The newly released Netflix film Do Patti, written by Kanika Dhillon, weaves a tale of complex relationships, mystery, and suspense. Known for her mixed-bag storytelling style, Dhillon’s work often intrigues yet leaves room for more. Her previous projects, including Judgemental Hai Kya, Guilty, and Raksha Bandhan, are known for exploring unique narratives that sometimes falter in execution. Do Patti ventures into similar territory as it explores family conflicts, complex sibling dynamics, and a dark marriage mystery, bringing some powerful performances that anchor the film.
Plot Overview: Unraveling the Mystery in Do Patti
In Do Patti, we follow the lives of Soumya and Sheel, twin sisters played by Kriti Sanon, who grew up in the small town of Dvur. While Soumya is seemingly innocent and naive, Sheel harbors a more mischievous, bold nature. The story picks up when Kajol’s character, a newly appointed officer in town, becomes suspicious of the toxic dynamic in Soumya’s marriage with her husband, Drav, portrayed by Shaheer Sheikh. The film dives into the tensions and secrets that lie within Soumya and Drav’s relationship, leaving the audience questioning what truly happened.
A compelling aspect of the plot is the toxic relationship between the sisters. Their deeply rooted issues stem from a troubled upbringing, shaping a dynamic of rivalry, bitterness, and revenge. Do Patti takes us on a journey of how these unhealed wounds affect their lives and others around them. While Dhillon keeps the plotline gripping and suspenseful, there are areas where the film’s progression seems abrupt and could have benefited from smoother transitions.
Performances: Kriti Sanon and Kajol Shine
Kriti Sanon delivers one of her most powerful performances as the contrasting characters of Soumya and Sheel. Her portrayal of the naive Soumya who falls head-over-heels for Drav, as well as the dark, calculating Sheel who disrupts this relationship, showcases her versatility. Sanon’s nuanced acting captures the resentment and tension between the sisters in a way that keeps viewers engrossed. The portrayal of Soumya’s innocence versus Sheel’s scheming nature adds depth to both the character and the film.
Kajol’s character as the determined police officer in Dvur adds another layer to the story. However, despite her otherwise stellar performance, her inconsistent accent detracts from the character’s authenticity, making it feel out of place in certain scenes. Nevertheless, Kajol’s powerful screen presence adds gravitas to the film, and her character’s personal struggles contribute to the film’s emotional complexity.
Thematic Focus and Cinematic Elements
The central theme of sibling rivalry in Do Patti resonates strongly, portraying how bitterness, jealousy, and past resentments can impact relationships profoundly. As the story unfolds, the tension between Soumya and Sheel becomes a central part of the film, with their dynamic impacting the lives around them. Their deeply rooted grudge and the manipulative back-and-forth depict a raw and relatable side of sibling relationships.
However, the film’s execution occasionally falters. The narrative rhythm is interrupted by abrupt editing choices and certain over-the-top character introductions that feel more suited to a theatrical setting than the film’s otherwise intimate thriller ambiance. Notably, a Holi party dance sequence, intended to drive the story forward, instead feels forced, disrupting the film’s tension.
Kanika Dhillon’s Narrative Style: Strong Premise, Flawed Execution
Dhillon’s writing in Do Patti explores intense family and relationship dynamics, making for an engaging watch. Still, the film suffers from a tendency to over-explain its themes, shifting from a thriller to almost a public service announcement in its later half. This shift from subtlety to explicit messaging is where Do Patti loses some of its original allure. Much like her previous works, Dhillon’s choice to overemphasize the film’s message detracts from the suspense, diluting the thriller experience.
This issue intensifies in the second half when the film transitions into a courtroom drama, utilizing a predictable twin trope to add twists to the narrative. While these elements attempt to introduce new layers, they ultimately feel unnecessary, making the storyline feel convoluted. Dhillon’s attempt to tackle multiple issues dilutes the film’s core plot, which initially held promise as an intense, character-driven thriller.
Shaheer Sheikh: A Noteworthy Performance
Shaheer Sheikh’s role as Drav showcases a raw, disturbing side that contributes significantly to the film’s darker tone. His character isn’t the ideal partner, and his actions often lead to unsettling moments within the marriage that drive the plot forward. Sheikh’s portrayal is nuanced, highlighting his ability to transition from television to film seamlessly. Despite the limited exploration of his character, Sheikh’s performance leaves an impact, proving his potential to take on more diverse roles.
Strengths and Weaknesses of Do Patti
Strengths:
- Strong Performances: Kriti Sanon and Kajol deliver compelling portrayals, with Sanon’s dual role standing out as a particular highlight.
- Complex Themes: The film’s exploration of sibling rivalry and dysfunctional relationships adds depth and emotional weight.
- Engaging Premise: The initial thriller aspect is captivating, keeping the viewer invested in the character dynamics and mystery.
Weaknesses:
- Inconsistent Execution: Abrupt editing choices and unnecessary theatrical elements disrupt the film’s flow.
- Over-Explained Themes: The shift from thriller to social message reduces the film’s suspenseful atmosphere.
- Predictable Twists: The twin trope is used excessively, resulting in a less impactful resolution.
Final Thoughts: Worth the Watch?
Doti Patti captivates through its exploration of family conflict, with powerful performances that anchor its complex storyline. While its execution may not reach the heights of other thrillers, the film offers a unique take on sibling relationships and their darker sides. Although the narrative loses some momentum towards the end, fans of character-driven stories with a hint of suspense may find Do Patti an engaging watch.
Should you stream Do Patti? If you appreciate nuanced performances and layered family dynamics, this film offers an intriguing, if somewhat flawed, cinematic experience. It’s a movie that, despite its imperfections, will leave you thinking about the depths of sibling bonds and the lengths to which rivalry can stretch.
