Director: Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury
Ratings: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review: Kadak Singh defies the clichés of strict fathers or morally conflicted officers, offering a unique tale of power, manipulation, and identity. Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury’s direction, known for his work in “Pink” and “Lost,” ensures a genuine and relatable experience, steering clear of the artificiality often associated with fictional narratives.
AK Shrivastav, aka Kadak Singh, portrayed by Pankaj Tripathi, navigates a complex web of retrograde amnesia, surrounded by conflicting stories from his daughter Sakshi, girlfriend Naina, colleague Arjun, and boss Tyagi. The film unfolds as AK grapples with memory loss while unraveling a chit-fund scam, skillfully weaving between past and present in a 127-minute runtime.
Chowdhury’s non-linear storytelling immerses the audience, though at times disruptive, creating an engaging experience that holds attention throughout. The film seamlessly blends light-hearted moments, such as Tripathi’s flirtations with the head nurse, with emotionally charged scenes that delve into the intricacies of familial relationships.
The co-written narrative by Viraf Sarkari, Ritesh Shah, and Chowdhury maintains a crisp pace, avoiding unnecessary drag. The depth in both writing and cinematography shines in scenes like the emotionally charged exchanges between Tripathi and Sanghi, addressing the complexities of father-daughter dynamics.
Kadak Singh entertains and sparks a conversation on strained familial relationships, moving beyond the stereotypical portrayals seen in Bollywood. The film delicately touches on mental health and suicide, subtly raising awareness without overshadowing the central plot.
Performances
Pankaj Tripathi’s performance as Kadak Singh is a departure from his previous roles, showcasing his versatility and range. Sanjana Sanghi, playing his daughter Sakshi, delivers a nuanced performance, particularly in emotionally charged scenes that explore the complexities of father-daughter relationships. Jaya Ahsan as Pankaj Tripathi’s girlfriend brings balance to the narrative, and the chemistry between the characters is enhanced by Shantanu Moitra’s soulful music.
What Doesn’t Work
The non-linear storytelling, though immersive, occasionally disrupts the flow of the narrative, making it challenging to follow the timeline seamlessly. Additionally, certain light-hearted moments, while contributing to the overall mood, might feel a tad forced or disconnected from the film’s more serious themes.
Other than that, the film masterfully integrates light moments to uplift the mood, showcasing Pankaj Tripathi’s quirky side, especially in the flirtatious exchanges with the head nurse. The exploration of strained familial relationships adds depth to the storyline, breaking away from clichéd portrayals.
Aniruddha Roy Chowdhury subtly addresses mental health and suicidal tendencies, contributing to a broader conversation without overplaying the theme. The film, at 127 minutes, maintains a crisp pace, keeping viewers engaged without unnecessary drag.
Kadak Singh succeeds in being a feel-good film that stays true to its raw and real narrative, steering clear of unnecessary drama. It prompts reflection on overlooked aspects of life, making audiences both laugh and cry. Overall, the movie is a testament to the director’s ability to craft a compelling and relatable thriller, with Pankaj Tripathi’s performance standing out as a highlight.