Varanasi, also known as "Kashi," is called the "city of truth," and its culture, religion, and traditions are deeply intertwined with the presence of Mahadev (Shiva). Mahadev's presence is felt everywhere, from greetings and salutations to the cycle of life and death.
Bhool Chuk Maaf Review: Watching "Bhool Chuk Maaf" made it clear that this film wasn't made for the big screen. Directed by Karan Sharma, this film, set in a specific social context in Uttar Pradesh, proves more suitable for an OTT platform in terms of its plot and presentation. Its theatrical release failed to meet audience expectations.
The Story's Mood: A Young Man Trapped in a Time Loop
The film revolves around two Brahmin families in Uttar Pradesh, where the dream of government jobs and the reality of corruption are starkly presented. The twist of the main character, played by Rajkummar Rao, being trapped in a time loop is reminiscent of films like "Groundhog Day" and "Naked." Rao's character is stuck in a single day, the day before his wedding, due to a vow made to Shiva.
Meanwhile, the story touches upon bribery and social pressure to obtain government jobs. This theme reflects the struggles of today's youth, but the director neither captures this sensitive topic effectively nor adds any new dimension to the narrative.
The film's dialogue often seems unnatural and confusing. The incorrect use of the word "bakaiiti" and the jarring local dialect make the viewing experience uncomfortable. The screenplay feels weak and repetitive, quickly diminishing the film's excitement.
Regarding the Performances
Rajkummar Rao's forced fit and Vamika Gabbi's underdeveloped character become weaknesses of the film. Vamika's role is neither adequately captured by the camera nor powerfully presented by the director. Seema Pahwa's performance is a bright spot, captivating the audience every time she appears. Despite the presence of veteran actors like Zakir Hussain and Raghuveer Yadav, their weight is overshadowed by the weak storyline.
The beauty of Kashi, filmed by Sudeep Chatterjee, is largely confined to drone shots. The real lanes and atmosphere of Varanasi are lost due to the reliance on Mumbai sets. Manish Pradhan's editing provides some momentum, but it cannot fully salvage the weak story.
Regarding the music and songs, Tanishk Bagchi's music and Irshad Kamil's lyrics fail to improve the weak plot. The songs distract the viewers and disrupt the film's flow.
The Film's Real Need: An OTT Release
Films like "Bhool Chuk Maaf" work better on OTT platforms. On a smaller screen, the film could be watched in segments, maintaining viewer interest. Sitting through two hours in a theater and enduring a weak screenplay becomes a challenge. If released on Netflix, Amazon Prime, or another OTT service, viewers could watch it comfortably at their own pace. Moreover, viewing such topics on a TV or mobile screen is more comfortable and impactful.
This film, attempting to depict the struggle for government jobs and social bitterness, fails to effectively convey its message. A weak screenplay, clumsy dialogue, and underdeveloped characters are its shortcomings. The technical aspects also fall short of expectations. "Bhool Chuk Maaf" is a decent attempt, but it's better suited for an OTT platform than a theatrical release. If you enjoy socially relevant films and appreciate Rajkummar Rao's acting, you might consider watching it on OTT.
If you're planning to spend a significant amount on tickets to see it in theaters this weekend, it might not meet your expectations. It's advisable to wait for its OTT release to fully appreciate its story and presentation.
