The latest release, “Apurva,” falls short of expectations, failing to captivate its audience with a story that lacks originality and depth. Clocking in at just around ninety minutes, this crime-drama starring Tara Sutaria takes audiences on a journey from Chambal to Agra, but sadly, it’s a journey that leaves viewers unimpressed and contemplating an early exit.
Lackluster Plot and Predictability
The narrative revolves around a group of local goons, Sukhi (Abhishek Banerjee), Jugnu (Rajpal Yadav), Balli (Sumit Gulati), and Chhota (Aaditya Gupta), whose motivations for crime are as basic as the film’s storyline. The prolonged build-up to their actions feels tedious, and by the time their motives are revealed, it’s hard to muster any interest. The goons’ decision to loot a car on NH44 sets off a chain of events that involves a brutal attack on a bus driver and the kidnapping of a young woman named Apurva, played by Tara Sutaria.
Shallow Script and Unimpressive Storytelling
Nikhil Nagesh Bhat, the writer, seems to struggle with crafting a compelling narrative. The story is summarized in a few words – four goons commit a crime, and their actions lead to a predictable series of events. The lack of fresh and engaging elements fails to evoke any excitement. The attempt to generate surprise relies heavily on the brutality inflicted on Apurva, but the methods employed by the goons lack innovation and fail to evoke genuine emotions.
Comparisons to Anushka Sharma’s “NH10” become inevitable, highlighting the stark difference in storytelling and the treatment of similar themes. “Apurva” falls short of delivering a narrative that commands respect or leaves a lasting impression.
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Performances: Tara Sutaria’s Improvement Amidst Mediocrity
Tara Sutaria, known for her previous roles where she often played decorative characters, finally gets a chance to showcase her acting skills. However, this improvement is overshadowed by the film’s overall mediocrity. While it’s a step up from her past performances, it still falls short of setting a new standard.
Rajpal Yadav’s departure from his usual comedic roles initially raises expectations, but as the story unfolds, it becomes apparent that the decision might not have been for the better. Abhishek Banerjee’s portrayal after the intense “Hathoda Tyagi” feels like a mismatch, reminiscent of Robert Downey Jr.’s unexpected turn in “Dolittle” after the grandeur of “Avengers: Endgame.” The remaining cast, Aaditya Gupta and Sumit Gulati, struggle to make a significant impact in a script that leaves them with little substance.
Direction and Cinematography: A Formulaic Approach
Director Nikhil Nagesh Bhat’s approach to storytelling and direction lacks innovation. The film appears to follow a formulaic path, and the lack of effort in crafting a unique narrative is evident. Anshuman Mahaley’s cinematography, while not outrightly flawed, adheres to a conventional treatment that fails to elevate the film beyond its predictable plot.
Lackluster Music and Background Score
Vishal Mishra’s songs, although individually commendable, do little to enhance the film’s overall impact. Their inclusion seems more like an attempt to fill the runtime rather than contribute meaningfully to the storyline. The background score, too, lacks the depth and intensity required to create a gripping atmosphere.
A Forgettable Experience
“Apurva” struggles to break free from the shadows of superior films like “NH10.” The lack of a compelling script, predictable storytelling, and performances that fail to leave a lasting impression make it a forgettable experience for viewers. While Tara Sutaria’s improved acting is a silver lining, it’s not enough to salvage a film that falls short on multiple fronts. As audiences weigh their options for a cinematic experience, “Apurva” pales in comparison to its more accomplished counterparts, leaving them with a desire for more substance and originality in the crime-drama genre.
