth) August 25, 2023

Actor Kireeti shared on Twitter his thoughts on the film "Toby," expressing his excitement after watching it. He described the experience as mind-blowing," emphasising his admiration for every aspect of the film. Kireeti praised the film's exceptional writing and direction, particularly the efforts of director Raj B. Shetty. He characterised the film as another instance of groundbreaking cinema that is set to make a significant and enduring impression on the audience. Kireeti also extended his best wishes to the entire Toby team.

Just watched #Toby . WHAT A MIND BLOWING experience it was. Everything about the film is just brilliant. The writing is top notch so is the direction. Everything @RajbShettyOMK sir does is just awe-inspiring. Yet another clutter breaking cinema that is bound to leave a lasting… pic.twitter.com/4g3xvyT3E1 — Kireeti (@KireetiOfficial) August 25, 2023

Sony LIV Unveils The Trailer Of The Critically Acclaimed Kannada Film - TOBY

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Toby review: Performance is the highlight of this endearing love-revenge tale

Princy Alexander

Kannada actor-filmmaker Raj B Shetty, who plays the protagonist in 'Toby', could not have been more accurate when he said he loves broken characters. 'Toby', directed by Basil Alchalakkal and written by Raj himself, is the epitome of those blown to smithereens. It is a tale of a man who loses himself in the process of finding love - for his daughter.

Raj B Shetty proves again what a fine actor he is as he essays the titular character. Toby is a speech-impaired man, who had lost his voice in an accident as a boy. He is kept at a remand home since he is unruly and lands in jail.

Once he leaves jail, he takes up a job at a mortuary. Catching fish from the local river with his friend Damodaran becomes his favourite pastime. During one such fishing session, the duo discover an abandoned baby girl in the river. Toby 'adopts' the girl and names her Jenny.

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Toby's endearing relationship with Jenny forms the crux of the story, which has an equal measure of romance, revenge and violence.

Raj as Toby does not carry the weight of his previous characters. The level of control and lucidity he possesses over his character is truly awe-inspiring. Portraying a speech-impaired man convincingly on screen is a challenging task, but Raj makes it seem easy. You smile when he smiles, you cry when he cries.

Chaitra Achar as Jenny has also perfectly essayed the character. You can't say whether she is acting or living the character.

Deepak Shetty who plays Ananda, the villain in the movie has also done a good job just like the other characters. The filmmakers have managed to add essence to short story writer T K Dayanand's work with the script, beautiful cinematography and music. The length and predictability in the later part of the second half affect the film but the performances of all the lead characters will carry you forward.

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Toby Kannada Movie Review

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Toby Kannada Movie

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'Toby' film review: An unavoidable, honest piece of art

In the realm of cinema, the fusion of personal anguish and creative flair exerts an unparalleled magnetism. Toby, the recent creation of filmmaker Raj B Shetty embodies this captivating amalgamation. Echoing his own poignant words, ‘When you hurt an artist, a poem is born’, the film constructs a realm from agony, interwoven into a poetic fabric. Toby traverses through vulnerability and strength, extending an invitation for profound exploration.

The title card of Toby unfurls like a vivid canvas, adorned in red and black hues, with coastal tints, and an air of intrigue tones of Maari Ge Daari. We soon find ourselves at the police station where Sampath (Bharath), an aspiring constable in Thamas Katte, delves into the intricacies of the village with his subordinate, Kushalappa. As Jenny (Chaithra B Achar) approaches the police station in search of her father, Toby (Raj B Shetty), a mute man whose journey unfolds through the perspectives of various people. Among them, is the church father Iglesias (Yogi Bankeshwar), the one who christens the orphan with the name Toby, bestowing voice upon the voiceless.

