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| A still from ‘Do Patti’ | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement |
Do Patti, directed by Shashanka Chaturvedi, attempts to tread the delicate line between a crime thriller and social commentary on domestic abuse, but ultimately struggles to do justice to either. Starring Kriti Sanon and Kajol, this film delves into the dark realities of gender violence and the trauma of those affected by it. However, despite its bold theme and commendable performances, Do Patti often falters in delivering a cohesive, gripping narrative.
Plot Overview
Set in the hauntingly beautiful hills of Uttarakhand, Do Patti follows two sisters—Saumya and Shailee, both portrayed by Kriti Sanon. The siblings, though vastly different in personality, are bonded by a shared traumatic past that has led them to develop unique coping mechanisms. Saumya, the docile sister, contrasts with Shailee’s more flamboyant, audacious personality. Together, they become embroiled in a case of attempted murder alongside Kajol’s character, a resilient police officer, as they confront Dhruv Sood (played by Shaheer Sheikh), the son of a Haryana politician whose privilege and toxic masculinity breed dangerous tendencies.
The story explores complex themes of domestic abuse and patriarchal entitlement, with Dhruv’s character symbolizing the latent aggression fostered in privileged men by entrenched misogynistic attitudes. The two sisters’ painful journey unfolds, exposing Dhruv’s coercive control and aggression toward women, representing a reflection of the disturbing reality many face. However, while the plot is heavy with potential for depth, the film’s storytelling struggles to hold the audience’s attention and emotional investment.
Strengths: Engaging Dialogues and Atmospheric Setting
Kanika Dhillon’s dialogues in Do Patti are among its strengths, offering biting, sharp insights into gender and power dynamics. Her words often bring to light painful truths that add layers to the film’s social message. Additionally, Mart Ratassepp’s cinematography captures Uttarakhand’s mist-laden landscapes beautifully, lending a mystique that complements the thriller genre and offers moments of visual relief amid the story's intensity.
Weaknesses: A Disjointed Narrative and Predictable Storyline
Despite its ambitious theme, Do Patti suffers from inconsistent pacing and an overly complex tone that oscillates between a police procedural and a social message drama. The film’s structure feels disjointed, struggling to provide a seamless experience that would leave the audience with a lasting impact. Moreover, the decision to give Kriti Sanon a double role diminishes suspense, as the twist becomes apparent too soon, detracting from the climactic reveal.
Kriti’s performance is commendable, showcasing her range as she convincingly embodies both the docile and rebellious sides of femininity. However, the character device itself feels forced, seemingly aimed more at displaying her acting prowess than adding value to the narrative. Similarly, Kajol’s portrayal of a tenacious police officer is powerful, though the character’s development is constrained by a script that limits her full potential. Her attempts to embody a tough, streetwise cop are hindered by dialogue that feels unnatural for her, taking away from what could have been a truly standout role.
Final Verdict
Do Patti presents a valiant effort to tackle themes of domestic abuse, societal conditioning, and patriarchy through the lens of a crime thriller. However, the film’s ambitious reach exceeds its grasp. While Kriti Sanon and Kajol bring strong performances, the film’s muddled script and unsteady tone prevent it from resonating as powerfully as intended. The captivating setting and thought-provoking dialogues offer glimpses of potential, but the film ultimately remains a patchwork of genres, struggling to solidify its identity.
In the end, Do Patti delivers a message, but the lack of cohesive storytelling leaves viewers wanting more from this tale of resilience and revenge.