Vikramaditya Motwane's "Ctrl" comes with high expectations, especially given his reputation for storytelling that often pushes boundaries. Unfortunately, despite a promising premise centered around digital surveillance and AI ethics, the film falls flat, resulting in a two-dimensional narrative that lacks emotional depth and complexity.

At the heart of "Ctrl" is Maya (Ananya Panday), a brilliant but morally conflicted tech prodigy who accidentally uncovers a dark conspiracy involving AI and government surveillance. The story initially piques interest with its modern-day relevance, touching on issues like privacy invasion, data security, and the human cost of unchecked technology. However, while the premise is intriguing, the film’s execution feels superficial, never fully delving into the ethical and psychological complexities of the subject matter.

Ananya Panday, who takes on the challenging role of Maya, gives a performance that shows potential but ultimately lacks the emotional gravitas needed to carry the film. While she captures the character’s initial curiosity and confusion, her portrayal of Maya’s internal struggles with power and morality feels one-note. Panday shines in moments of vulnerability but falters in scenes requiring deeper emotional resonance. Her character’s transformation from a naïve coder to someone embroiled in a high-stakes game feels underdeveloped, leaving viewers disconnected from her journey.

Vikramaditya Motwane, known for his visually arresting storytelling, injects "Ctrl" with moments of sleek cinematography and a stylish portrayal of the tech world. The film has a polished look, with cold, metallic hues that emphasize technology's sterile, impersonal nature. Yet, this focus on visual aesthetics often comes at the cost of narrative depth. The direction feels more concerned with making a statement on modern technology than engaging the audience with compelling characters or a gripping plot.

"Ctrl" had the potential to be a thought-provoking thriller in the age of AI, but it ultimately falls short due to its shallow narrative and underdeveloped characters. Ananya Panday’s performance, while earnest, cannot elevate a script that lacks the complexity and tension needed to sustain a film of this nature. For viewers hoping for a deep dive into the dark side of technology, "Ctrl" offers little more than a surface-level exploration