Khufiya Review: Tabu Delivers Powerhouse Performance in This Slow Thriller
Star Cast: Tabu, Ali Fazal, Wamiqa Gabbi, Azmeri Haque Badhon, Ashish Vidyarthi, Navnindra Behl
Director: Vishal Bhardwaj
You know you're in for a unique cinematic experience when you step into a Vishal Bhardwaj film. "Khufiya" is no exception to this rule, marked by its distinct visual style and poetic dialogues that could have been plucked from the pages of a Gulzar masterpiece. As the narrative unfolds, it becomes evident that Bhardwaj's characters are flawed, emotionally charged individuals, harboring their secrets and desires, all set against the backdrop of a meticulously crafted plot.
The film introduces us to Krishna Mehra, codenamed KM and played masterfully by Tabu. She's an officer with the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW), leading a secretive life that strains her familial bonds. The core of the story revolves around her pursuit of vengeance, one that has the potential to disrupt international relations between three nations. Her mission involves unravelling the mystery of a suspected mole in the lives of Ravi, his wife Charu, and an army man's wife, along with his mother, Lalita. It's a tale of how love intersects with national interests and how KM follows her heart's instincts.
Collaborating with co-writer Rohan Narula, Vishal Bhardwaj brings Amar Bhushan's novel "Escape to Nowhere" to life on the big screen. While the faithfulness to the source material is evident, the film sometimes feels cluttered with details that could have been streamlined. "Khufiya" treads the line between political drama and human emotions, a mix that Bhardwaj has mastered in his previous projects.
The film's engrossing investigation is elevated by Farhad Ahmed Dehlvi's atmospheric cinematography, creating a sense of intrigue in every frame. However, the third act falters, as the narrative convenience begins to undermine the credibility that the film has built. This is unusual for a director of Bhardwaj's calibre, and it's a disappointment.
While Vishal Bhardwaj is known for his excellent portrayal of female characters, "Khufiya" stands out as a prime example of his prowess. Tabu, Wamiqa Gabbi, and Azmeri Haque Badhon deliver powerhouse performances, each showcasing their unique talents. Tabu's portrayal of Krishna Mehra is a testament to her exceptional acting skills, bringing her enigmatic character to life with a 'khufiya' intensity. Wamiqa Gabbi delivers a subtle yet compelling performance that cements her status as one of Bhardwaj's favourite muses. Azmeri Haque Badhon, a Bangladeshi actress, exudes an unmatched ability to create sexual tension in her scenes, leaving a lasting impression.
Ali Fazal, however, has limited opportunities to shine, with an unevenly sketched character that swings between normalcy and mania. Ashish Vidyarthi plays his role predictably, and Navnindra Behl's portrayal of Ravi's mother often borders on unintentional humour.
In conclusion, "Khufiya" is not without its flaws, particularly in its third act and at times excessive adherence to the source material. However, these shortcomings do not prevent the film from immersing you in its enigmatic charm until the very end. If you inclined Vishal Bhardwaj's signature slow-burners, "Khufiya" is a film that should be on your watchlist.
