#FinalVerdict: FIASCO
Rating: 2 stars
Khuda Haafiz has some engrossing moments in the first hour, that's about it. The post-interval portions are an absolute downer. This one is a golden opportunity lost, a king-sized disappointment!
Khuda Haafiz throws light at issues such as prostitution and human trafficking. Faruk Kabir's story is formula-ridden and moves at snail's pace. The writer/director could have done so much with the content but, sadly, he lets go of this golden opportunity. The screenwriting has some moments in the first hour but the narrative loosens the grip as it progresses. Worse, too many cinematic liberties and a lifeless second hour act as roadblocks. The dialogues between Annu Kapoor and Vidyut Jammwal are superb.
Actor-turned-director Faruk Kabir does manage to make an impact, but with such poor written material on hand, he could not salvage the show either. Also, to his credit, he has extracted top-notch performances from the cast. Mithoon's music is in sync with the narrative. DoP Jitan Harmeet Singh captures the stunning visuals of Uzbekistan with finesse. Amar Mohile's background score is apt. The production design is top-notch. NY Vfxwaala's VFX is A1. Sandeep Francis' editing is uneven. The film could've done with shorter run time.
Khuda Haafiz would've been unbearable had the casting director (Apurva Singh Rathore) entrusted the acting reins in inept hands. Vidyut Jammwal delivers a knockout performance. Shivaleeka Oberoi radiates innocence. An actor to watch! Annu Kapoor is tremendous, as always. Shiv Panditt packs a punch. Aahana Kumra excels. Nawab Shah is effective. Moreover, each character gets the Arabic-Hindi diction spot on and the sole action set-piece is gory.
To sum up, Khuda Haafiz is style over substance. Strictly for Vidyut Jammwal fans!
No comments:
Post a Comment