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Recently released on Netflix, ‘Afwaah’  (translation: Rumour) is a thought-provoking Hindi-language mystery thriller directed by Sudhir Mishra. The film delves into the perils and repercussions of rumors, particularly in the age of social media. With an engaging narrative and a talented ensemble cast, ‘Afwaah’  explores the dark side of society, media, and the consequences of unfounded speculations.

In ‘Afwaah’ , we meet Rahab Ahmed (played by the incredible Nawazuddin Siddiqui), a renowned advertising professional, and Nivedita Singh (portrayed by the talented Bhumi Pednekar), a political heiress. Their lives take an unexpected turn when they find themselves entangled in a treacherous web of rumors created by the ever-present social media platforms. Sudhir Mishra skillfully illustrates how these whispers can morph into dangerous weapons, wreaking havoc on individuals and their relationships.

One of the standout qualities of ‘Afwaah’  lies in its intense storytelling. The film keeps its narrative firmly rooted in reality, shedding light on the sinister aspects of society and media. It fearlessly tackles the hazards of social media and even provides a glimpse into the religious conflicts happening in our neighboring country, drawing inspiration from real-life events of the past. The result is a thought-provoking piece of cinema that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Now, let’s talk about performances. Nawazuddin Siddiqui delivers a masterful portrayal as Rahab Ahmed, infusing his character with depth and nuance. It’s a shame, though, that his potential for even greater intensity is underutilized. On the other hand, Bhumi Pednekar shines as Nivedita Singh, showcasing her versatility and capturing the essence of her character with sheer conviction.

Bhumi Pednekar truly steals the show in ‘Afwaah’ . She brings to life a social rebel who exudes a delightful mix of confidence and respect for personal boundaries. As an heiress, her character holds the power to wield influence, but in a patriarchal world, she becomes a victim of misogyny, even within her own family. Despite the challenges she faces, Pednekar’s portrayal of Nivedita radiates strength and boldness, leaving a lasting impact.

The supporting cast, featuring talents like Sharib Hashmi, Sumit Kaul, Sumeet Vyas, and Appurv Gupta, adds depth and effectiveness to the film's overall impact. Together, they create a compelling ensemble that enhances the viewing experience.

While ‘Afwaah’  maintains a gripping pace for the most part, there are instances where it might feel a tad slow and lethargic. The climax, in particular, ventures into the realm of Bollywoodish fiction but unfortunately falls short in execution, lacking the impact it initially promised. Nonetheless, these minor shortcomings don't overshadow the film’s strengths.

In a nutshell, ‘Afwaah’  is a compelling drama thriller that offers valuable insights into the power of rumors and their far-reaching consequences. The performances are commendable, the writing is solid, and Sudhir Mishra's direction keeps you engaged throughout the film. Though it may not skyrocket to superhit status, it remains a captivating watch for audiences craving a thought-provoking cinematic experience.

Who should watch it? 

If you’re a fan of slow-burn thrillers, this one’s right up your alley. It may take its time to unfold, but it grips you with its intensity. The storytelling feels genuine and relatable, making it a worthwhile investment of your time. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0drCO1XmlNU 

