“Gumraah,” featuring Aditya Roy Kapur, Mrunal Thakur, and Ronit Roy, is a murder mystery that lives up to its enigmatic title. The film opens with a rain-soaked scene, reminiscent of “Ek Villain,” yet it diverges from this initial impression as the story unfolds. Aditya Roy Kapur delivers a dual performance as Arjun Seghal and Sooraj Rana – two contrasting personas united by a murder case. Arjun embodies intensity, while Sooraj exudes calmness, yet a common thread links their fates. The plot intertwines suspense with a love story, familial discord, and sibling conflicts.
While the first half captivates as the evidence unfolds, it occasionally drags, prompting audiences to piece together the puzzle. The story’s essence becomes discernible over time, and despite predicting certain developments, the second half manages to surprise. The narrative gains momentum, adding intrigue to the overall experience.
However, the film has its drawbacks. While the premise holds intrigue on paper, execution falters. Moments of engagement are interspersed with lapses in connection, contributing to an uneven viewing experience. Despite a runtime of 2 hours and 10 minutes, the film occasionally feels overly protracted.
The story revolves around a murder investigation taking an unexpected turn when two lookalikes emerge as prime suspects. Aditya Roy Kapur impressively portrays both sides of his dual characters, showcasing versatility and captivating the audience. Mrunal Thakur, as police investigator Shivani, strives to embody a tough cop persona but occasionally falls short in conviction. Ronit Roy, as ACP Yadav, delivers a commendable performance, exuding authority and presence.
Director Vardhan Ketkar, a former assistant director, helms the film. While striving for a suspenseful ambience, the film occasionally misses the mark. Vardhan introduces commercial elements with party tracks and romantic songs. Although the film features typical action scenes, it offers a refreshing glimpse of Aditya Roy Kapur in a charismatic, massy hero avatar.
In conclusion, “Gumraah” proves to be a watchable venture, engaging audiences intermittently with its unique premise. Aditya Roy Kapur’s dual portrayal and the unusual storyline maintain interest, despite the occasional lapse in execution. While it may not be flawless, “Gumraah” offers an intriguing narrative worth exploring.
Rating: 6/10