Review: ‘Nadaaniyan’ Fails to Dazzle Even While Bringing Ibrahim Ali Khan’s Undeniable Natural Star Magnetism to the Fore
Even the slightest hints of Ibrahim Ali Khan’s impending arrival into Bollywood was electrifying, and almost everyone awaited in anticipation to watch whether he would be able to live up the Kingsley legacy bestowed on him by his parents, Saif Ali Khan and Amrita Singh. Directed by novice Rajesh Pandey, Nadaaniyan is a Gen-Z coming-of-age drama which is a cocktail of youthful defiance, emotional turbulence, and heaping doses of nostalgia. But does it live up to the expectations? Let’s find out.
Synopsis: Categorization of Nadaaniyan
Nadaaniyan centers around Arya (Ibrahim Ali Khan), a young college student who, like every other student, is busy following his passions and trying to juggle his family’s preconceived notions about him. Upon falling for Anaya (Disha Parmar), a sassy painter with a mind of her own, it becomes evident that their love is a struggle of love, egos, self-doubts, and societal expectations. The film attempts to project the mind boggling challenges encountered by youth today, such as career collisions, love in the modern social media world, and the age old battle between work and aspirations.
Ibrahim Ali Khan: A Star in the Making?
Bollywood fans are waiting for Ibrahim Ali Khan’s debut, which is expected to be in ‘Aakhri Dancer’ alongside his father, Soha Ali Khan. Ibrahim leaves a less positive impression in the longer clips from the family film. His astonishing magnetism and striking resemblance to a young Saif Ali Khan makes him turn heads instantly. He successfully captures the carefree attitude and witty comic timing of a Gen-Z hero. Ibrahim’s skill set still has some gaps given his age, as experienced in the more emotionally charged segments. He faces off with his father on the screen Ronit Roy, and Ibrahim faces a tip of an iceberg showcasing his vulnerability. It was an encounter that had every potential to turn into something splendid.
What’s more, the writing does absolutely nothing to enhance the character. Arya’s role is difficult to comprehend—she shifts, rather painfully, from being a sulky diva to a nondescript teenager without a soul. Ibrahim delivers his finest performances in the lighter scenes with a side-splitting bar fight and a rooftop love scene. When given ridiculous forms of comedy, he proves he is equally ready for the spotlight.
Even with the famous Satish Kaushik in the role of the weird professor supporting the cast, the warmth they bring is good, but does not repair the fast-paced editing. Disha Parmar acts with pure devotion, but the heat between her and Ibrahim is absent.
A Mixed Bag for Music and Visuals
The songs filled with Pankaj Kohli’s catchy vibes are nice but not very impressive, much like the soundtrack. The softer beats of “Dil Ki Tuphaan,” and “Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara”(a modernized classic), both having retro and contemporary vibes, do not have a lasting impression. The stunning portrayal of the capital’s lively colleges and vividly illuminated terraces by the cinematographer, Arvind Singh gives the movie a colorful, youthful charm.
Not Quite a Masterpiece, But Flashes of Brilliance Exist
Nadaaniyan is a classic case of “almost there.” Ibrahim Ali Khan proves he is someone to look out for with his painful debut, but its script is one word, messy. This film is a relatable trip with sparks of humor and warmth for Gen-Zers, but a warning to the elder folk that even star children have to have a strong narrative for them to be able to soar.
Rating: 2.5/5 Stars
Watch For: Soothing moments and Ibrahim’s charming persona.