Genre: Drama/Thriller

Rating: 3.5 stars

Cast: Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Bhumi Pednekar 

Director: Sudhir Mishra

Run time: 2hrs 6mins

‘Gumraah’, available on Netflix, is a captivating whodunit in which the identity of the killer is unveiled right at the start. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes evident that there is more to it than meets the eye. Two individuals, both identical, vehemently deny their involvement in the murder, leaving the audience perplexed. The Hindi-language thriller ‘Gumraah’ is an official remake of the Tamil sleeper hit movie ‘Thadam,’ starring Arun Vijay, which was also remade into Telugu as ‘Red,’ featuring Ram Pothineni. Drawing inspiration from true stories of similar crimes, the movie retains its mind-boggling suspense until the end. As I had watched both the South Indian versions, I approached Gumraah with a sense of skepticism. Bollywood has, on one too many occasions, failed to do justice to remakes, diluting the essence of the original movies. But I’m delighted to share that the makers of ‘Gumraah’ have not only succeeded in adapting the movie effectively but have also managed to preserve its intrigue, thrill, and suspense. The outstanding performance of Aditya Roy Kapoor, who is seen in the lead role, deserves a special mention. Kapoor, an underrated talent of Bollywood, has yet to find his rightful place in Hindi cinema. In ‘Gumraah’, he seizes the opportunity to showcase his acting prowess, convincingly playing the tricky doppelganger suspects, Arjun Saigal and Ronnie. He effortlessly navigates the complexities of these two contrasting characters, infusing them with distinct emotions that leave a lasting impact on the audience. Director Vardhan Ketkar’s sharp vision and meticulous execution, combined with the screenplay by Aseem Arora and Magizh Thirumeni, successfully recreate the drama and suspense of the original Tamil movie. ‘Gumraah’ effectively uses flashbacks to build its narrative, keeping the viewers on the edge of their seats. While there may be a few instances where certain scenes feel a little sluggish, the overall impact is overshadowed by the commendable performances and skillful filmmaking. Furthermore, Vineet Malhotra’s cinematography adds another layer of depth to the storytelling. His adept use of lighting, shadows, and framing enhances the mood of the movie, creating an atmosphere of tension and uncertainty. The juxtaposition of vibrant colors with somber tones further intensifies the visual experience, perfectly complementing the narrative’s dark and mysterious nature. Malhotra'’ contribution significantly elevates the overall quality of ‘Gumraah’, making it a visually captivating thriller. The movie’s focus on two suspects who bear an uncanny resemblance poses a unique challenge for the writers and director in maintaining the delicate balance of guilt and innocence. However, they skillfully navigate this challenge, masterfully crafting a narrative that keeps the audience guessing until the climactic revelation. For viewers who have not watched the earlier versions, ‘Gumraah’ offers a special treat as the unexpected outcome makes an unnerving impact. In addition to Kapoor’s standout performance, the supporting cast delivers commendable portrayals. Mrunal Thakur shines as Sub Inspector Shivani Mathur, a headstrong and determined cop assigned to investigate the case. Thakur embodies the role with conviction, portraying a character who refuses to back down in the face of adversity. Ronit Roy impresses as ACP Dhiren Yadava, a conniving officer with a personal vendetta against Arjun, willing to compromise his morals and ethics to ensure his incarceration. Who should watch it? ‘Gumraah’ is a gripping thriller that appeals to both those unfamiliar with the earlier versions and those who have seen the Tamil or Telugu adaptations. With Aditya Roy Kapoor’s stellar portrayal of the doppelgangers, coupled with the movie’s engaging storyline and skillful direction, it offers a riveting cinematic experience. The added dimension brought by Vineet Malhotra’s cinematography further enhances the movie’s visual appeal. If you’re in search of an enthralling whodunit with a captivating climax, ‘Gumraah’ should be at the top of your watchlist. Gumraah Rating: 3.5 stars Genre: Crime thriller Director: Vardhan Ketkar Actors: Aditya Roy Kapoor, Mrunal Thakur, Ronit Roy Rune time: 2hrs 7mins  

Remember when ‘Extraction’ was released back in April 2020 and received criticism, particularly from Southeast Asians, for its yellowish tint? It seemed the movie’s depiction of Southeast Asia led to the decision of using a yellow filter to create an oversaturated color palette, aiming to portray warm and tropical climates. Personally, I found this approach off-putting, with the dirty and jaundiced portrayal of Bangladesh, our neighboring country. And guess what? In the sequel, as the story moves to Europe, the color palette reverts to being bright and beautiful. Our hero, Tyler Rake (Chris Hemsworth), who miraculously survived his deadly mission in Bangladesh, now plans to retire in the Austrian wilderness. However, fate has different plans as he is approached by a stranger for another rescue mission. This time, the assignment is personal for Tyler, as he must extract his estranged ex-wife’s sister, Ketevan (Tinatin Dalakishvili), and her two children, Sandro and Nina, from a dangerous prison in Georgia. With the assistance of his trusted aides, Nik (Golshifteh Farahani) and Yaz (Adam Bessa), Tyler infiltrates the prison to rescue the family from the clutches of their menacing gangster father, Davit. Despite successfully extracting his targets, the mission takes a wrong turn, leading to Davit’s demise. This sets the whole group as a target for Zurab (Tornike Gogrichiani), Davit’s older brother and leader of their criminal family. Zurab deploys his highly skilled mercenaries and power to eliminate the entire group in retribution. The film follows Tyler and his team as they strive to save Ketevan’s family while confronting haunting memories from the past. Directed by Sam Hargrave, written by Joe Russo, and based on the graphic novel ‘Ciudad’, ‘Extraction 2’ continues its action-packed and thrilling storytelling. However, compared to the first movie, the sequel introduces a touch of melodrama, making the two-hour-long movie feel slightly lengthy and slow-paced at times. Nevertheless, the movie doesn’t lack action and adventure. Similar to franchises like ‘Taken’ and ‘The Equalizer’, the Extraction movies revolve around the theme of rescue. The plot is straightforward. The protagonist must rescue someone from a perilous situation. Yet, the movie’s action sequences, sprinkled with snippets of backstory and character development, provide an enjoyable and fresh experience. Alongside Hemsworth’s compelling performance and thrilling action sequences in the lead role, the cinematography by Newton Thomas Sigel stands out as one of the movie’s highlights. While the first installment took us through the bustling streets of Bangladesh, Extraction 2 showcases the picturesque beauty of central Europe. The camera skillfully captures high-speed chases on trains, gunfights in high-rise buildings, and helicopter scenes. In addition to the storytelling and camerawork, the background music by Henry Jackman and Alex Belcher intensifies the thrills conveyed by the visual sequences. A good action movie is incomplete without a fitting background score, and Extraction 2 delivers precisely that. Who should watch it? ‘Extraction 2’ may not surpass the expectations set by the first movie in the franchise, but it comes close. The filmmakers have delved into Tyler Rake’s character, providing audiences with a glimpse into his life and past. This also hints at a future installment in the series, with Idris Elba making a special appearance and recruiting Tyler for another dangerous mission. Considering all these elements, I believe ‘Extraction 2’ is a must-watch for action movie enthusiasts and fans of Chris Hemsworth. https://youtu.be/Y274jZs5s7s Rating: 4 stars Extraction 2 Genre: Action, adventure Director: Sam Hargrave Actors: Chris Hemsworth, Golshifteh Farahani, Adam Bessa Run time: 2hrs

