Eyes: Stalking is not love, rejection is not retaliation

The Malayalam web series 'Eyes' tackles the critical issue of stalking and toxic relationships, aiming to debunk the myth that obsession is a form of love. Directed by Manu Ashokan and written by Bobby-Sanjay, the crime thriller streams on Sony Liv and features seven episodes.

The series presents four distinct cases to explore various facets of obsession, stalking, and control. These include a photographer obsessed with an actress, a woman in a toxic relationship, an IAS officer and his wife, and a couple facing relationship troubles after eloping. Each narrative delves into psychological and social factors that can escalate such dangerous behaviors.

While the premise is compelling and the message relevant, 'Eyes' faces criticism for uneven pacing and occasional narrative shallowness. Some cases, like the IAS officer's, are psychologically complex, whereas others are more conventional. The integration of the 'Eyes' app, designed to prevent stalking, highlights the potential of technology but also its limitations in predicting violence.

Performances are a significant strength, with notable contributions from Kani Kusruti as a stern police officer and Jaffer Idukki as a menacing character. The series is notably driven by its female characters, who are portrayed not just as victims but as investigators and individuals navigating complex lives. This focus, along with a female story developer, brings a fresh perspective to the narrative.