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A Thursday Movie Review: “A Thursday,” directed by Behzad Khambata and starring Yami Gautam, Atul Kulkarni, Neha Dhupia, Dimple Kapadia, and Karanvir Sharma, is a thriller that plunges the audience into a gripping narrative right from the start. This film attempts to blend suspense with social commentary, using its thriller structure to deliver a strong message, which reverberates through the actions of its central character. Though the movie treads familiar territory for those acquainted with hostage dramas, Khambata’s treatment of the subject keeps it engaging and impactful.
The story revolves around Naina Jaiswal (Yami Gautam), a preschool teacher, who one day takes 16 young children hostage in her school. What appears to be a sudden, irrational act gradually unfolds into a calculated mission, as Naina’s demands grow bolder. The film, though at first framed as a simple hostage situation, quickly transforms into something far more complex. Naina’s motivations are not immediately clear, and the film excels in revealing her deeper purpose layer by layer.
A Thursday Movie Review
A Thursday Movie Review: Yami Gautam’s portrayal of Naina is undoubtedly the highlight of the film. Known for her ability to play nuanced roles, Gautam brings an intensity and unpredictability to her character that elevates the movie. The script provides her with moments where her character’s vulnerability and strength come into stark contrast, and Gautam navigates these shifts with ease. Her eyes communicate fear, desperation, and resolve, sometimes all at once, and this performance marks one of the most compelling of her career to date.
Atul Kulkarni, playing the role of a negotiator officer, does a commendable job. His character, ACP Javed Khan, is tasked with the unenviable job of trying to control the volatile situation. Kulkarni brings his signature calm demeanor to the role, effectively conveying the internal tension of a man walking the fine line between saving lives and managing an increasingly unmanageable situation. His chemistry with Yami Gautam in their scenes together is palpable; the back-and-forth exchanges between the two actors provide some of the film’s most intense moments.
A Thursday Movie Review: Neha Dhupia, as Catherine Alvarez, a pregnant police officer overseeing the situation, adds another layer of tension to the film. Her character’s physical vulnerability is used to amplify the stakes, though the script does not give her enough to do beyond her initial setup. Dhupia, however, makes the most of what she is given, and her presence in the film serves as an emotional anchor in the narrative.
Dimple Kapadia, playing the Prime Minister of India, brings gravitas to her role. Her character’s involvement in the situation takes the narrative to a national level, and while Kapadia does not have much screen time, she makes a lasting impression in her scenes. Her calm authority contrasts well with the escalating chaos of the hostage crisis, and the movie benefits from her seasoned performance. Karanvir Sharma, who plays Rohit Mirchandani, Naina’s fiancé, has a relatively small role, but he adds to the emotional complexity of the film, especially in the scenes where the stakes feel most personal for Naina.
A Thursday Movie Review
A Thursday Movie Review: The direction by Behzad Khambata is taut, with a clear focus on building tension. From the moment Naina takes the children hostage, the film does not let up, constantly raising the stakes. The cinematography by Anuj Rakesh Dhawan complements the film’s tone, capturing both the claustrophobic interiors of the school and the expansive cityscape outside, reflecting the duality of Naina’s isolated struggle and the larger, societal implications of her actions. The pacing, for the most part, remains tight, although there are moments in the second half where the film tends to lag, as it tries to balance the personal drama with the larger social commentary.
The screenplay, written by Ashley Lobo and Behzad Khambata, deserves credit for its ability to keep the audience guessing. The gradual reveal of Naina’s true intentions is handled well, and while certain aspects of the plot might feel predictable, the emotional weight behind the film’s climax ensures that it lands its message with impact. However, the dialogue at times feels a bit overwrought, particularly in the more melodramatic moments. Some of the exchanges between characters, especially in the latter half, could have been trimmed to maintain the tension more effectively.
One of the film’s strengths lies in its commentary on issues of justice, particularly in relation to women in India. Without giving too much away, “A Thursday” attempts to tackle themes that are deeply relevant to contemporary society. While the film is primarily a thriller, it is also a social drama that asks important questions about the treatment of women and the justice system. The message is delivered with enough subtlety to avoid being preachy, though at times, the film veers dangerously close to sentimentality.
A Thursday Movie Review: The background score by Roshan Dalal and Kaizad Gherda enhances the mood of the film without overpowering the narrative. It complements the suspenseful atmosphere, ensuring that the tension is maintained throughout. The editing by Hemanti Sarkar is sharp, and the film’s runtime is just right for the story it aims to tell, though the third act could have benefited from a slightly tighter approach.
In conclusion, “A Thursday” is an intense, well-acted thriller that succeeds not only in keeping the audience on edge but also in delivering a poignant message about justice and societal indifference. Yami Gautam’s stellar performance is the driving force of the film, supported ably by a solid ensemble cast. While the film is not without its flaws, particularly in its handling of some secondary characters and pacing issues, it remains a compelling watch for those who enjoy thrillers with a social conscience. Behzad Khambata manages to craft a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, making “A Thursday” a memorable addition to the genre.
Director: Behzad Khambata
Story by: Ashley Michael Lobo; Behzad Khambata
Cinematography: Anuj Rakesh Dhawan; Siddharth Vasani
Dialogue by: Vijay Maurya
Music by: Rooshin Dalal; Kaizad Gherda
