'Gangubai Kathiawadi' review: Bhansali's magic doesn't enchant you the same way on the small screen

KARACHI:

Bollywood fans in Pakistan have been experiencing FOMO ever since the country banned the screening of Indian films in cinemas. Thankfully, the OTT platforms have offered a sigh of relief. So when it was announced last week that Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Gangubai Kathiawadi was to release on Netflix, many rejoiced.

The film has been a success back in India and the rest of the world where it was screened in cinemas, and that is exactly why a Bhansali film is a truly theatrical experience - a masterpiece not worth being on a digital platform.

Gangubai Kathiawadi stars Alia Bhatt in the titular role of the Mafia Queen. All her dreams of becoming a heroine turn to dust when she’s forced to sex work by her “lover”. But she quickly adapts, like one would expect her to. Based on the book Mafia Queens of Mumbai by Hussain Zaidi, Gangubai Kathiawadi is one of many stories - but an important one to be told.

Bhansali, to no one’s surprise, flaunts his majestic sets telling a story of their own. The ace filmmaker not only humanises Gangubai Kathiawadi but also the taboos associated with the profession for centuries.

Bhatt shines through the film and many are touting it to be the actor's best film. While that may be stretching it a bit too much, her portrayal as Gangubai is clearly at par with her performances in Highway and Raazi. In some scenes, Bhatt proves that she was made for the role. Her one-take during an intense Garba performance is the highlight of the film.

Not to forget, her constant shift in emotion and expressions in sultry track, Meri Jaan. Speaking of Garba, her initial performance of the dance form bore an eerie resemblance to Deepika Padukone’s in Ram Leela. And maybe, that is one aspect that Bhansali needs to tone down on.

Much like Bhatt’s Gangubai, all other characters fit perfectly like pieces of a puzzle. From Vijay Raaz as Raziabai to Jim Sarbh as Journalist Fezi, it seemed like the roles were written with the specific actor in mind. While Ajay Devgn does not have many scenes in the film, his chemistry, and brotherly bond as Rahim Lala with Gangubai is one that was pleasant to watch on screen. But the best thing about Rahim Lala? He didn’t address people with “janab”.

There isn’t much that needs to be said about Gangubai Kathiawadi’s music and cinematography. A Bhansali film is sure to excel in that. Why? Because they are probably the only Bollywood films that you don’t fast forward the songs of.

All in all, Gangubai Kathiawadi is a great watch. Bhatt has yet again proven that she’s here to say - defying all exhausted debates on nepotism. Her talent is unmatched which is the reason why Bhansali has gotten her on board for his next project, Baiju Bawra. This time reuniting her with her Gully Boy co-star, Ranveer Singh - yet another Bhansali favourite.

Bhansali, too, has proved time and again, that he’s a class of his own. From direction to script to music, he’s always fully involved in the complete process. His attention to detail is also what sets him apart from other filmmakers wherein no one can match the magic that he can pull out of his hat.

One major aspect that was missing throughout the film was the signature Gangu pose - the one that the actor did at every promotional event before the film’s release. The film did not seem to feature any moment wherein Bhatt gestured her hands pressed together, facing away from the camera. This may make one wonder why that was a pose picked up during the film’s promotion when it was never included or performed in the film.

Gangubai Kathiawadi is yet another Bhansali classic. You watch it for the grand sets, you watch it for the unfiltered emotions and you watch it for how it makes you feel. However, with the film’s release on Netflix, one thing is for sure - a Bhansali film is not a feat for the OTT. Its true essence can only be felt when you’re slouched on the cinema seat with a gulp stuck in your throat to avoid your eyes from watering up.

Verdict: 3.5/5

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