Toby, emerging from gibberish, is hailed as God. Growing up, Toby faces abuse from the warden; the first one to embrace him is the Father. Beneath his unpretentious gaze lies a mystery—a fusion of innocence and devilish enigma. Toby’s interactions with people like Dhamodara (Gopalkrishna Deshpande) lead to an unwitting friendship, it is he who lends him a helping hand by offering an occupation at the mortuary.  The mosaic of the narrative expands to include Savitri (Samyukta Hornad), a sex worker, and Shalini, (Arakere) the neighbour, Shalini (Sandhya Arakere and the child artiste (Snigdha), who plays Jenny’s younger version.

The narrative unfolds in a quest for identity, aspirations encapsulated within hut-shaped dreams, and the unforeseen toll of ambition. Toby’s journey takes a turn, as his innocence transforms from a state of passivity into a resolute strength. Anand (Raj Deepak Shetty) a local power player, exploits Toby’s simplicity for personal gain. While the village grapples with a series of disappearances, casting an ominous shadow upon Toby.

Toby’s actions take a toll on his daughter, Jenny, an abandoned soul he had taken in his arms during one of the fishing camps with his friend Dhamodara. The catalyst behind this is Anand. What triggers Toby to distance himself from Jenny? Will he fathom Jenny’s emotions, and will he deliver her rightful justice? The story culminates in a violent resolution.

Against a backdrop of coastal aesthetics and narrative intrigue, punctuated by intermittent action, the characters’ adventures reflect the strength each one possesses. But will the act of revenge bring forth justice? With an engaging storyline that mixes moments of excitement,  when the story concludes. However, we wonder if seeking revenge will truly deliver fairness, was it a selfish move by Toby, ultimately leading to painful consequences?

The film, captured by Basil Alchakkal alongside Raj’s embracing of a diverse array of elements, encounters a substantial challenge in its slow pacing and stylised slow-motion action. Raj, the creator of Toby strives to maintain a simple premise, focusing on emotions. One shouldn’t anticipate unexpected twists and the climax when Toby appears on a horse with a nose ring, radiating grandeur. A splendid pre-climax builds anticipation, ultimately culminating in the triumph of good over evil.

Within the succinct 8-page narrative of TK Dayanand, cleverly reimagined by writer Raj B Shetty, lies a treasure of hidden metaphors, beckoning us to delve deeper. Raj’s strength in writing adds intricate layers to various scenes, an aspect not lost on the viewer. Toby is hard to slot into a genre but, in the end, presents itself as a revenge drama. The film thrives on a tapestry of performances and technical finesse. At the pinnacle stands the formidable Raj B Shetty himself, pouring his all into the character. Toby is a figure who can evoke love and hatred, but certainly cannot be ignored. His portrayal as a mute person, devoid of spoken words, he has conveyed through expressions, especially that mischievous laughter, at times haunts, resonating with a power that transcends language.

Chaithra, stepping into her role as Jenny, exhibits exceptional finesse, her challenges echoing the prowess of her co-star. Her portrayal of a determined woman, but she has been a source of misery blurs the line between acting and reality. Young Jenny played by Snigdha is well-crafted with one-liners that provide delightful comic relief while adding depth to her character. . Samyukta’s portrayal of a sex worker is well-portrayed. She encapsulates a nuanced perspective shaped by intimate encounters with society’s intricacies.

Then there’s Bharath, a rookie police officer who introduces a twist in the end. He is someone who hesitates to pull the trigger but ultimately becomes the one calling the shots. Gopalkrishna Deshpande propels Toby’s story forward, while Yogesh Bankeshwar, as the Father turned protector, becomes a member of Toby’s family. Technically Midhun Mukundan’s melodies, infuse the narrative with enchantment, and the two songs placed at good intervals enhance the story’s emotions. Praveen Shriyan’s cinematography enriches the film’s visual texture, capturing both the grandeur of the nature of the coastal belt and the intimacy of Toby’s experiences. Nithin Shetty at the editing desk faced a formidable task, and his efforts shone through.

