Film: Dhadak (Romantic drama)
Cast: Janhvi Kapoor, Ishaan Khatter, Ashutosh Rana
Direction: Shashank Khaitan
Duration: 2 hours, 17 minutes
Language: Hindi (U/A)
Critic’s Rating: 4/5
Story: 'Dhadak' is an adaptation of the mammoth Marathi hit, 'Sairat' (2016). Obviously, the plot line is similar. However, this one is based in exquisite Udaipur and has a rich texture and feel. Wealthy girl Parthavi (Janhvi Kapoor) loves poor boy, Madhukar (Ishaan Khatter).
They not only have diametrically opposite natures — she is cocky, while he’s unsure — but what makes matters worse is that they are also from different castes.
Review: Director Shashank Khaitan knows India’s heartland. His previous two outings — 'Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania' (2014) and 'Badrinath Ki Dulhania' (2017) — that had the desi mitti ki khushboo (smell of real India) and of course, a little sauciness, were super-successes. While one must remember that the Dulhania series also had the magical jodi of Varun Dhawan and Alia Bhatt, one cannot take it away from Shashank.
Here, he cleverly borrows the template of his previous movie outings. The first half is breezy, with situations that amply allow for small-town humour and sentiments. And, then you have the magnetic attraction between Ishaan and Janhvi that is predictable yet magical. Cinematographer Vishnu Rao likes his canvas warm and colourful. He also captures the young actors flatteringly. Add to this, two tracks inspired from Sairat by the inimitable Ajay-Atul, and at intermission point, you are merrily doing a Zingaat.
The second half, however, drags for a bit. Since the young couple is confused, penniless and groping to find new meaning, the pace dips. But this is also the half when you get to witness what fine mettle both Janhvi and Ishaan are made of. They display a gamut of emotions — love, pathos, angst and anger wonderfully.
The nice thing about Dhadak is that it neither overwhelms nor underwhelms you. It pushes all the right buttons and when you leave the theatre, you are satisfied. The climax (which we can’t reveal) is short yet spellbinding.
Of course, the real reason to see this film are the two young actors. Janhvi is a chip off the old block, Sridevi. Though she has miles to go before she sweeps every award there is, for now, she can be secure in the knowledge that she has a bright future. Kudos to Karan Johar for launching her.
As for Ishaan, well, he was terrific in 'Beyond The Clouds'. And here, he notches up yet another superb performance, making room for himself amongst B-Town’s most-promising actors.
Verdict: Give Dhadak a chance, if you believe in young love!
