Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery (2023) User Reviews

A Good Political and Social Satire

[tbhuyan56 · 8/10 · 19 May 2023]

A really good social and political satire. It was also quite refreshing to see the traditional roles and power dynamics being reversed as well. Usually in an Indian crime movie it is usually a male protagonist in a position of power while the female characters just play second fiddle or at best a good sidekick; but Kathal reverses this whole power dynamic that is traditionally seen in a mainstream Indian movie.

It also provides a commentary on the caste dynamics that is still a major part of rural India.

Kathal is a silly comedy mystery but at the same time it does provide a biting social commentary.

Bringing social ridicule to life with gentle humor, I wish they made more movies like this.

[iknafilms · 7/10 · 20 May 2023]

Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery, a well cooked social satire, cleverly intertwines the disappearance of two jackfruits with a captivating narrative that reveals broader societal issues. With a perfect balance of humor and a leisurely pace, the film skillfully highlights complex caste dynamics and gender biases without being preachy. While it could have delved deeper into these themes, Kathal beautifully captures the allure of rural life and its simple joys. The cast delivers captivating performances, infused with witty banter, while the police force is portrayed with raw authenticity. Kathal is a good-watch, offering 120 minutes of clean cinematic experience!

Sanya Malhotra is one to watch out for!

[SoumikBanerjee1996 · 7/10 · 21 May 2023]

A commendable satire that not only bravely addresses all of the pertinent issues bedevilling our society, but also takes sly jabs at the authorities, politically affiliated parties, and, specifically, the police administration.

Despite being quite adamant and sincere in its core objective, the film never gives up its quirky demeanour. It kept the humour going until the story reached its conclusion. And trust me when I say that the final chapter of this tale is one heck of a laughter ride.

P. S. Sanya Malhotra is rapidly emerging as the performer with undeniable versatility and range; I just wish she would keep selecting scripts that would push her further and aid in her acting development. She is unquestionably one of the more promising names out there.

I am in awe with "Peepli live" template , bring some more

[Rajit_thebingewatcher · 7/10 · 21 May 2023]

"Kathal" is a satirical comedy that delicately delivers powerful messages, particularly targeting the patriarchal ecosystem and caste-divided Bharat. The story revolves around a lost jackfruit and the police's efforts to solve the crime, highlighting how influential politicians often mock the system. Sanya Malhotra portrays Mahima Basor, a delightful character who is passionate about her job, strong, independent, and tender-hearted, as seen in her romantic moments with a constable from an upper caste. Despite addressing numerous societal issues, the movie maintains a light-hearted tone, which contributes to its overall success. Bijaya Raj and his uncle's Hong breed kathal (jackfruit) serve as the focal point of the story. Rajpal Yadav shines in his role as a journalist, while the other performances are average.

Although the movie follows the template set by "Peepli Live," it fails to deliver the final punch and falls flat during the climax. Overall, the movie is enjoyable, except for the climax, which could have been more impactful.

Jackfruit Mystery

[kiran353 · 7/10 · 12 June 2023]

It's shocking to know that it was the brainchild of a debutant director. Netflix has a unique choice when it comes to which movies need to be promoted. The sudden disappearance of jackfruit from the garden of a local MLA creates a stir in the neighbourhood. The MLA takes the police machinery for a ride and orders the department for enquiry and file an FIR for the disappearance of jackfruit. Rajpal Yadav as a news reporter was very witty and funny in some scenes and Sanya Malhotra as cop had done a good job. It was totally a different topic to make a movie nevertheless, a job well done. There were no songs and at times it was a bit slow. MLA always taking a dig at his son in law was very satirical and would lead the audience to believe that indeed he has stolen the jackfruit but the end scene reveals it all . Its a modern day satire on the entire system as to how a local MLA can use the police machinery for his or her benefits which is also true in today's scenario.

Sanya Shines, story delivers, end fizzles

[abhijitshukla-17392 · 7/10 · 23 May 2023]

Sanya Malhotra has never disappointed - since Dangal but this is finally the movie that does her talent justice. She almost caries the movie singularly on her shoulder - save the fact that the support cast is just as solid and the two veterans Vijay Raz and Rajpal Yadav just claim their stake of admiration.

Rajpal Yadav gives the performance of his lifetime. I have never been impressed by him this much. (That skullcap I could have done without).

Story, screenplay and dialogues have that Coen brother feel of blending absurd, whimsical and wit - with dark.

Last 15 minutes are disappoint anticlimax where too many loose ends get neatly tied in a hurry and almost give a feel of 1970s "parivarik" drama where everything suddenly gets tidied up for a happy ending. An imperfect end would have been a perfect for a story like this - where something was left without a closure.

Sanya - her performance alone is enough though to make me watch the movie again.

An honest attempt at comedy-drama but fails gracefully

[manasnag50 · 6/10 · 27 May 2023]

Kathal is basically taking a dig at India's caste system, government inefficacies, and social misogyny. But its nothing extraordinary.

Always appreciate Sanya Malhotra for trying different characters and experimenting with it. But there was fairly nothing in the script to make her stand out.

Rajpal Yadav's comic relief saved the grace to some extent. Brijendra Kala, Raghubir Yadav all seasoned actors as cast which prolly made an otherwise okayish drama bearable.

Very generic making. It tries to spoon feed you as much as possible.

Between the action scenes at climax, it also tries to make you laugh but falls short.

Kathal is probably a good one time watch for fun or maybe in a flight.

Heavy topic executed light heartedly.

