A comedy of errors, 14 Phere begins strong with a plotline reminiscent of Priyadarshan film. But as the film progresses, the story becomes quite predictable and jumbled, which appears more like a medley of similar films. Director Devanshu Singh tries to weave in many poignant topics like casteism, honour killing and dowry through this social comedy, which raises the expectation of the viewer. Maybe he could have done justice with it, had the screenplay been tightly put. When they call it a social comedy, viewers expect memorable punchlines, which the movie fails to deliver. Nevertheless, it is a clean family comedy that can be entertaining for all age groups who enjoy a good shaadi film.
Sanjay a theatre enthusiast simpleton from Jahanabad in Bihar falls in love with his college senior Aditi, a bold jatni from Jaipur. Much like fairy tales, they are living and loving a happy life with successful careers. However, the pressure from their conservative families of getting married within their caste keeps hovering like a dark cloud above their heads.
The film rides on the shoulders of the talented Vikrant Massey who tries his best to keep the show running with portrayal of the simple Bihari Rajput, a role that he pulls off with ease. While Kriti's screen presence is stunning, especially in the bridal and ethnic attires, she fails to match up to the skilled acting of Vikrant. Even as she tries hard to portray a bold and fearless Jatni, she is stuck with a poker face expression for most parts. The banter between Jameel and Gauhar as theatre actors, as well as their individual performances are a treat to watch. Their humour is well timed according to the character. Yamini Das as Sarla exudes such mushy warmth as Sanjay's mother that the viewer would want to give her a hug for being sweet to a fault. Some of the most precious moments in the film are between her and Kriti as the mother and daughter-in-law, a moment enhanced by the soulful rendition 'Ram-Sita' sung beautifully by Rekha Bharadwaj.
Overall, the film would certainly appeal to those who love family sagas and shaadi dramas. Due to its simplistic portrayal of characters and clean comedy, it can very well be a weekend family movie time pick. Yet, better writing and some good dialogues could have brought about some noteworthy performances, given the relevance of the theme.
Sanjay a theatre enthusiast simpleton from Jahanabad in Bihar falls in love with his college senior Aditi, a bold jatni from Jaipur. Much like fairy tales, they are living and loving a happy life with successful careers. However, the pressure from their conservative families of getting married within their caste keeps hovering like a dark cloud above their heads.
The film rides on the shoulders of the talented Vikrant Massey who tries his best to keep the show running with portrayal of the simple Bihari Rajput, a role that he pulls off with ease. While Kriti's screen presence is stunning, especially in the bridal and ethnic attires, she fails to match up to the skilled acting of Vikrant. Even as she tries hard to portray a bold and fearless Jatni, she is stuck with a poker face expression for most parts. The banter between Jameel and Gauhar as theatre actors, as well as their individual performances are a treat to watch. Their humour is well timed according to the character. Yamini Das as Sarla exudes such mushy warmth as Sanjay's mother that the viewer would want to give her a hug for being sweet to a fault. Some of the most precious moments in the film are between her and Kriti as the mother and daughter-in-law, a moment enhanced by the soulful rendition 'Ram-Sita' sung beautifully by Rekha Bharadwaj.
Overall, the film would certainly appeal to those who love family sagas and shaadi dramas. Due to its simplistic portrayal of characters and clean comedy, it can very well be a weekend family movie time pick. Yet, better writing and some good dialogues could have brought about some noteworthy performances, given the relevance of the theme.