Kartavya: A Dismal Tale of Duty and Deceit in a Small Town

The anticipation surrounding Saif Ali Khan’s latest film, ‘Kartavya’, has drawn many viewers eager to see the actor in a police role. However, the film, directed by Pulkit, fails to deliver a compelling narrative, presenting a story that feels all too familiar. Set against the backdrop of a North Indian small town, the film echoes themes of heroism against a corrupt system, but ultimately lacks the vibrancy that viewers might hope for.

The plot revolves around Jhamli’s police inspector Pawan, played by Khan, who is assigned to safeguard a journalist investigating allegations of child abuse related to a controversial godman, Anand Shri, portrayed by Saurabh Dwivedi. As the journalist delves into the dark underbelly of the ashram, danger lurks with two hired assassins determined to silence him. One of the killers, Harpal, adds another layer to the narrative as he himself has fallen victim to Anand Shri’s manipulation.

Pawan’s responsibilities extend beyond just aiding the journalist; he is also embroiled in a personal crisis as he searches for his brother Deepak, who has run away with his lower-caste girlfriend. This subplot intensifies the pressure on Pawan, especially as his father, Harihar, played by Zakir Hussain, finds himself caught in a moral dilemma, seemingly more inclined to support a violent mob than protect his family. The film captures the societal tensions of caste and honor, yet fails to engage viewers fully due to its flat execution.

The film’s production quality is noteworthy, with slick cinematography and a solid cast, including Manish Chaudhari as Pawan’s superior, Keshav. Despite these strengths, ‘Kartavya’ feels like a missed opportunity, as it offers little that sets it apart from other films in the genre. The narrative’s predictable trajectory and uninspired character arcs leave viewers yearning for a more nuanced storytelling experience.

In summary, ‘Kartavya’ presents a colorless portrayal of a so-called hero clad in khaki, struggling against both a corrupt establishment and personal demons. While it seeks to tackle significant issues like child exploitation and caste discrimination, the film’s execution falls flat, rendering it just another entry in the long line of police dramas. It ultimately raises the question: Can cinema in India evolve to present more captivating and original stories?

Source: scroll.in