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| Edited By: Sarita A Tanwar |Source: DNA |Updated: Oct 07, 2016, 03:07 PM IST
A love story is a love story. What sets it apart is the director’s distinct touch and his individuality. In Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra’s Mirzya, that’s what one tries hard to look for – the unmistakable stamp of the director. And while that’s amply visible in the visuals, the content desperately needed some more of it. This time around, Mehra brings to life a love story inspired by the legend of Mirza-Sahibaan (which continues in a parallel track within the film too). Munish (Harshvardhan) and Suchitra (Saiyami) are childhood friends who cannot do without each other. An unfortunate circumstance separates them only to bring them together years later. Munish is now known as the horse-trainer Adil while Suchitra is all set to marry the royal prince Karan (Anuj). It’s only a matter of time before love strikes yet again – this time, defying tradition and everyone who stands between them.
Mirzya is a fantastic visual experience – Mehra outdoes himself in terms of the film’s presentation. In fact, the narrative and treatment are so overwhelming that they take precedence over the content. It’s interesting how Mehra uses the vibrant splashes of color, song and dance to take the story forward. There’s no denying that there is a certain element of abstractness in the film’s flow but that’s part of the filmmaker’s vision. The storytelling is random but clearly out of choice – it’s almost like the director deliberately doesn’t want to join the missing pieces to keep the intrigue intact. The film’s lead characters enhance the freshness quotient immensely. Anuj Choudhary is outstanding as the young prince – he adds his characteristic flair to every scene he’s a part of. Saiyami Kher is not your typical heroine but there’s something inherently charming about her. She keeps growing on you as the film progresses. Harshvardhan Kapoor is the scene-stealer of Mirzya with his reticent persona and appeal. He maintains himself within character keeping the intensity intact throughout. Here’s a boy to look forward to.
There’s nothing wrong in focusing on form as long as your content is correct. But that’s where the film falters. Mirzya has parallel stories running through and sadly, both lack the emotional connect. You don’t feel for Mirza-Sahibaan just like Munish and Suchitra’s love fails to evoke any emotion in you. That is why even with a short length, the film feels boring. Gulzar’s screenplay is a huge disappointment and the biggest drawback of the film. Whatever little zing factor the love story has is only thanks to the on-screen chemistry of Harshvardhan and Saiyami.
Mirzya is random, abstract and niche – not particularly everyone’s cup of tea. Watch it for Harshvardhan Kapoor and Saiyami Kher – the most unassuming debutants of 2016.