Embedded within the cultural fabric, the Maari Gudi stands as an emblematic presence. Situated on the outskirts, it guards the village, with its deity evoking reverence and fear. Much like this deity, Toby embodies a comparable duality—a character forged by strength and vulnerability.

In the grand scheme of things, Toby offers a satisfying cinematic experience, yet it leaves a lingering sense of yearning for something more. Amid its multi-layered performances and visual sophistication, the film navigates a complex tapestry of human emotions.

Raj B Shetty’s personal experience underscores the transformation of anguish into creative fuel. This journey begets Toby, a cinematic voyage delving into vulnerability and triumph. As the film ushers us into Toby’s world, it kindles the thought, “Can art born from pain uplift us?”

Toby Director: Basil Alchakkal and Raj B Shetty  Cast: Raj B Shetty, Chaithra Achar, Samyukta Hornad, Gopalkrishna Deshpande

Rating: 3.5/5

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Toby REVIEW: Is Raj B Shetty's action Kannada film worth YOUR time? Read this

Toby Twitter Review: Toby is a Kannada revenge drama directed by Basil Alchakkal. The film is written by and starring Raj B Shetty in the titular role and is supported by a talented cast, including Samyukta Hornad and Chaithra Achar in prominent roles.  

Toby REVIEW: Is Raj B Shetty's action Kannada film worth YOUR time? Read this  RBA

Toby, directed by Basil Alchalakkal, is set in Uttara Kannada's Kumta area. Toby was inspired by TK Dayanand's short story. Raj B Shetty worked on the screenplay carefully by keeping the originality. The film has received excellent feedback and acclaim. According to the available information, Toby is the narrative of an alienated guy who is labelled a beast and wishes to break free from the horrors to earn Jenny's affection. He embarks on a voyage of change.

With its unusual material, the theatrical trailer for Toby raised anticipation for the picture. Cinephiles eager to ingest this content have flocked to the theatres following the film's initial release. A few Twitterati have flocked to their various social media handles to voice their thoughts about Toby to share their FDFS experience with Raj B Shetty's flick. Here are some tweets to check out.

Also Read:  Dream Girl 2 REVIEW: Is Ayushmann Khurrana, Ananya Panday's film HOT or FLOP?

Toby Cast  Raj B Shetty plays Toby, Samyukta Hornad plays Savithri, Chaithra J Achar plays Jenny, Raj Deepak Shetty plays Ananda, Gopalkrishna Deshpande plays Damodhara, Sandhya Arakere plays Shalini, Bharath GB plays Sampath, and Yogi Bankeshwar plays Priest, among others.

Also Read:  Adiyae REVIEW: Is GV Prakash Kumar's film worth your time and money? Read THIS

Toby Crew  Toby's narrative is written by TK Dayanand and directed by Basil Alchalakkal. The screenplay was written by Raj B Shetty himself. Ravi Rai Kalasa co-produced the film with Lighter Buddha Films, Coffee Gang Studios, Agastya Films, and Smooth Sailers. Praveen Shriyan operated the camera, and Nithin Shetty edited the film. Midhun Mukundan wrote the whole background score and music for the film.

  • Basil Alchakkal
  • Raj B Shetty
  • Samyukta Hornad
  • Chaithra Achar

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toby kannada movie review wikipedia

IMAGES

  1. Toby

    toby kannada movie review wikipedia

  2. Toby (2023)

    toby kannada movie review wikipedia

  3. TOBY Kannada Movie Poster Review and Breakdown

    toby kannada movie review wikipedia

  4. Toby Review Ratings

    toby kannada movie review wikipedia

  5. Toby Movie Review (2023) Rating, Cast & Release Date, Crew

    toby kannada movie review wikipedia

  6. Toby Movie (2023): Release Date, Cast, Ott, Review, Trailer, Story, Box

    toby kannada movie review wikipedia

COMMENTS

  1. Toby (film)

    Toby. (film) Toby is a 2023 Indian Kannada -language action drama film directed by Basil Alchalakkal and produced by Ravi Rai Kalasa. The film stars Raj B. Shetty in the title role, alongside Samyukta Hornad, Chaithra J. Achar and Raj Deepak Shetty. The music was composed by Midhun Mukundan, while the cinematography was handled by Praveen ...

