For years, the cornerstone of compelling cinema has been the art of showing more than telling, crafting narratives that evoke emotion and intellect without overt explanation. Yet, with the surge of content on OTT platforms, this traditional tenet seems challenged as new releases often opt for didacticism over subtlety. ‘Do Patti’ is a recent entry into the realm of streaming cinema, bypassing theaters to showcase its message-driven storytelling directly in living rooms. However, it becomes another example of films that deliver a heavy-handed message, yet fall short in other cinematic realms.
Much akin to its spiritual predecessors ‘Seeta Aur Geeta’ and ‘Darlings’, ‘Do Patti’ embarks on a journey, initially adopting the guise of a police procedural, then meandering through the world of chick-lit, before concluding as a poignant examination of domestic abuse. Or perhaps, it functions as a dramatic interpretation of the Bell Bajao campaign against domestic violence. Writer Kanika Dhillon’s dialogues exhibit sharpness and intent, yet the screenplay struggles with maintaining a consistent tone, presenting a patchy and overly convenient narrative that stifles deep connection with its characters amidst the genre amalgamation. The film dances around the theme of choosing the spirit over the letter of the law but ironically fails to embody this choice in its cinematic execution.
Set against the picturesque backdrop of Uttarakhand’s mist-laden hills, ‘Do Patti’ unfurls the tale of two sisters, both portrayed by the versatile Kriti Sanon, and a tenacious police officer, brought to life by Kajol. This trio is embroiled in unraveling an attempted murder case. The sisters, Saumya and Shailee, are two distinct individuals molded by a shared turbulent past. Saumya is the gentle soul, while Shailee boasts flamboyance and a conceited air. Yet, their common history drives them toward the same man, leading to a complex narrative of rivalry and redemption.
In strides Dhruv Sood, played by Shaheer Sheikh, the classic entitled brat born into a politician’s family in Haryana. With charm that captivates yet conceals, Dhruv harbors deep-seated anger issues, captured in Sheikh’s portrayal of a character clinging desperately to the power structures bestowed upon him by a patriarchal society.
. Dhruv sees the sisters as mere decoration, objects to showcase according to the season or the guest in his house.
Kanika Dhillon sheds light on the violence women silently endure within such patriarchal frameworks but alongside director Shashanka Chaturvedi, finds it challenging to thread poignant moments and acute social insights into a fluid, compelling narrative. While Mart Ratassepp’s cinematography superbly frames Uttarakhand’s allure for adventure enthusiasts, it offers little for viewers seeking depth within the characters’ psychological landscapes.
Kriti Sanon executes the dual role with finesse, embodying both submission and rebellion inherent within the feminine psyche. However, this dual role inadvertently signals the forthcoming plot twists well in advance, reducing what could be moments of cinematic surprise to mere exercises in showcasing an actor’s range. Meanwhile, Shaheer Sheikh delivers a performance formed from precision and restraint, yet the struggle to rise above the material without overshadowing the narrative is palpable and surfaces as on-screen bewilderment.
On the law enforcement front, Kajol joins the ranks of seasoned actresses like Raveena Tandon and Karishma Kapoor, stepping into the shoes of a police officer. Her character retains verve despite life’s challenges and bureaucratic hurdles. Kajol injects her signature spontaneity, even as the script’s local expletives don’t effortlessly roll off her tongue. Over time, a talented performer finds herself constrained by uneven scripting and fellow creative collaborators’ imposed boundaries.
As ‘Do Patti’ streams on Netflix, it presents an engaging yet ultimately limited exploration of its multifaceted themes. The film bears the weight of its ambitious narrative but falters in its pursuit of balance between poignant storytelling and impactful social commentary. Whether seeking an introspective piece on domestic violence or a captivating thriller, audiences might find themselves caught in the middle of a cinematic landscape striving for cohesive expression amidst complexity. It calls into question if simplifying profound messages does justice to the artistry, as aiding comprehension simultaneously risks diluting the very experiences it aims to amplify.
