What Is the Story About?
ZEE5’s latest Original film “14 Phere” is a humorous take on the stereotypical caste conflicts of our country, which get more pronounced when parents set out to find a suitable match for their children. It’s common knowledge that caste plays a significant role in wedding matters in India. The lead protagonists of 14 Phere, Sanjay (Vikrant Massey) and Aditi (Kriti Kharbanda) face the same thing—Sanjay is a Rajput from Bihar, while Aditi is a Jat from Jaipur. And if their parents have their way, never the twain shall meet! The two hit upon a novel way to circumvent the problem; and that is what constitutes the fun element of 14 Phere.
14 Phere is written by Manoj Kalwani, and directed by Devanshu Singh.
Performances?
Vikrant Massey soars in confidence, screen presence and perfection in performance with each new outing. He renders a near-flawless performance as Sanjay in 14 Phere, keeping the viewer’s attention glued on him. Kriti Kharbanda is good as Aditi, but pales in comparison to Vikrant Massey, both in screen presence as well as acting skills.
The ensemble cast is the real deal in 14 Phere, effortlessly stealing the show from the primary protagonists. Vineet Kumar is outstanding as Sanjay’s conservative father, who still believes in the regressive practice of honour killings. Yamini Das is equally good as his docile wife. Indian cinema seems to have found its quintessential mother character in this very versatile actress, a void left unfulfilled by the passing of Reema Lagoo.
Sumit Suri is cute and funny as Aditi’s overbearing brother, Vivek. Jameel Khan gives another powerhouse performance as old-school actor, Amay. Priyanshu Singh is hilarious as Sanjay’s cousin Chhotu. His Bihari dialect is especially delightful to hear.
And finally, we have a scene-stealing Gauahar Khan as Zubina, easily the classiest act of 14 Phere. Gauahar Khan renders a restrained yet riotous portrayal of the free-spirited theatre artist Zubina, a role that could so easily have become loud and screechy in the hands of a lesser artist. The scene when she calls herself the “Meryl Streep of Delhi” is adorable.
Analysis
14 Phere is a film that, thankfully, doesn’t take itself—or the hefty topics it touches upon—too seriously. Caste conflicts, intercaste marriages, honour killings, the abominable dowry practice, the trigger-happy ways of the rich, powerful, unruly class amongst us—14 Phere skims the surface of each of these heavyweight issues, albeit in a lighthearted manner. It milks all of the above for laughter at different points in the narrative.
And in doing so, compels us to ponder over them without ever being preachy, self-righteous or—most irritating—holier-than-thou, unlike similar slice-of-life films that have a social message tagging along surreptitiously amidst the humour (if you think we’re alluding to Akshay Kumar and Ayushmann Khurrana’s recent films, we assure you, the thought never crossed our mind!).
The premise of the film, or more specifically, the plan that Sanjay and Aditi hit upon is a straight lift from Hrishikesh Mukherjee, Amol Palekar and Utpal Dutt’s seminal 1979 film, “Gol Maal”. But writer Manoj Kalwani and director Devanshu Singh pull it off really well in 14 Phere. Also, just like the 1979 flick, the humour in 14 Phere is subtle and sophisticated as against slapstick.
The dialogues tries to enhance the humour a bit. Also, the storytelling ensures that the plot never gets too tedious or long-drawn at any point in the narrative. Everything happens at a brisk pace, without too much exposition, inessential explanation or stretched-out sequences. The two meet, fall in love, move in together, and finally, undertake that outrageous plan and planning —everything happens quickly and seamlessly.
At no point in the film is there a dip in tempo or pace, which helps to keep the viewer engaged and entertained. Of course, one may label the story as being too simplistic, but therein lies the whole point of the exercise. Just like Chintu Ka Birthday, the director’s previous endeavor, 14 Phere whips up a narrative that is easy to digest.
To sum it up, 14 Phere has a very predictable plot, which may be off-putting for some. But if you don’t mind the routine comedy & a cliched premise, the film might work for you as a passable watch.
Music and Other Departments?
14 Phere boasts music that is easy on the ears. The songs are merry, upbeat and eminently listenable. The one slow song in the film – the “Ram Sita” number – is a pleasure to listen to. Raajeev Bhalla has done a fine job with the music of 14 Phere. The Ram Sita number is by Jam 8 though.
Manan Sagar has worked magic with the editing in 14 Phere, the primary reason why the film’s narrative is as crisp as it is. Riju Das’ camerawork is fantastic. Several shots are breathtaking – watch out for the aerial shot of Jaipur, with its undulating slopes and tiny houses in the distance.
Highlights?
Decent Performances
Impressive ensemble cast
Technical finesse
Drawbacks?
Predictable plot
Routine comedy
Did I Enjoy It?
Yes, in parts
Will You Recommend It?
Yes, with reservations
14 Phere Movie Review by Binged Bureau
We’re hiring!
We are hiring two full-time junior to mid-level writers with the option to work remotely. You need to work a 5-hour shift and be available to write. Interested candidates should email their sample articles to [email protected]. Applications without a sample article will not be considered.