  2. Toby (2023)

    Toby: Directed by Basil Alchalakkal. With Chaithra J. Achar, Naresh Bhat, Gopalkrishna Deshpande, Bharath Gb. Toby, an estranged man deemed to be a beast, vows to break free from the evil world and transform himself for Jenny.

  3. Toby Review: This Raj B Shetty-Starrer Is A Riveting Drama That

    Toby Review: This Raj B Shetty-Starrer Is A Riveting Drama That Commands Your Attention. Director: Basil Alchalakkal. Writer: Raj B Shetty. Cast: Raj B Shetty, Snigdha R Shetty, Chaithra J Achar, Samyukta Hornad, Gopalkrishna Deshpande, Raj Deepak Shetty, Bharath GB. Duration: 155 minutes.

  4. Toby Movie Review: Toby review: An ordinary tale of an ordinary man

    Toby Movie Review: Critics Rating: 3.0 stars, click to give your rating/review,Toby (Raj B Shetty) is an innocent man, but is often used as a murderer-for-hire by the village chie

  5. Toby (Kannada) Movie Review: Gripping mystery of a missing man

    The film begins with Sampath ( Bharath GB ), a newly appointed sub-inspector joining duty at Tamas Katte Police Station. Kushalappa, a head constable, advises Sampath not to interfere in missing ...

  6. Toby movie review: Raj B Shetty presents heart-achingly beautiful

    Raj B Shetty in and as Toby. Verdict: In the last few years, one has often heard Kannada audiences singing high praise of movies from the Malayalam industry, for their realistic, rooted stories. Toby, in a sense, feels like an extension of that kind of story-telling. It's raw and very real and tugs at your heart every now and then.

  7. Toby Movie Review: An unavoidable, honest piece of art

    Toby Movie Review: An unavoidable, honest piece of art. In the realm of cinema, the fusion of personal anguish and creative flair exerts an unparalleled magnetism. Toby, the recent creation of filmmaker Raj B Shetty embodies this captivating amalgamation. Echoing his own poignant words, 'When you hurt an artist, a poem is born', the film ...

  8. 'Toby' Kannada movie review

    Toby review: Raj B Shetty as Toby leaves you 'speechless', but falls short of brilliance. Toby is all about the brilliant performance of Raj B Shetty from the moment he arrives on the screen until it hits the climax. A still from Raj B Shetty's 'Toby'.

  9. Toby Review Ratings

    The people and film buffs of the Kannada industry have been waiting for Raj B Shetty's Toby film's release. The day has arrived and the movie opened all over the world on August 25.

  10. Toby movie review: Raj B Shetty film overcomes a well-worn plot, thanks

    Toby movie review: While the plot of Basil Alchalakkal's action drama Toby, starring Raj B Shetty, Chaithra J Achar and Samyukta Hornad in key roles, follows a familiar revenge theme, it is the storytelling and execution that set it apart.

  11. Toby (2023)

    User Reviews Review this title 37 Reviews Hide Spoilers Sort by: Filter by Rating: 7/10 New wave in kannada cinema saishnaik-53031 25 August 2023 Over couple of years kannada cinema has seen come exceptional movies which was ones fell behind other south industry Movies like ggrv,kantara,lucia,dia etc has given us great experience in theaters now taking about raj b shetty's new movie toby in ...

  12. Toby Movie: Showtimes, Review, Songs, Trailer, Posters, News & Videos

    Toby Movie Review & Showtimes: Find details of Toby along with its showtimes, movie review, trailer, teaser, full video songs, showtimes and cast. Raj B. Shetty,Chaithra Achar,Samyukta Hornad,Raj ...

