The buzz around Mohit Suri’s latest, ‘Saiyaara,’ has been absolutely wild since its July 18th release, and I finally got to see what all the fuss is about. This Yash Raj Films production, introducing fresh faces Ahaan Panday as Krish and Anit Pada as Vaani, has certainly made waves, even surprisingly outperforming some big-name releases at the box office! It’s an intense love story about a musician and a writer whose lives intertwine amidst artistic struggles and, eventually, a heartbreaking challenge. Whether you’re just looking for a good time at the movies or you’re the type to dissect every frame, this review is for you. Let’s dive into what made ‘Saiyaara’ a surprising hit and where it might have missed a beat.
What Works
The film truly excels in its portrayal of a doomed romance, a narrative style that consistently appeals to audiences who appreciate emotionally charged stories. Centered on Kish and Vani’s evolving relationship amidst their struggles in the music industry, ‘Saiyaara’ leans into loud emotional expressions rather than subtle nuances, effectively capturing the raw essence of youthful romance. It presents a relatable depiction of young love and friendship dynamics, largely avoiding common clichés.
A notable strength lies in the surprising chemistry between debutants Ahaan Pande (Kish) and Anit Pada (Vaani). Their performances, particularly Anit Pada’s compelling portrayal of Vaani’s emotional depth, impressively exceed typical debut standards. Ahaan Pande also displays considerable promise, despite occasional instances of muffled dialogue. Mohit Suri’s direction effectively complements their raw energy, making them appear more seasoned than first-time actors, and their collective performance is expected to resonate well with the target audience.
Furthermore, the film’s music stands out as its most significant asset. Mohit Suri’s consistent ability to craft compelling soundtracks is evident, with ‘Saiyaara’ featuring an exceptional original score that introduces new voices to Hindi cinema. Tracks like the title song and “Burbad” significantly enhance the film’s emotional tone and have resonated strongly with audiences, indicating the music’s lasting appeal.
Surprisingly, ‘Saiyaara’ also achieved remarkable box office success. Its opening day performance surpassed that of films starring established stars. This unexpected commercial triumph, even with discounted ticket prices, suggests a significant shift in audience preferences and challenges traditional industry assumptions about what draws viewers.
Where It Could Have Been Better
A significant weakness lies in the film’s heavy-handed emotional manipulation. While some emotional resonance is expected in such narratives, the film’s overt attempts to elicit sympathy often feel forced and detract from genuine emotional depth. This approach, seemingly aimed at a mass audience, can be off-putting for cinephiles seeking more authentic portrayals of love and tragedy.
Moreover, the film suffers from excessive predictability. Its narrative progression and dialogue often feel routine and unoriginal. While predictability is not inherently negative, ‘Saiyaara’ lacks the strong writing needed to elevate its familiar plot. Mohit Suri’s directorial style, though consistent, includes dated elements such as caricatured supporting characters, which unfortunately detract from the film’s overall realism. For cinephiles, the film’s predictable nature and these stylistic choices may hinder a deeper emotional engagement.
The Verdict
In conclusion, ‘Saiyaara’ primarily caters to a mass audience, earning a 3.5-star rating for its entertainment value and strong musical score. However, for cinephiles, the film’s dated and repetitive elements limit its appeal, resulting in a 1.5-star rating. This review aims to provide a balanced perspective on the film’s strengths and weaknesses for diverse viewers.