One of the reasons I admire OTT platforms is the opportunities they provide to talented individuals who might not have made it to the traditional Bollywood screen due to industry politics and standards. Netflix’s latest release, ‘Scoop,’ not only serves as a gripping crime drama series but also marks a remarkable comeback for actors who had previously faced setbacks in their careers. Created and directed by Hansal Mehta, this streaming television series takes inspiration from the biographical memoir ‘Behind Bars in Byculla: My Days in Prison’ by Indian journalist Jigna Vora. Vora was accused of the murder of reporter Jyotirmoy Dey in 2011 and endured a seven-year-long struggle before being acquitted. Karishma Tanna, a prominent figure in the Indian television industry who had struggled to make an impact in Bollywood, delivers an outstanding performance in the lead role of Jagruti Pathak. Pathak, a crime reporter, finds herself entangled in a web of conspiracy when a fellow journalist is murdered. Tanna’s portrayal breathes life into the character, showcasing her resilience and determination. Harman Baweja, in a role that allows him to showcase his acting prowess without being heavily criticized, portrays JCP Harshavardhan Shroff. JCP Shroff has personal, professional, and political motives to ensure Pathak is found guilty of the crime. While JCP Shroff relentlessly works to charge Pathak, Imran Siddiqui (Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub), the bureau chief of Eastern Page and Pathak’s boss, stands in his way. Siddiqui tirelessly investigates the murder, seeking justice and securing Pathak’s release from judicial custody. The series portrays Vora’s real-life ordeal during her seven months in judicial custody, fighting for bail. The trial, lasting more than half a decade, ultimately destroys her journalism career. It explores her vibrant personality before the case and the subsequent impact of the allegations, nearly shattering her spirit. Adapting real-life incidents for screen is no easy feat, but writer/director Mehta successfully captures the intense moments of Vora’s ordeal. Scoop not only focuses on Vora as the central character but also delves into the selfishness, moral conflicts, and corruption prevailing in journalism, policing, and politics. In a subtle manner, the series satirizes the current state of journalism, where business interests often overshadow ethics. It also sheds light on the plight of individuals forced into the darker side of the profession due to external pressures. Additionally, it touches upon the pervasive sexism in society, highlighting how outspoken women can face opposition from their colleagues and peers. Tanna delivers one of her career-best performances as the outspoken and resilient Jagruti. She flawlessly embodies the character, tackling every challenge head-on without succumbing to adversity. Even in vulnerable situations, Jagruti exudes dignity and pride. Known for her previous comical and romantic roles, Tanna undergoes a remarkable transformation in portraying Jagruti, and her efforts are commendable throughout the series. Ayyub shines as Imran, one of the few journalists who upholds his integrity without compromising for money or fame. Despite facing threats that could jeopardize everything he holds dear, Imran refuses to yield to pressure. Ayyub convincingly portrays the honest, intense, and intelligent character, breaking barriers with his versatility. Who should watch it? Crime drama enthusiasts seeking a gripping and intense series will find Scoop captivating. Fans of Karishma Tanna and Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub will be delighted by their exceptional performances. Additionally, those intrigued by the exploration of the dark side of journalism, corruption, and the resilience to overcome challenges will find this series intriguing. Moreover, those interested in real-life stories of criminals and gangs will be drawn to the movie, as it features a pivotal role played by a real Indian gangster, without mentioning his name to avoid further publicity. Rating: 4 stars https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mmnQzRP-NZ4 Genre: Crime Drama Actors: Karishma Tanna, Harman Baweja, Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub Director: Hansal Mehta Run time: Six episodes of roughly one hour each

