Vishal P Gandhi and Jinesh Ijardar’s film struggles with execution despite a talented cast.
The Marathi comedy titled ‘Aatli Baatmi Futlii’ has recently been released in cinemas, directed by Vishal P Gandhi and Jinesh Ijardar. The film features a cast of seasoned actors, yet it ultimately falls short due to its amateurish execution. The narrative unfolds in Mumbai, centering on an elderly couple portrayed by Mohan Agashe and Rohini Hattangadi. In a rather convoluted plot, Bhaskar, played by Agashe, hires a gangster to murder his wife Savita, played by Hattangadi. However, on the fateful day of the planned murder, a bank robber named Sachin, played by Siddharth Jadhav, unexpectedly bursts into their home while evading the police.
The situation escalates when Sachin discovers not only the couple but also their neighbor, Lalita, played by Pritam Kagne, bound and gagged like a captive. The unfolding chaos raises questions about the true nature of events, but the film’s attempt at building suspense is undermined by a lack of cleverness and humor. Throughout its 114-minute runtime, the screenplay, co-written by Ijardar, Gandhi, Jeevak Muntonde, and Amman Advani, fails to deliver the sharp wit necessary for a successful comedy of errors.
As the story progresses, viewers are exposed to two intertwining plotlines: one focusing on Sachin’s desperate circumstances and the other on the couple’s precarious situation. The film features additional characters, including Treesha Thosar as Sachin’s daughter Meenu, Vijay Nikam as Lalitha’s devoted follower Tiger, and Bharat Ganeshpure as the ineffectual inspector Gore. While some characters bring a degree of levity, such as Ananda Kerkar’s portrayal of the partially paralyzed Patil, who manages to grasp the truth before anyone else, his inability to communicate effectively only adds to the overall frustration of the narrative.
Before the film shifts into serious territory, Sachin’s confusion regarding Bhaskar and Savita’s bizarre actions provides a brief moment of intrigue. Despite the lackluster script, the performances of Mohan Agashe, Rohini Hattangadi, and Siddharth Jadhav stand out, showcasing their professionalism in an otherwise amateurish production. The film’s best twist is revealed towards the end, but by that point, it may be too little, too late to redeem the viewer’s experience.
In summary, ‘Aatli Baatmi Futlii’ attempts to weave an entertaining comedy but ultimately falters due to its execution and reliance on clichés. While the seasoned cast delivers commendable performances, the film’s shortcomings in writing and humor overshadow their efforts, leaving audiences with a sense of missed potential.
