Hrithik Roshan, Lotus Dust Pictures and Vinraw Films’ Pushtaini (UA) is the story of a man who has not been able to forgive his father for a lapse that cost him dear in his childhood.
Rita Heer and Vinod Rawat have written an unusual story and screenplay. Since the drama does not unfold in a linear fashion, it keeps the audience interest alive as several things are revealed towards the end. However, it must also be added that the drama has very limited appeal. While a thin section of the elite audience would be able to appreciate the proceedings, the others would find it difficult to understand and appreciate them. Since it does not have the usual ingredients of a masala film, masses would not find the drama engaging or entertaining. The duo’s dialogues are natural.
Vinod Rawat acts well as the central character, Bhuppi. Hemant Pandey is natural as taxi driver Hemant. Nitin Goel makes a fine mark as Bhuppi’s blackmailing friend, Sumit. Rita Heer is okay as Dimple. Shashi Bhushan has his moments as Shashi. Rajkumar Rao has a tiny role as Ankur Bhatia but in the very limited screen time, he proves that he is a fantastic actor. Prema Karayat passes muster as Bhuppi’s paternal aunt. Mithilesh Pandey leaves a mark as the boss of Bhuppi’s father. Baljinder Kaur (as the boss’ wife), Maheshwar Dayal Rawat (as Bhuppi’s father), Maya Darakoti (as Bhuppi’s sister), Mahavir Singh Darakoti (as Bhuppi’s brother-in-law) and Sakshi Darakoti (as Bhuppi’s niece) lend the necessary support.
Vinod Rawat’s direction is nice. Although the film has extremely limited appeal, it must be mentioned that Vinod Rawat understands the medium. Krishna Purohit’s background music is fairly good. Dhawalika Singh’s camerawork is alright. Dawood Hussain’s production designing is okay. Editing (by Charu Takkar) is quite sharp.
On the whole, Pushtaini is a well-made film but its commercial prospects are very bleak.
Released on 21-6-’24 at Inox (daily 1 show) and other cinemas of Bombay thru Platoon One Distribution. Publicity & opening: poor. …….Also released all over. Opening was weak everywhere.