Remember the heart-wrenching news that shook the world in May 2020? Sixteen migrant laborers in India, desperate to return home during the covid lockdown, met a tragic end as they were crushed by a running train. I vividly recall the gut-wrenching scenes on news channels, displaying their personal belongings scattered along the railway tracks and their lifeless bodies left in the wake of the devastating incident. This haunting episode serves as the powerful opening for ‘Bheed’, a thought-provoking Hindi-language social drama by the acclaimed filmmaker Anubhav Sinha. Anubhav Sinha, known for his socially relevant and compelling movies like ‘Mulk’, ‘Article 15’, and ‘Thappad’, takes on the monumental task of depicting one of the largest migration events in India since the partition of 1947. In Bheed, he delves deep into the harrowing narratives of individuals from diverse backgrounds who were crushed by the Covid-induced lockdown and the subsequent struggle to find their way back home. The film revolves around Police Officer Surya Kumar Singh (played by the versatile Rajkummar Rao), who is entrusted with the responsibility of sealing the Tejpur border, located 1200 kilometers from Delhi. Determined to carry out his orders, Surya must gather whatever limited resources he has to secure the border. However, the situation quickly spirals out of control as multitudes of migrants from all corners of the country converge at the border, desperate to cross over and reach their hometowns. Among them is Balram Trivedi (Pankaj Kapur), a watchman yearning to return home with his sick brother, and Geetanjali (Dia Mirza), a wealthy Delhiite trying to reunite with her daughter during the lockdown. These characters serve as powerful representatives of the collective struggles and aspirations of countless others who find themselves trapped in a similar predicament, all longing to cross the Tejpur border. Bheed adopts a somber black-and-white tone, a deliberate artistic choice that eschews sensationalism and instead presents the stark realities faced by these individuals with raw authenticity. Within the overarching narrative of people caught in dire circumstances, the movie delves into nuanced sub-stories, exploring themes of privilege, casteism, and the contrasting priorities of different social strata. The storytelling in Bheed is subtle yet impactful, delivering a realistic portrayal of the collision between castes, classes, and the basic survival instincts that drive humanity. While there may have been room for deeper character development and exploration of their backstories, one must acknowledge the constraints of a feature-length movie. Nonetheless, the undercooked characters, particularly Balram and Surya Kumar, act as the missing links that prevent the movie from reaching its full potential. Performance-wise, the entire cast delivers compelling portrayals that seamlessly blend with the screenplay and the movie’s stylistic choices. Rao and Kapur, in particular, shine in their respective roles, creating a captivating dynamic as their characters clash in their quests. The rest of the ensemble cast also deserves commendation for their unwavering commitment to their roles. The cinematography in Bheed is noteworthy, effectively capturing the characters as both part of a larger collective and as individuals with their unique struggles. Through skillful camerawork, their pain and anguish, etched on their faces, intensify the movie’s emotional impact, leaving an indelible impression on the viewers. Who should watch it? Bheed is not an easy movie to watch. It confronts viewers with the harsh realities of the lockdown and how it irreversibly transformed lives. However, for those willing to embark on an emotional journey and appreciate it as a profound work of cinematic art, Bheed offers a rewarding experience with its intense storytelling and exceptional filmmaking. Rating: 4 stars Genre: Drama Actors: Rajkummar Rao, Dia Mirza, Pankaj Kapur Director: Anubhav Sinha Run time: 2hrs 4mins https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lGAKZ6L9IVo

