Baaji

From the trailer film looked promising as the concept was familiar but how lollyowod would portray it made me curious with perfect lead Meera in as Baaji but film got ruined in every possible way from its writing to direction to story telling to its editing everything was just poor. Pathetic choreography which is the case of every Lollywood movie so wont blame them much about it.With everything going against the movie performances by the leads were no different, from Meera to Amna Ilya to Usman Khalid Butt everyone looked un-natural failing miserably to create emotional connection. Mohsin Abbas looked natural but again his character was irrelevant & developed abruptly. Only Nayyar Ejaz as Chand Kamal was convincing his constant old classic songs reference as according to the situation was spot on. As film industry we are already way behind the world and by this type of art work we are not going anywhere

Despite a cringeworthy acting by Meera the plot grips the audience with itself with alot of twists an turns. Nayyer Ejaz,Amna Ilyas,OB ,Mohsin Abbas Haider and Ali Kazmi shine in their roles. A great suspense/drama from our industry hoping for more of these movies.

I was skeptical going into this movie because I did not expect it to be very good. However it kept me interested till the very end, and the storyline and plot were well thought out. The performances (or at least most of them) were very good. I realize that I'm applying a looser set of criteria here, but this movie delivers on many different fronts, like drama, intrigue, humor, and some surprises.

Title: A Disjointed Narrative and Uneven Performances: A Review of Baaji

The series Baaji presents a narrative structure that struggles to maintain coherence, resulting in a viewing experience that feels fragmented and disjointed. While the plot holds promise, its execution leaves much to be desired. Unfortunately, the misalignment of events detracts significantly from the overall impact of the story, making it difficult for the audience to fully engage with the film's progression.

From the onset, it is evident that the screenplay suffers from poor planning and inadequate development. Key events that should logically follow one another often appear out of sequence, leading to confusion and a lack of continuity. This erratic storytelling hampers the audience's ability to connect with the characters and their journeys. At times, it feels as though crucial scenes are either missing or hastily inserted, disrupting the flow and pacing of the film. The narrative's disarray becomes particularly problematic during critical plot points, where the emotional resonance intended by the filmmakers falls flat due to the jarring transitions.

The acting in the series varies significantly across the cast, further contributing to the film's unevenness. While some performances fail to rise above mediocrity, one notable exception is Mithila, whose portrayal stands out amidst the otherwise lackluster ensemble. Mithila's dedication to her role is evident in every scene she inhabits, delivering a performance that is both nuanced and compelling. Her ability to convey complex emotions with subtlety and grace adds depth to her character, making her scenes some of the most memorable in the film.

In contrast, many of the other actors struggle to leave a lasting impression. Their performances often lack the authenticity and energy needed to breathe life into their characters. This disparity in acting quality creates an imbalance that is hard to ignore, with Mithila's excellence inadvertently highlighting the deficiencies of her co-stars. The lack of chemistry between the actors further exacerbates the film's problems, as interactions that should be dynamic and engaging instead come across as flat and uninspired.

One of the most significant shortcomings of this crime based drama is its ending, which can only be described as a convoluted mess. The resolution of the story fails to tie up the myriad loose ends introduced throughout the film, leaving viewers with more questions than answers. Instead of providing a satisfying conclusion, the ending feels rushed and poorly thought out, as if the filmmakers were unsure of how to bring the story to a coherent close. This lack of closure is frustrating, as it undermines any emotional investment the audience may have developed over the course of the film.

The film's technical aspects also leave much to be desired. The cinematography, while competent, lacks innovation and creativity. The visual style of Web series is unremarkable, failing to enhance the story or add any significant aesthetic value. Similarly, the editing is inconsistent, contributing to the film's disjointed feel. Abrupt cuts and awkward transitions are prevalent, further detracting from the overall viewing experience. The soundtrack, while not entirely forgettable, does little to elevate the film, often feeling out of sync with the emotions portrayed on screen.

Despite its flaws, this series is not entirely devoid of merit. There are moments where the film shows glimpses of potential, hinting at a more cohesive and engaging story that could have been. Mithila's performance, in particular, is a highlight that deserves recognition. Her talent shines through the otherwise murky narrative, offering a brief respite from the film's many issues.

In conclusion, it is a film that ultimately falls short of its potential. Its disjointed narrative, uneven performances, and unsatisfactory ending make for a viewing experience that is more frustrating than fulfilling. While Mithila's standout performance provides some redeeming qualities, it is not enough to salvage the film as a whole series serves as a reminder of the importance of cohesive storytelling and strong ensemble acting in creating a truly memorable cinematic experience.

American poet and essayist Christopher James Gilbert once said, "An anomaly has his own ambitions. You can try reasoning with him, but that's like using money to bribe a beast." In definition an anomaly is something which deviates from what is standard, normal or expected. Meera is not less than an anomaly for Pakistani showbiz and mainstream films. Whatever Meera does deviates from what is standard, normal or expected. Again with her new release "Baaji" she has successfully deviated from the expectations of those who are her consistent naysayers. This time she has not faltered and avoided providing an opportunity to them for cracking jokes on her colorful English and shenanigans. From her first scene to last she has given noticeable performance.

Saqib Malik who initially directed Fuzon's video "Khamaj" has brought forth his first all in all Pakistani cinematic product with "Baaji" but it may surprise a few that "Baaji" is not his first directorial venture. Few years back he has provided his services as Second Unit Director to Mira Nair's "The Reluctant Fundamentalist". This may be the reason despite of having a weak story-line, his first Pakistani film feels fresh and same time matured. Wave of revival of Pakistani film industry is all over and new directors are not willing to take risk by casting ghosts from the past but Saqib Malik must be applauded for betting on Meera as main lead. No doubt Saqib Malik has played a gamble and his gamble has paid off well. By all means "Baaji" is well crafted film and nothing seems overdone.

Amna Ilyas as Neha is Ok but two shades of her role does not justify her character archetype. In film she belongs to a lower middle class family of Lahore and works as masseuse. She is naïve, vulnerable and shy but when she comes under Meera as assistant her character takes 360 degree turn and appears to be more confident and dealing her boss Meera's financial and professional matters even clubbing like pro which is confusing. In writing less than required work been done to build relationship between her and Osman Khalid Butt. It is abruptly revealed to the audience that both are in love in penultimate stages of the film.

Osman Khalid Butt as America return film director Rohail Khan does satisfactory job. No doubt he has taken a giant leap from roasting Meera on his YouTube channel to playing as main lead opposite her in a film. Ali Kazmi and Mohsin Abbas Haider have played assigned roles like seasoned actors. But one actor who easily wins more brownie points is Nayyar Ejaz. With his mischievous acting he provides brief lighter moments to audience in such a film environment where director has seemingly restricted every actor going overboard.

Music is soothing especially song "Badlaan" excellently sung by Zeb Bangash, easily one of the best songs of this year. Cinematography is attractive, glitters every scene and editing is hasty which seems like the result of sloppy writing of some brief portions of the script. On the whole, Baaji is bearable addition in the tally of Pakistani films which is Not bad at all and has unexpected ending.