CTRL: A Deep Dive into the Digital Abyss
1. Introduction
CTRL, directed by Vikramaditya Motwane, is a screenlife thriller that delves into the complexities of artificial intelligence and social media. Starring Ananya Panday as Nella Awasthi, the film explores the consequences of our digital lives and the lengths to which one might go to escape painful memories.

2. Plot Summary
The story follows Nella, a popular social media influencer who discovers that her boyfriend, Joe (Vihaan Samat), has been unfaithful. In a moment of desperation, she turns to an AI app designed to erase unwanted memories. However, as Nella begins to lose touch with her reality, the app spirals out of control, leading to unforeseen and dangerous consequences.
3. Character Analysis
- Ananya Panday as Nella Awasthi: Ananya delivers a compelling performance, capturing Nella’s emotional turmoil as she grapples with betrayal and the allure of digital escapism. Her character’s journey from a carefree influencer to someone facing the dark side of technology is both relatable and thought-provoking.
- Vihaan Samat as Joe Mascarenhas: Joe serves as the catalyst for Nella’s transformation. His character is essential in showcasing the impact of infidelity on relationships in the age of social media.
- Supporting Characters: Devika Vatsa and Suchita Trivedi add depth to the narrative, portraying friends and family who reflect various perspectives on technology’s role in modern life.

4. Themes and Messages
CTRL tackles several pressing themes:
- The Dangers of AI: The film raises questions about reliance on technology and its potential to manipulate our memories and identities.
- Social Media’s Impact: It critiques the superficiality of online personas and how they can distort reality.
- Personal Relationships: The narrative explores trust, betrayal, and the struggle for authenticity in a digitally driven world.
5. Direction and Cinematography
Vikramaditya Motwane’s direction is ambitious, employing innovative storytelling techniques typical of screenlife films. The cinematography effectively captures both the vibrant world of social media and the darker undertones of Nella’s journey. The use of split screens and real-time interactions enhances the immersive experience.
6. Performances
The performances are a highlight of CTRL. Ananya Panday shines in her role, showcasing a range of emotions from vulnerability to empowerment. Vihaan Samat effectively portrays Joe’s charm and eventual moral ambiguity. Supporting actors contribute significantly, grounding the film in reality amidst its high-tech premise.
7. Critical Reception
Critics have offered mixed reviews for CTRL. While many praise Ananya’s performance and the film’s timely themes, some find fault with its pacing and narrative coherence. The film has been compared to Black Mirror for its exploration of technology’s darker implications but has received criticism for not fully realizing its potential.
8. Comparisons to Other Works
CTRL draws parallels with works like Black Mirror, particularly in its cautionary tales about technology gone awry. It also evokes memories of Shah Rukh Khan’s Ra.One, which similarly engages with themes of AI and identity but in a more fantastical context.
9. Conclusion
Overall, CTRL is an engaging exploration of contemporary issues surrounding technology and personal relationships. While it may not resonate with everyone due to its uneven pacing, it successfully prompts viewers to reflect on their own digital lives and choices.
10. Rating
I would rate CTRL a solid 3.5 out of 5 stars for its thought-provoking themes, strong performances, and innovative direction—making it worth a watch for anyone interested in the intersection of technology and human emotion.