Neeyat, starring Vidya Balan, presents an intriguing mystery that keeps audiences guessing. However, despite its potential, the film falls short due to lackluster performances and a convoluted plot. In this review, we delve into the strengths and weaknesses of Neeyat, analyzing its narrative, characters, and overall execution.
Unraveling the Mystery
Neeyat takes viewers on a slow-burning journey that gradually builds tension. The story revolves around an Indian billionaire named Ashish Kapoor (Ram Kapoor) and his entourage, who gather at a picturesque Scottish castle for his birthday celebration. Among the guests are Zara (Niki Aneja Walia), a tarot card reader and healer, Sanjay Suri (Neeraj Kabi) with wife Noor Suri (Dipannita Sharma), AK’s sultry girlfriend Lisa (Shahana Goswami), and several others, each with their own peculiarities.
However, the evening takes a dramatic turn when AK falls to his death from a cliff, turning the event into a murder investigation. CBI officer Mira Rao (Vidya Balan) arrives to solve the case, and what follows is a series of twists and turns as each character becomes a potential suspect.
The Strengths and Weaknesses
Neeyat manages to maintain viewers’ interest throughout its 132-minute runtime, as they eagerly await the revelation of the true culprit. However, the film’s major flaw lies in its sluggish pacing, especially in the first half. The introduction of numerous characters becomes overwhelming, and their performances range from commendable to mediocre, failing to leave a lasting impression.
The screenplay suffers from being overly complicated, with an excess of subplots that distract from the main storyline. Director Anu Menon, along with the writing team of Girvani Dhyani, Advaita Kala, and Priya Venkataraman, struggle to strike the right balance, resulting in a narrative that feels disjointed at times.
Cinematic Brilliance and Performances
While the story may have its faults, Neeyat excels in certain technical aspects. Cinematographer Andreas Neo skillfully captures the enchanting beauty of the castle and its surroundings, providing breathtaking aerial shots. Despite some scenes being set in darkness, the cinematography ensures that viewers can always follow the action.
The performances in Neeyat range from average to notable. Vidya Balan, in her role as CBI officer Mira Rao, portrays a character who is both eccentric and intelligent. However, the character feels underdeveloped, leaving loose ends that are never fully resolved. Ram Kapoor exudes the charisma and sophistication expected of a wealthy businessman, while Neeraj Kabi brings depth to his performance. Dipannita Sharma and Shahana Goswami add a touch of glamour to the film, although their characters lack substantial depth.
The Verdict
In summary, Neeyat falls short of its potential. The film’s weak writing and lack of a focused screenplay hinder its success. Despite a captivating climax that surprises audiences, it arrives too late to salvage the overall viewing experience. Nevertheless, Neeyat offers visually stunning cinematography and a few commendable performances. It may be worth watching in theaters for its breathtaking vistas, but Vidya Balan fans may find themselves disappointed.
Source: Hindustan Times