In the realm of ‘Kathal-A Jackfruit Mystery’ lies a captivating and multi-layered narrative that goes beyond its satirical comic exterior. Delving deep into the fabric of rural India, the movie fearlessly exposes various social issues that plague society. From the abuse of authority by politicians to the pervasive presence of casteism and gender stereotypes, Kathal shines a light on the ugly yet undeniable practices that persist. Recently released on Netflix, this Hindi-language satirical drama, written by Ashok Mishra and skillfully directed by Yashowardhan Mishra, is an exploration of societal dynamics with a quirky twist. The story revolves around the disappearance of two exotic breed jackfruits from the house of a local MLA, Munnalal Patera (played by Vijay Raaz). Wielding his influence, the powerful MLA manipulates the local police force into investigating the missing jackfruits. Under immense pressure, SP Angrez Singh Randhawa (portrayed by Gurpal Singh) is left with no choice but to assign Inspector Mahima Basor (Sanya Malhotra) and her faithful Constable Saurabh Dwivedi (Anant V. Joshi) to crack the case. Inspector Mahima, already renowned in the community for her previous triumphs, embarks on the investigation with the gardener as the primary suspect. However, what initially seems like a trivial vegetable theft gradually unravels a much darker crime involving kidnapping and human trafficking. Kathal effortlessly navigates a lighthearted tone, utilizing clever writing and tropes to deliver biting satire on the political and social systems prevalent in rural India. The movie’s narrative seamlessly connects the dots, unraveling a web of interconnectedness. Despite being produced under the Balaji banner, Kathal adopts an indie approach, eschewing big names to maintain a relatable and authentic feel. This organic touch resonates throughout the movie and is a standout aspect worth appreciating. The movie’s tight-knit script, screenplay, and direction work in harmony, ensuring a cohesive viewing experience. Although tackling grave and serious issues, the screenplay strikes a delicate balance, preventing the movie from descending into excessive darkness. A vibrant and lighthearted energy permeates each frame, enhancing the storytelling and engaging the audience. The impeccable craftsmanship of the movie extends to its talented ensemble cast. Newcomers Malhotra and Joshi hold their ground alongside industry veterans like Vijay Raaz, Raghubir Yadav, and Rajpal Yadav. Malhotra shines as Inspector Mahima, the movie’s lead protagonist. She flawlessly portrays Mahima’s spirit and capabilities while tackling the everyday battle against casteism, both in her profession as well as her personal life. Working in a male-dominated field, Mahima must assert herself as a female police officer. Additionally, she grapples with her love for Constable Saurabh, longing to marry him. However, societal patriarchy dictates that their union must wait until Saurabh receives a promotion and attains equality. Mahima’s character encapsulates the intricate layers woven into the movie’s narrative. Who should watch it? Kathal is a well-paced and witty movie that can be enjoyed by anyone who appreciates a good story infused with humor. It doesn’t burden itself with excessive expectations, making it an enjoyable experience for a wide range of viewers. Its simplicity, brevity, and organic nature make it an approachable and worthwhile watch for all. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wkqp8bs3Bro Rating: 4 stars Genre: Comedy, drama Run time: 1h 55m Actors: Sanya Malhotra, Vijay Raaz Director: Yashowardhan Mishra

I have been a fan of the Fast and Furious movie series since the beginning. But as time progressed, I found the movie’s action sequences over-the-top and the storytelling repetitive, following the same cliches and tropes. So, when I saw the trailer of the latest installment F9 a couple of years ago, I wasn’t very excited. However, when it was recently released on Netflix, I decided to give it a go, just for the sake of the good old times. F9 is just another road rage of a movie with the same people doing the same things, but this time taking the action sequences over the top. The stunts are so ridiculous that even my six-year-old son can’t conceive them when playing with his Hot Wheels collection. But none of the directors of the Fast and Furious franchise believe so, and director Justin Lin takes the car chases and action sequences to another level with an ensemble cast of some of the biggest names in Hollywood, and WWE. Vin Diesel reprises his iconic role as Dominic Toretto in this movie that showcases his family drama and history. Wrestling legend John Cena plays Jakob, his estranged brother, and arch nemesis in the movie. The plot follows Dom and his team as they try to retrieve a powerful device named Project Aries that can hack into any computer-controlled system, while also dealing with Jakob and a private army. There is not much to write about the movie besides its action sequences, cinematography, and visual effects. Despite having an ensemble cast of actors and a family drama to portray, there’s not much feeling put into any of the characters. Their dialogues just fly by at high speed while the audience is taken for a spin through traffic every once in a while. Maybe as a fan of the first few movies in the series, I was expecting a bit too much. But I’m just sad to see that I grew up emotionally while the movie series kicks out every bit of emotion from it. Still, it’s not a bad watch at all if you love all-out action movies. F9 is just an action-packed film that will satisfy fans of the franchise with its over-the-top stunts and action sequences. However, if you’re looking for an emotionally engaging and character-driven story, you might be disappointed. But if you are a die-hard fan of the Fast and Furious franchise, then F9 is a must-watch for you. The movie delivers on the over-the-top action, fast cars, and the ensemble cast that has become synonymous with the series. If you are a fan of action movies in general and don’t mind some moments of disbelief, then F9 can be an entertaining watch. The action sequences are impressive and there’s never a dull moment in the film. However, if you are looking for a well-rounded and emotionally engaging story, then F9 might not be for you. The plot is paper-thin, and the characters lack depth, making it difficult to invest in their struggles. Who should watch it? Overall, F9 is a mindless action movie that delivers on its promise of high-octane entertainment. If that’s what you’re looking for, then grab some popcorn and buckle up for a wild ride. Genre: Action Rating: 2.5 stars Actors: Vin Diesel, John Cena, Charlize Theron Director: Justin Lin Run time: 2hrs 23mins

