Some films are eagerly anticipated, and when Anurag Kashyap is involved, the wait is even more intense. His film ‘Nishaanchi’ has been a hot topic since its inception, generating considerable excitement. Although the movie largely fulfills expectations, it does have its shortcomings. Let’s evaluate this film and determine if it’s a must-see.
The narrative centers on twin brothers, W and B, who share an identical appearance yet possess contrasting personalities. W is honest and straightforward, while B is perpetually embroiled in various troubles. The initial portion of the story focuses on understanding these characters and resolving their conflicts. Subsequently, Monika is introduced as their mother, Manjiri, and Kumud Mishra as Ambika Prasad. Ambika is the primary cause of the family’s issues, with involvement even in their father’s passing.
Ambika wields his influence, and B becomes his loyal follower. Their small town is brimming with untold stories and hidden secrets, consistently offering fresh revelations. The entry of Rinku (Vedika Pinto) into their lives upends everything. The key question: will these brothers ever find their way? To discover the answer, one must experience the film in a cinema.
Anurag Kashyap’s directorial style is recognized for its unvarnished authenticity. ‘Nishaanchi’ incorporates profanity, action sequences, and romantic elements, yet something feels missing. The first half progresses at a slower pace, dedicating time to character development. Conversely, the second half presents a shift in atmosphere. The film’s strength lies in its dialogues, which are colloquial and humorous. For example, when B challenges Ambika with the line, ‘Do you want to play Mughal-e-Azam or Hum Aapke Hain Koun…?’ such moments provide substantial amusement. However, the film attempts to incorporate too many narratives simultaneously, which can become overwhelming at times.
Aishwarya Thackeray shines in his debut performance. His portrayal of the dual roles, W and B, is commendable. While B’s aggressive persona may resonate more with viewers, his portrayal of the uncomplicated W proves more impactful. Monika delivers an exceptional performance as a mother figure. Vedika’s role is noteworthy, although her impact is not particularly significant. Accomplished actors like Zeeshan Ayyub and Kumud Mishra leave their mark in supporting roles. Vineet Singh, despite limited screen time, delivers a commendable performance, as always.
The film’s cinematography is exceptional. Each scene is skillfully captured. However, the film’s length feels excessive in certain sections. Vineet Singh’s backstory and specific musical sequences appear drawn out. Enhanced editing could have improved the overall product. The film concludes with a surprise, the specifics of which are best discovered by watching the film.
The film possesses several notable qualities, including its powerful dialogues that repeatedly provoke laughter and contemplation. The actors deliver exceptional performances, and Anurag Kashyap’s distinctive style is undeniably present, setting it apart from other films. Despite these strengths, the film exhibits certain weaknesses. The narrative occasionally falters, potentially leading to moments of disinterest. Certain scenes seem unnecessarily prolonged, and the film appears to strive for excessive complexity, resulting in a somewhat convoluted plot.
Anurag Kashyap’s return to Bollywood is evident in ‘Nishaanchi,’ although some imperfections persist. A sequel is in development, and it is hoped that the team will address these shortcomings. If you appreciate cinema and Anurag Kashyap’s work, this film is worth seeing. It is not ‘Gangs of Wasseypur,’ nor should it be. It is a film that offers a mix of emotions, from laughter to disappointment, but also prompts a sense of ‘Wow!’ We assign this film a rating of 3 stars.