Netflix’s latest thriller, Do Patti, has garnered attention with its intense portrayal of domestic violence and trauma. TThis review will explore how Netflix’s Do Patti represents trauma, patriarchy, and childhood struggles. Despite an all-star cast and powerful performances from Kajol and Kriti Sanon, Do Patti struggles with pacing and some outdated stereotypes.
Netflix’s Do Patti takes on the gritty themes of domestic violence, childhood trauma, and patriarchy, aiming to deliver a sensitive portrayal of real-world issues. With a powerhouse cast including Kajol, Kriti Sanon, and Shaheer Sheikh, this film shows both the horrors of abusive relationships and the lasting impacts of trauma. While the cast’s performances shine, Do Patti stumbles in pacing and execution, which holds it back from being a fully immersive thriller. In this review, we delve into the film’s plot, key themes, performances, and overall impact.
Do Patti’s Approach to Domestic Violence and Trauma
Do Patti begins with a disturbing scene as Saumya (Kriti Sanon) hangs on a glider, begging her abusive husband Dhruv (Shaheer Sheikh) to save her, fearing he may have tampered with her harness. This suspicion spirals into a chilling recount of their relationship, one laced with violence, emotional manipulation, and Saumya’s fight for survival. She recounts her story to Vidya Jyothi, or “VJ” (Kajol), an eccentric cop. Flashbacks reveal how the couple met and how Dhruv’s abusive behavior developed.
While Do Patti dives deeply into the themes of domestic abuse, childhood trauma, and how such experiences shape relationships, it sometimes feels directionless. The film’s scenes fluctuate in tone and intensity, making it hard to keep viewers constantly engaged.
Character Analysis and Performances
Kajol’s role as inspector Vidya Jyothi marks her debut as a cop. While Kajol is a versatile actor capable of handling a wide range of roles, her character as a cop has flaws. Her accent feels forced, caught between regional dialects, and detracts from the serious nature of her role. The script leans heavily on Kajol’s natural charisma but leaves her character underdeveloped, creating an odd mix of seriousness and comic relief that doesn’t quite fit.
Kriti Sanon, on the other hand, brings an emotional depth to Saumya, brilliantly portraying a woman suffering from her past traumas and forced to deal with an abusive relationship. Sanon’s portrayal of Saumya’s twin sister, Shailee, further displays her versatility. Shailee is the polar opposite of Saumya, an outgoing woman who defies traditional norms in ways that unfortunately feel more stereotypical than nuanced. This characterization is emblematic of the film’s tendency to rely on outdated tropes, like depicting Shailee’s drinking and “loose” behavior as indications of a flawed character.
Shaheer Sheikh’s portrayal of Dhruv embodies the complexity and volatility of a man who uses physical and emotional abuse to assert control. His character is raw and convincing, adding layers to the story’s representation of abusive relationships. Sheikh’s performance, especially in scenes depicting Dhruv’s violent outbursts, is powerful enough to evoke genuine anger and discomfort among viewers. While challenging to watch, these moments highlight the brutal reality of abuse and effectively convey the psychological terror victims endure.
The Struggles of Balancing Social Commentary and Storytelling
Do Patti ambitiously attempts to tackle heavy themes such as domestic violence, childhood trauma, and patriarchy, using them to expose the deep-seated impact of such experiences on individuals. The film explores how abusive relationships extend beyond physical harm to inflict long-lasting psychological wounds.
However, these themes are not seamlessly interwoven into the storyline. A thriller should keep viewers on the edge of their seats, but Do Patti loses its grip on its pacing, often feeling like a mix of intense scenes interspersed with filler content that doesn’t advance the plot. This inconsistent pacing detracts from the film’s intended suspense and reduces its overall impact.
The portrayal of Sanon’s character Shailee could also have been executed with more sensitivity. The film’s use of outdated stereotypes to define her “rebellious” nature reflects the persisting societal stigma around independent women. This lack of nuance limits the character and reinforces clichés rather than challenging them.
A Visual and Emotional Rollercoaster
The film’s cinematography captures the stark beauty of the hill town where the story unfolds, juxtaposing the peaceful scenery with the dark themes of the plot. This contrast adds a layer of visual storytelling that enhances the overall mood of the film. The close-up shots during moments of high tension emphasize the intensity of the actors’ performances, making each emotion palpable.
One of the film’s most memorable scenes is a brutally realistic depiction of domestic violence. Dhruv’s physical abuse towards Saumya is raw and unflinching, shedding light on the harsh realities of domestic abuse. While difficult to watch, this sequence serves as a powerful commentary on the horrors faced by victims, allowing the film to approach this sensitive subject with the gravity it deserves.
Final Thoughts on Do Patti
In tackling complex themes like domestic abuse and trauma, Do Patti sets out with good intentions. The film benefits from stellar performances, especially from Kriti Sanon, whose dual roles are convincingly portrayed. However, the lack of consistent pacing, reliance on stereotypes, and occasional tonal inconsistencies prevent the film from reaching its full potential as a thriller.
Despite these shortcomings, Do Patti manages to shine a light on pressing social issues, making it a significant contribution to conversations around patriarchy and the impact of trauma. While it may not be the most polished thriller, the film succeeds in sparking thought-provoking discussions, encouraging viewers to look deeper into the issues it portrays.
Do Patti is a commendable yet flawed attempt at addressing sensitive issues. The film resonates with those who appreciate character-driven stories that delve into the psychological and emotional ramifications of abuse. However, those seeking a tightly paced thriller may find its slow-moving plot and unpolished execution less satisfying.