Although I’m not typically drawn to stories about young love, I decided to give ‘Almost Pyaar with DJ Mohabbat’ a chance because Anurag Kashyap wrote and directed it. But despite respecting Kashyap’s eccentric and cryptic filmmaking style, I was surprised to see how little of his earlier self could be found in the movie. It seemed as though he randomly picked a script and cast members to create what could be his least influential work to date. The film tells parallel stories in two distinct cities: Dalhousie and London. In Dalhousie, a young woman named Amrita (Alaya F) develops feelings for a young man named Yaqub (Karan Mehta). In London, an affluent Pakistani girl named Ayesha (also played by Alaya F) is infatuated with an up-and-coming DJ named Harmeet (played by Mehta). The only connection between the two stories is DJ Mohabbat (played by Vicky Kaushal) who appears in both. Amrita and Harmeet are both fans of DJ Mohabbat who hosts a popular podcast about love and is also a musician. Despite knowing that many reviewers and audience members would disagree with me, I found the main characters to be quite awkwardly portrayed. Kashyap attempts to inject mystery into their personalities, but I have to admit that he fails to establish a rapport with the young adults in the story. Furthermore, Kaushal’s portrayal of DJ Mohabbat doesn’t convincingly sell you the idea that he is a love guru. Although there are no complaints to be made about the actor himself, the script tries to depict him as an articulate philosopher who can shape young people’s perspectives on love and life with his insightful comments. Unfortunately, this portrayal falls short. In Kashyap’s other movies, socio-political commentary has always played a significant role in storytelling. However, in Almost Pyaar it appears to be an afterthought. The movie tries to address issues such as religious and class-based intolerance, toxic patriarchy, and the naivety of today’s youth in the age of social media. The plot employs two parallel narratives featuring the same actors as two almost lovers. One of the storylines tackles homophobia, Islamophobia, and the controversial accusation of ‘love jihad’ on the Muslim community. The other highlights how older family members can be both loving and caring while also holding homophobic and Islamophobic views. It also depicts how fathers and brothers feel entitled to dictate whom their daughters and sisters can date. Despite these genuine and relevant issues, Kashyap fails to deliver a captivating screenplay that captures the essence of these themes and engages the audience on a deeper level. In terms of technical aspects, the cinematography of ‘Almost Pyaar with DJ Mohabbat’ is decent but it could have been better. There are some beautiful frames that capture the essence of the locations but it lacks the visual appeal that one would expect from an Anurag Kashyap film. Moreover, the songs and scores by Amit Trivedi are not impressive at all. Although the movie is marketed as a romantic musical, there isn’t a single track that stands out and the background score is also lackluster. It feels like Trivedi’s compositions were hastily put together without much thought or creativity. To sum it all up, it appears that Kashyap had to work under a tight budget and deadline, which might explain why the film lacks the depth and complexity that his past productions are known for. Who should watch it? If you are a die-hard Anurag Kashyap fan, you might want to watch ‘Almost Pyaar with DJ Mohabbat’ out of curiosity but be prepared to be disappointed. This movie might also appeal to those who enjoy light-hearted, feel-good romantic movies with a touch of drama. However, if you are looking for a thought-provoking, socially relevant movie or a musical with memorable songs, this might not be the right choice for you. Rating: 2 stars Almost Pyar Genre: Romance/drama Actors: Alaya F, Karan Mehta, Vicky Kaushal Director: Anurag Kashyap Run time: 2hr 1min https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SbLFK5TLX2Y