  13. Powder (2024 film)

    Powder is a 2024 Indian Kannada-language youthful dark comedy film, directed by Janardhan Chikkanna and produced by KRG Studios in collaboration with TVF Motion Pictures. [1] The story and screenplay is written by Deepak Venkateshan. The film features Diganth, Dhanya Ramkumar, Sharmiela Mandre, Anirudh Acharya, Rangayana Raghu, Ravishankar Gowda, Gopal Krishna Deshpande and others.

  14. Toby Movie Review: Toby Or Not Toby, That's The Question

    Toby, starring Raj B Shetty and Samyukta Hornad in the lead, is not your run-of-the-mill action drama. The Kannada-language film is high on emotion and action. It will have you hooked whether you like it or not. In spite of evidence of brilliance scattered across this painfully unbridled torrent of violence, Toby leaves us with mixed feelings.

  15. 'Toby' movie review: Raj B Shetty's stylised, dark revenge saga

    The top-notch performances propel the film's interesting characters, but 'Toby' is marred by lack of surprises and a generic ending

  16. Toby Public Review

    Toby in Theatres: Dive into Kannada cinemas captivating world with Toby, directed by Basil Alchakkal. Raj B. Shetty leads the cast as the enigmatic titular character. A tale of transformation ...

  17. Toby review: Performance is the highlight of this endearing love

    Toby's endearing relationship with Jenny forms the crux of the story, which has an equal measure of romance, revenge and violence..toby malayalam movie. toby kannada movie. toby movie review. entertainment news. raj b shetty movies

  18. 'Toby' Movie Review

    Here's Sonu Venugopal's review of 'Toby' written by Raj B. Shetty and directed by debutant Basil Alchalakkal. The film stars Raj B. Shetty, Samyukta Hornad, Chaithra J Achar and Raj Deepak ...

  19. Toby Reviews

    Reviews: Toby, Kannada movie , Directed by Basil Alchalakkal, Starring Raj B Shetty, Chaithra Achar, Samyuktha Horanadu, Gopalkrishna Deshpande, Raj Deepak Shetty

  20. Toby Public Honest Review

    Toby Public Honest Review | Toby Review | Raj B Shetty | Chaitra Achar | Samyuktha | Review #publicreview #toby

  21. 'Toby' film review: An unavoidable, honest piece of art

    4 min read. In the realm of cinema, the fusion of personal anguish and creative flair exerts an unparalleled magnetism. Toby, the recent creation of filmmaker Raj B Shetty embodies this ...

  22. TOBY Movie Review

    Toby is a Kannada new film starring Raj b shetty which is released grandly. Here is the audience review for the movie Toby, where they share there responses ...

  23. Toby REVIEW: Is Raj B Shetty's action Kannada film worth YOUR time

    Toby, directed by Basil Alchalakkal, is set in Uttara Kannada's Kumta area. Toby was inspired by TK Dayanand's short story. Raj B Shetty worked on the screenplay carefully by keeping the originality. The film has received excellent feedback and acclaim. According to the available information, Toby is the narrative of an alienated guy who is ...

  24. List of Kannada films of 2023

    Sweet & Salt Movies [54] Ramzan: Panchakshari C. E. Sangamesh Upase, Premavathi Upase, Baby Ishani Universal Studio [50] 28: Raaghu: M. Anand Raj Vijay Raghavendra: DKS Studios Kota Film Factory [55] Raghavendra Stores: Santhosh Ananddram: Jaggesh, Shwetha Srivatsav, Ravishankar Gowda: Hombale Films [56] M A Y: 12: Feel My Love: D T Ramesh ...

  25. Toby Film

    Toby (Kannada) Film | My Opinion Very Few Films Leave a Powerful Impact Like This. Toby is Such a good mass film with meaning & respect. This is My Opinion on Toby, Written By Raj. B. Shetty ...