Streaming on Zee5, Logout is a new-age psychological thriller that deals with social media addiction and influence. Is it good enough to keep you from logging out?
Storyline
Pratyush Dua a.k.a. Pratman, about 25, is a social media influencer on the verge of hitting 10 million followers. His life is all about reels, viewer engagement, fame and an ongoing rivalry with a fellow influencer. But just as he’s about to cross the milestone, disaster strikes: his mobile phone goes missing. In Pratman’s world, that means becoming a vegetable. Things take a weird turn when a mysterious girl—who claims to be his biggest fan—connects with him through his computer app. She seems to have information about the mobile and offers to help… but only if he plays by her rules. What follows is a psychological rollercoaster that turns his life upside down.
Can Pratman reclaim his mobile? Can he achieve his follower goal? Who is the fan girl?
Our critique
At first, Logout sets up an intriguing premise that reminds of films like CTRL, with its take on social media addiction and the dark side of digital fame. The opening provides a glimpse into Pratman’s world and we empathize with him when his mobile is lost and his digital presence is under threat. Instead of tightening its grip, the narrative faulters, becoming increasingly far-fetched and, even boring. If you still manage to reach the end, the climax will make you think, why you stayed logged in for so long.
Visually and stylistically, it feels more like a student film project: shot in a single room, ironically on a mobile phone itself. The screenplay, dialogues, pacing, everything seems below par.
Screen Performances
Babil Khan shoulders the film, but it’s too much of an ask. Known for strong performances in Qala and The Railway Men, he seems oddly out of sync here. His dialogue delivery lacks punch, and the emotional depth feels missing, making it hard to watch.
Overall opinion
Logout had the potential to be a tight, edgy commentary on our online obsessions. Instead, it loses its power and is unable to keep you active.
Our rating
