Movie Title: Do Patti
Language: Hindi
Genre: Mystery, Thriller
Director: Shashanka Chaturvedi
Producers: Kriti Sanon, Kanika Dhillon
Actors: Kajol, Kriti Sanon, Shaheer Sheikh
Runtime: Approx. 130 minutes
Rating: 6.4/10
“Do Patti” marks the directorial debut of Shashanka Chaturvedi in the feature film space, backed by an unusual pairing of producers actress Kriti Sanon and writer Kanika Dhillon. The film has generated interest for its unique casting and promises of a gripping mystery. With a strong female-driven narrative and a haunting atmosphere, it attempts to blend crime and psychological tension.
Plot Summary
Set against the misty backdrop of the hills, the story follows a tenacious female cop (Kajol) who is pulled into a mysterious case involving a young, enigmatic woman (Kriti Sanon). As the investigation progresses, layers of betrayal, trauma, and buried truths begin to emerge. The narrative switches timelines and perspectives, slowly unraveling the shared pasts and emotional undercurrents between the lead characters. The plot hinges on secrets and justice, with an overarching theme of redemption.
Direction and Screenplay
Shashanka Chaturvedi brings a distinct visual style to his debut film, creating a moody and immersive environment. However, while the atmosphere is compelling, the screenplay by Kanika Dhillon occasionally falters with pacing. The non-linear storytelling and metaphoric dialogues sometimes weigh down the momentum. That said, Chaturvedi’s direction shows promise, especially in scenes that rely more on silence and expression than on exposition.
Performances
Kajol delivers a mature and intense performance, embodying the role of a weathered officer grappling with her past. Kriti Sanon impresses with a restrained and emotionally layered portrayal, showcasing her growth as a performer. Their chemistry carries the film through its more ambiguous moments. Shaheer Sheikh and supporting actors contribute adequately, though the spotlight firmly remains on the leads.
Technical Aspects
The cinematography captures the misty, almost dreamlike hills with poetic visuals, enhancing the film’s tone. The background score is eerie and effective, though the music sometimes overtakes quieter emotional beats. The editing is bold but occasionally confusing due to its fragmented narrative style. Production design and costume choices are grounded and contribute to the authenticity of the setting.
Strengths
- Powerful lead performances by Kajol and Kriti Sanon
- Visually arresting cinematography
- The strong thematic focus on trauma and female agency
- Unconventional narrative structure
Weaknesses
- Pacing issues slow the mid-section of the film
- Complex storytelling may alienate casual viewers
- Some characters feel underdeveloped
Final Verdict
“Do Patti” is a bold attempt at a female-led mystery thriller that succeeds in atmosphere and performances but stumbles slightly in narrative execution. It stands out for its ambition and strong visuals, even if the storytelling could have been tighter. The film is a notable addition to India’s evolving thriller genre.
Recommended for
Viewers who appreciate slow-burn mysteries, fans of performance-driven narratives, and those looking for women-led storytelling in Indian cinema.