Throughout society, it’s not uncommon to encounter individuals who outwardly embrace progressive ideals yet engage in troubling behavior. These men paradoxically claim to respect women while exhibiting patterns of dominance and abuse, often shifting the blame onto their victims. Such characters serve as a reflection of deeper societal issues pertaining to masculinity and power.
The latest release from Netflix, titled Do Patti, introduces viewers to one such character, Dhruv Sood, played by Shaheer Sheikh, who resides in a quiet hill town. The film opens with a gripping sequence where a paragliding incident places Dhruv and his wife, Saumya (Kriti Sanon), in a life-threatening situation. Saumya, convinced that her husband has tampered with her harness, pleads for her life during their perilous descent. Following their rescue, Saumya accuses Dhruv of attempted murder, prompting a flashback that reveals the beginnings of their troubled relationship three months prior.
Saumya is portrayed as an anxious introvert grappling with profound depression stemming from her parents’ deaths. Now under the care of an alcoholic guardian, she battles various phobias and traumas. Her relationship with her twin sister, Shailee, is equally fraught, as Shailee was sent to a hostel due to her volatile behavior and returns just in time to complicate Saumya’s romantic life.
A notable drawback of Do Patti is its inconsistent narrative and uneven tone. While some intense scenes leave a significant impact, others feel extraneous and fail to enhance the storyline. A compelling thriller should maintain an enthralling rhythm and build suspense effectively, yet Do Patti struggles to keep its audience fully engaged throughout.
The film also dedicates considerable time to developing the character of Inspector Vidya Jyothi, played by Kajol. However, the depiction leans on clichéd interpretations of regional accents without authenticity, diluting the character’s credibility. It seems that the writers overly relied on Kajol’s star power to carry the role, yet the character lacks the depth required for a compelling narrative. Vidya Jyothi often feels more reminiscent of Kajol’s past romantic comedy roles rather than a serious law enforcement officer. Although Kajol brings her signature charm to the role, there remains a sense of missed potential given the talent available.
Another area where the film falters is its portrayal of female characters, which veers into stereotypical and outdated representations. Shailee is depicted as a reckless individual who drinks, dresses provocatively, and seeks attention from men, reinforcing harmful clichés about women. This one-dimensional characterization detracts from the narrative’s potential complexity, painting her as a villain merely because she deviates from traditional norms.
Despite these shortcomings, the film does make a notable effort to depict the realities of patriarchy, domestic abuse, and the long-lasting effects of childhood trauma. A particularly harrowing scene illustrates the severity of Dhruv’s violence against Saumya, showcasing a shocking degree of brutality that highlights the psychological underpinnings of such abusive behaviors. This scene is both disturbing and compelling, effectively communicating the horrors of domestic violence while provoking empathy for victims.
The performances in Do Patti, particularly those of Sanon and Sheikh, stand out. Kriti Sanon delivers a remarkable dual performance, convincingly embodying two distinct characters. A poignant moment occurs when Saumya, despite her acrophobia, attempts paragliding, overwhelmed by memories of her mother. This reveals the deep wells of grief that shape her psyche, showcasing the film’s ability to capture the nuances of human emotion. Sanon’s portrayal in this Netflix original marks one of her best performances to date.
Ultimately, Do Patti navigates complex themes such as childhood trauma, domestic violence, and sibling dynamics with commendable depth. It delves into the intricate details surrounding these issues, supported by strong performances. However, the film’s impact is diminished by pacing and reliance on harmful stereotypes, which undermine its storytelling. While it approaches significant topics with sincere intent, it ultimately struggles to present a cohesive and engaging thriller that would resonate with a broader audience.
Rating: 6.5/10
