In every corner of society, there exist men whose actions starkly contradict their self-proclaimed ideals, using physical dominance and verbal harassment while posing as supporters of women’s rights. These individuals often refuse to take responsibility for their behavior, opting instead to blame victims or trivialize their struggles. Their actions often stem from deep-seated insecurities and dysfunctions that manifest through violence and intimidation.
Netflix’s latest film, Do Patti, introduces viewers to one such character, Dhruv Sood (played by Shaheer Sheikh), a man from a small hill town who routinely inflicts physical harm on his wife, Saumya (Kriti Sanon). The story kicks off with a harrowing incident where the couple faces life-threatening peril due to a failed paragliding attempt. Suspicion mounts as Saumya fears her husband has intentionally sabotaged her harness. Once rescued, she confides in Inspector Vidya Jyothi (Kajol), alleging that Dhruv attempted to kill her, and the narrative transitions to a flashback of their relationship three months earlier.
Saumya is portrayed as a withdrawn individual, grappling with severe depression following the loss of her parents. Living with an alcoholic caretaker, she confronts a multitude of phobias and traumas while navigating a complex relationship with her twin sister, Shailee, who was sent away for her abusive tendencies but returns to complicate Saumya’s personal life.
However, Do Patti encounters significant challenges with its inconsistent plot and uneven tone. While certain scenes resonate powerfully, others feel superfluous and detract from the narrative’s flow. A thriller should efficiently maintain suspense and gradually reveal plot elements, but Do Patti struggles to sustain tension throughout.
A notable misstep involves the development of Kajol’s character, who depicts an idealistic police officer. Her portrayal, infused with a clichéd rendition of a rural accent, falls flat and does not do justice to the complexity of the role. The tendency to reduce her character to a caricature detracts from the film’s credibility.
As the film progresses, it becomes apparent that the writers may have been too enamored with Kajol’s star power, resulting in a lack of substance for her character. “VJ,” as her character is known, often comes off as playful and reminiscent of her romantic comedy days rather than embodying the serious nature of law enforcement. Kajol puts forth her best effort, yet the underdeveloped script hampers her potential impact. Viewers not enamored with her previous roles may find her arc lacking depth.
The film also falters in its depiction of female characters, particularly through the portrayal of Saumya’s sister, Shailee. Characterized as reckless and provocative—drinking, dressing suggestively, and flirting—this portrayal reaffirms outdated stereotypes that unfairly vilify women who deviate from traditional norms. Shailee’s role reduces her to a one-dimensional figure without exploring any redeeming qualities, reinforcing negative perceptions of women who diverge from societal expectations.
Despite its shortcomings, Do Patti effectively sheds light on themes of patriarchy, violence against women, and the lingering effects of childhood trauma. A particularly harrowing scene depicts Dhruv’s brutal assault on Saumya, showcasing the vile nature of domestic violence. This moment is powerful and visceral, eliciting a strong emotional reaction and effectively illustrating the horrific reality of abuse.
Strong performances, particularly from Sanon and Sheikh, elevate the film. Sanon excels in portraying her dual roles, with well-crafted characters that delve into the nuances of human experience. A poignant moment occurs when Saumya confronts her fear of heights while paragliding, triggering a flood of emotions tied to her late mother. This scene encapsulates the film’s exploration of grief and trauma in a compelling manner, marking a standout achievement for Sanon.
Do Patti navigates its examination of childhood trauma, familial rivalry, domestic abuse, and the objectification of women with considerable sensitivity. While the film’s handling of these complex themes is commendable, its pacing issues and reliance on clichéd tropes detract from its overall impact. To resonate with a broader audience, films addressing such vital subjects need to evoke sustained engagement from viewers. Although Do Patti’s intentions are noble, it falls short of establishing itself as a gripping thriller.
Rating: 6.5/10
