“Kukri: The Untold Story of Serial Killer Javed Iqbal” presents a tale with potential, but unfortunately, its execution falls short, resulting in a disappointing cinematic experience. The film attempts to explore a strong storyline, but it is marred by several glaring flaws that prevent it from reaching its full potential. From the lackluster performance of the female lead actress to the awkward portrayal of rural characters by urban actors, this film struggles to effectively bring its narrative to life.
One of the most glaring issues in “Kukri” is the performance of Ayesha Omar as the female lead actress. It becomes apparent early on that she is unable to deliver her lines convincingly, resulting in a lack of emotional depth and authenticity. Her portrayal feels forced and unnatural, making it difficult for the audience to connect with her character on any meaningful level. It’s truly disheartening to witness such a pivotal role being mishandled, as it significantly detracts from the film’s overall impact.
Another major misstep in the film is the casting and portrayal of Punjabi characters by non Punjabi speaking actors. The attempt to depict the nuances and complexities of dialogue deliveries and character making in the beauty of Punjabi language falls flat due to the lack of authenticity in these performances. The actors seem out of place, unable to fully embody the mannerisms, dialects, and cultural nuances associated with thatcommunity. This dissonance becomes increasingly apparent as the story unfolds, creating a jarring and inauthentic portrayal that undermines the film’s credibility.
Furthermore, the film suffers from inconsistent pacing and storytelling choices. The narrative unfolds in a disjointed manner, lacking a clear structure and failing to establish a cohesive flow. Scenes often feel disconnected and lack the necessary transitions, leaving the audience confused and struggling to follow the story. The amateur blunders with empty tea cup which could’ve been a faking shot instead diving into the cup, the whole film seems to be shot in the vicinity of Karachi while portraying Lahore streets and police. The wall chalking in some scenes could explain clearly how the shots are from the streets of old capital.
In the midst of the disappointing elements in “Kukri,” one shining beacon emerged in the form of Yasir Hussain’s portrayal of the character Javaid Iqbal. Despite the film’s shortcomings, Hussain’s performance stood out as a remarkable highlight. He skillfully brought the character to life with depth, nuance, and a genuine understanding of Javaid’s complexities. Hussain’s convincing portrayal was a breath of fresh air, injecting much-needed authenticity into the film. His command over the character’s emotions and his ability to convey a range of expressions made him a standout amidst the lackluster performances. Despite the film’s overall disappointment, Yasir Hussain’s portrayal of Javaid Iqbal deserves recognition for being the sole bright spot in an otherwise lackluster cinematic endeavor.
While the film’s story holds potential, the overall execution fails to capitalize on its strengths. The cinematography, though occasionally visually striking, lacks consistency and fails to create a cohesive visual language. Moments that should have been visually captivating are overshadowed by weak camerawork and uninspired composition.
In conclusion, “Kukri” is a missed opportunity to bring a compelling story to life. Despite its promising premise, the film suffers from weak performances, particularly from the female lead actress, who struggles to deliver a convincing portrayal. The misjudged casting and portrayal of rural characters by urban actors further hinder the film’s authenticity. it ultimately fails to live up to its potential, leaving viewers longing for a more skillful and authentic execution.