‘Savi’ directed by Abhinay Deo of “Delhi Belly” fame, ventures into the realm of mythological inspiration with a contemporary twist. Set against the backdrop of Liverpool, the film attempts to blend suspense and emotion, drawing from the ancient tale of Savitri and Satyavan. With a mix of style and thrill, ‘Savi’ endeavors to captivate its audience, but does it succeed?
‘Savi’ Story:
Savi tells the tale of Satya (Harshvardhan Rane) and his wife, Savi (Divya Khossla), whose life takes a dark turn when Satya is wrongfully imprisoned. The narrative unfolds in Liverpool, a setting not commonly explored in Hindi cinema, adding a unique flavor to the film. As Savi fights against the odds, she uses her pain, wit, and determination to orchestrate a daring jailbreak, hoping to free her husband from the clutches of injustice. The storyline is steeped in emotions and mystery, drawing heavily from its mythological roots.
Highlights:
Unique Setting: The choice of Liverpool as the film’s backdrop is refreshing, offering a stark contrast to the usual Indian locales. This setting adds a layer of mystique and depth to the storyline.
Divya Khossla’s Performance: While she occasionally overdoes it, Divya Khossla brings a strong emotional core to her role. Her portrayal of Savi’s pain and determination is compelling, making her character’s journey relatable and intense.
Anil Kapoor’s Cameo: Anil Kapoor’s role adds a surprising twist to the narrative. His presence brings an element of fun and intrigue, making even the most mundane scenes more engaging. Kapoor’s ability to elevate any film with his charisma is evident here.
Mythological Connection: The film’s inspiration from the mythological tale of Savitri and Satyavan adds a layer of depth and relevance, bridging the gap between ancient stories and contemporary cinema. This thematic connection enhances the film’s narrative richness.
Shortcomings:
Predictable Plot: Despite its intriguing premise, Savi occasionally falls into predictability. The storyline, while engaging, does not always manage to break free from the clichés associated with the genre.
Overdone Emotions: Divya Khossla’s emotional scenes, though powerful, sometimes border on being overly dramatic. This could detract from the film’s overall impact, making some moments feel less genuine.
Pacing Issues: The film’s pacing is uneven, with certain segments dragging on while others feel rushed. This imbalance affects the overall flow of the story, leading to a disjointed viewing experience.
Underutilised Potential: While the film has a strong foundation, some aspects, like the character development and certain plot points, could have been explored further. This leaves the film feeling slightly underwhelming in parts.
Behind the Scenes:
Director Abhinay Deo, known for his flair for style and thrill, brings his unique touch to ‘Savi’. His choice to set the film in Liverpool is a bold move that pays off visually. The cinematography captures the essence of the city, adding to the film’s atmospheric tension. Ram Sampath’s music and Divyanidhi Sharma’s lyrics complement the narrative, providing an additional layer of emotional depth.
Anil Kapoor’s performance stands out, showcasing his ability to elevate even the most average scenes. His character, shrouded in mystery, adds a crucial element of suspense to the film. The supporting cast, including Harshvardhan Rane, delivers commendable performances, contributing to the overall execution of the storyline.
Final Score:
‘Savi’ is a commendable attempt to blend mythology with a contemporary thriller. It manages to engage with its unique setting, strong performances, especially by Divya Khossla and Anil Kapoor, and its deep-rooted narrative. While it has its flaws, particularly in its predictability and occasional melodrama, the film is worth a watch for its fresh take on an age-old tale. Abhinay Deo’s direction and the film’s thematic depth ensure that Savi leaves a mark, even if it’s not a blockbuster hit. ‘Savi’ is a solid film that, despite its shortcomings, succeeds in delivering a gripping and thought-provoking experience.
Stream ‘Savi ‘now on Netflix and witness a thrilling journey of love and bravery!