Cast : Sanya Malhotra, Anantvijay Joshi, Vijay Raaz, Rajpal Yadav, Neha Saraf
Producer : Guneet Monga Kapoor, Ektaa R Kapoor, Achin Jain, Shobha Kapoor
Writer : Ashok Mishra, Yashowardhan Mishra
Director : Yashowardhan Mishra
Rating: 3.5/5
To label Kathal as simply a satire would be an understatement. This film masterfully combines sharp satire, crisp political and social commentary, smart comedy and a touch of melodrama. What sets it apart is the balance of these elements, creating a delectable cinematic recipe that may not be overwhelmingly delicious but certainly leaves a lasting impression. While the film is not without its flaws, it triumphs through its simplicity and unwavering conviction.
The central focus of Kathal revolves around the disappearance of two magnificent jackfruits from a politician’s garden in India. Rather than being concerned with the specifics of the crime, the foppish politician becomes fixated on the intricacies of how it happened. He assigns Inspector Basor, fresh off a major criminal bust, to the task of finding these precious fruits before they ripen. However, Basor finds herself amidst a world gone mad, where corrupt elites and clueless detectives send her on a wild goose chase with a skewed objective.
As the case deepens, Basor gradually realizes the potential for grave injustice when her colleague and life companion, Saurabh, attempts to pin the crime on a gardener whose daughter has gone missing. Adding to the complexity is Saurabh’s personal agenda to regain dominance in their relationship, as his family portrays him as emasculated by a woman from a lower caste. Basor is confronted with a choice: adhere to the system’s rules and face a tainted outcome or bend the rules and compromise her own moral compass to achieve results. This decision propels her on a captivating journey that serves as an X-ray of Indian society.
]Director and co-writer Yashowardhan Mishra strikes a globally resonant chord within the local setting of Kathal. The film strikes a chord with anyone who feels that law enforcement’s primary responsibility of safeguarding public safety has been overshadowed by serving the pet fascinations of the political elite. The chance encounters between Basor and her team with the world around them provides moments of great comedy which gradually reveal the darker aspects of human nature. These seemingly silly moments shed light on the profound issues plaguing society. While Kathal occasionally struggles to maintain its tonal balance in the final act, transitioning from comedy to a more conventional police thriller, each twist of fate remains consistently intriguing.
Kathal astutely observes its small-town universe and its interactions with modernity. Mahima, played perfectly (perhaps too perfectly) by Sanya Malhotra, solves the case by perusing CCTV footage and images on WhatsApp. Brijendra Kala portrays a suit-wearing forensic expert, showcasing the pervasive influence of digitization. However, technology and Westernization are also depicted as corrupting influences. The film cleverly highlights the contrast in perception between a missing girl wearing “ripped jeans,” seen as incriminating, and a cop showcasing his daughter’s Western outfit on his phone while searching for an upper-caste groom.
Throughout Kathal, the central preoccupation revolves around the notion that “thieves nowadays have no standards.” Basor responds, highlighting the imperfections within the police force itself, indicating a refusal to draw a false equivalence between law enforcement and criminals. This premise provides an opportunity to explore the nuances in a time where moral relativism and distorted priorities have become prevalent.
Malhotra’s portrayal of Mahima is spot-on, effortlessly transitioning between a sweet-faced and exasperated demeanor. The film, in line with its light-hearted tone, does not present her with significant challenges. Her scenes with Joshi, who plays Saurabh, depict a power dynamic seldom explored in Hindi film couples. Despite Saurabh’s lower-ranking position as a constable, his caste privilege remains unchecked. Mahima confronts him about his mistreatment of the less fortunate, even as she eagerly anticipates his promotion so they can marry. This dynamic creates a vibrant interplay of emotions. Both Malhotra and Joshi bring an undeniable spark to their performances.
Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery is akin to its namesake fruit – subtle, sweet and slightly larger-than-life. While it may feel a bit overstuffed at times, the overall nutritional value of the viewing experience is undeniable. This satirical gem leaves a lasting impression and satisfies the appetite for thought-provoking cinema regardless of one’s country of origin.
In its examination of corruption, societal complexities and the blurred lines between law enforcement and criminals, Kathal strikes a chord that resonates far beyond its local setting. Director Yashowardhan Mishra skillfully captures the essence of a society grappling with moral dilemmas, exposing the flaws and contradictions that permeate its fabric.
The film’s success lies not only in its engaging narrative but also in its astute observations of human nature and the influence of modernization. Through Kathal’s lens, we witness the impact of digitization and technology on a small town, while simultaneously questioning the corrosive effects of Westernization. The interplay between tradition and progress adds depth to the story, elevating it beyond a mere whodunit.
While Kathal’s tonal balance may waver in its final act, veering towards a more conventional police thriller, it never loses its ability to captivate and provoke thought. Mishra’s direction allows the comedic moments to shine while seamlessly integrating darker undertones. It is through these humorous yet poignant instances that the film offers an unfiltered reflection of society where skewed priorities and moral relativism have become the norm.
Kathal’s strength lies in its well-rounded ensemble cast, with Sanya Malhotra delivering a standout performance as Inspector Mahima. Her portrayal effortlessly embodies the character’s multifaceted nature, oscillating between vulnerability and determination. Her chemistry with her co-star, played by Joshi, adds depth to their complex relationship, highlighting the power dynamics and societal expectations that shape their interactions.
As the film progresses, the central mystery of the missing jackfruits serves as a metaphor for the larger issues plaguing society. It becomes evident that Kathal is more than a light-hearted crime caper; it is a social commentary that exposes the fault lines within Indian society, where power, privilege, and justice intersect.
In conclusion, Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery is a thought-provoking and entertaining film that skillfully blends satire, social commentary and comedy. It navigates the complexities of a corrupt system with finesse, providing a nuanced exploration of societal issues. While it may stumble slightly in its tonal balance towards the end, the film’s overall impact is undeniable. Yashowardhan Mishra’s directorial prowess, coupled with the exceptional performances of the cast, especially Sanya Malhotra, make Kathal a must-watch. Its ability to shed light on pertinent social issues while keeping the audience engaged and entertained is a testament to its success. Whether you’re a fan of satirical cinema or simply looking for a captivating film that leaves a lasting impression, Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery is well worth your time.