"Param Sundari" is a Hindi romantic comedy starring Sidharth Malhotra and Janhvi Kapoor. The film's reviews from both critics and audiences have been mixed, with some praising its feel-good nature and lead pair's chemistry, while others criticize its predictable plot, stereotypical portrayal of South Indian culture, and lack of emotional depth.
Here's a breakdown of the key points from the reviews:
What Works (According to Positive Reviews):
* Chemistry of the Leads: The on-screen chemistry between Sidharth Malhotra and Janhvi Kapoor is a major highlight for many viewers. Their pairing is described as fresh, effortless, and charming, which anchors the film.
* Feel-Good Vibe: The movie is considered a breezy, light-hearted entertainer, perfect for a casual watch. It is lauded for being a "fun rollercoaster ride of comedy and laughter."
* Music and Visuals: The soundtrack, particularly songs like "Pardesiya," has been well-received and is noted for adding to the film's appeal. The cinematography, showcasing the beautiful backdrops of Kerala, is also appreciated.
* Janhvi Kapoor's Performance: Many viewers and some critics have praised Janhvi Kapoor's portrayal of the Malayali girl, calling it a confident and emotionally rich performance.
What Doesn't Work (According to Negative Reviews):
* Predictable and Cliched Plot: The story is criticized for being generic and lacking originality. The plot is deemed predictable, and the second half is often cited as stretched and underwhelming.
* Stereotypical Portrayal of Culture: A significant point of contention is the film's reliance on outdated stereotypes of South Indian and specifically Malayali culture. Critics and some audience members have found the portrayal insulting and inauthentic, particularly concerning the language and character mannerisms.
* Lack of Emotional Depth: Despite being a rom-com, the film is said to lack genuine emotional weight. Key dramatic moments, particularly the lead character's emotional journey, are resolved too quickly, which lessens their impact.
* Uneven Performances: While Janhvi Kapoor is generally praised, some critics find Sidharth Malhotra's performance to be "one-note" or "meh." The humor is also described as not always landing.
Overall Consensus:
"Param Sundari" is a film that relies heavily on the star power and chemistry of its lead actors. It is seen as a simple, family-friendly rom-com that works as a light, one-time watch for those with moderate expectations. However, it fails to deliver the magic of classic Bollywood rom-coms and is criticized for its weak script, predictable storyline, and stereotypical representation of culture.