[bhawanajuyal · 10/10 · 20 May 2023]

This movie is so good. It tackles a serious subject with so much ease and laughter. The language, relationship of police with each other and with politicians, whole ambience of this movie was very relatable and felt real. Most of all the comedy and the end scene reminded me of movies like hera pheri or welcome. I commend the writers and director Yashowardhan Mishra and Ashok Mishra for bringing back comedy genre at its finest. I wasn't bored one bit. It handled so many big topics without making you feel heavy yet still nodding your head at the unfortunate reality of our society. Whole cast did an amazing job. I was thoroughly entertained. Congratulations!

Watchable for Sanya Malhotra & a few laughs! [+59%]

[arungeorge13 · 6/10 · 21 May 2023]

The satire in Kathal isn't as biting as it should've been but it's at least making a few strides in the right direction. Everyone except for Sanya's character acts clownish (including the baddies) and that makes the stakes very low. Sanya, however, is a force to reckon with. She not only manages to light up the screen with her presence, but also goes on to show that she can handle mass moments (even if they're low-key) quite well.

The laughs aren't very evenly spread, and most of it comes during the final act which was like watching the climax of a Priyadarshan film - just total chaos, in a fun way. There is also a deliberate attempt to make the interior shots very vibrant and colourful, and the wannabe Wes Anderson vibes are hard to ignore. On the whole, it's still a pretty decent venture on Netflix's part. No complaints.

Passable OTT watch

[Sumeet_Pradhan · 5/10 · 22 May 2023]

Kathal is a satirical social commentry that allusions to social ills like casteism, patriarchy and messed up priorities of administration.

The plot is about theft of two jackfruits from a MLA's bungalow that gets linked to kidnapping of a lower caste girl and how a lady police inspector with her team handles the case.

The plot is well intended and is grounded but issue with the movie is that it is too inconsistent. The initial part of the movie is little too farcical with a loud BGM and some over the top acting by police and reporters, especially in the scene where the police arrives at MLA house. Thankfully, the middle portion gets back on track before the climax "fight" again turning too comical.

Scenes involving Vijay Raaz and the MLA family is perhaps the best thing about the movie. The part about police team led by Sanya Malhotra is somewhat inconsistent with some scenes even reminding of the TV serial FIR. Rajpal Yadav is occasionally too loud while Raghuveer Yadav in his cameo is just about okay.

Overall a decent movie intended for direct to OTT release.

Why Kathal is Underrated?

[contactfilmibatein · 10/10 · 20 May 2023]

Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery is marketed as a typical Comedy movie and I think there should be two sides of marketing this movie, One which should be primary is how due to Political Power the Time and Energy of Police is misused rather Solving other existing problems, and to the critics, this movie is not just an other comedy movie but this "Creative piece of Art" has enlighten great topics like Racial Discrimination of Caste and Gender, and highlighted how Political power should not be misused. Thanks to the team for bringing this movie, and I am unhappy with the marketing team. I rate it 8/10.

Good pass time

[humirox · 6/10 · 7 June 2023]

Sanya played her role perfectly as always. What first seemed like a very random story, made a lot of sense as the movie continued. There were comical scenes to add to the satire of the police system to make it enjoyable to watch, but I kind of wish there was more of a dark closure or events to create that contrast with the "funny" aspects of how these sort of investigations go. This maybe could have been better done if there was more attention to the list of lost young girls. The support cast was also very interesting, with a lot of new faces which was refreshing. Actors being good actors ya know.

Agenda driven

[qtrvrxhgj · 1/10 · 27 May 2023]

Constant unnecessary usage of 'caste' and whatnot. Not recommended. Until these movies keep peddling misinformation and division, there will always be some people who like to think that way. Would rate lower if there was an option.

The movie is okay, but it tries way too hard. Character are cool, but it totally revolves around the very agenda that the makers are trying to peddle. The movie could have been a lot better if it had simple storyline, and worked without propaganda.

I request people to skip over content that peddles such things. The days of demonizing a culture is far gone. Please show the public something new and closer to reality.

A light watch to highlight some basic system issues

[ay2023 · 7/10 · 2 July 2023]

The movie title talks a lot about the movie itself. The movie showcases the basic issues in the administration system even in handling basic cases where appeasement in different departments may be causing a lot of trouble to the people for whom the system is built.

Everyone in the movie did their role perfectly, and different issues such as cast-related differentiation were shown effectively. The movie also shows how prejudiced people are while expressing their opinion when they are just asked just simple questions like "Have you seen her/him" about someone whom they have noticed.

Overall, Kathal is a nice light-hearted movie that you can watch while noticing and linking small references to the issues in our society and administration system.

Kathal, a fruitful watch!

[lakshmikothandaramann · 7/10 · 24 May 2023]

Nothing convoluted, nothing over the top. A simple plot, when executed well, can be quite an entertainer. You know that your next 120 mins will be a breezy watch when the movie opens up with Mahima, an inspector from Moba police station, cleverly honey-traps a criminal and successfully catches him.

Following this, a hogwash case falls on her lap only to challenge her impressive caliber. The Mobo police force is after missing jackfruits at the local MLA's bungalow. The rest of the movie is about how Mahima and her team solve this case.

The movie, set in Mobo village with characters owning their distinct quirkiness, gave me major R. K. Narayanan vibes! Be it Mishra's constant quibbling about his missing car or Anuj, the reporter, craving a career breakthrough. The entire cast played their part fabulously, and nothing was contrived.

The central symbolism is a satire on our political and judiciary systems. The police force is so swamped in hunting the two missing jackfruits that they ignore the pleas of a concerned dad about his missing daughter. The transition from jackfruits to the gardener's missing daughter is hilarious, smooth, and natural.

There is also an awash of references to societal prejudices and primitive norms. All this is done light-heartedly with the proper use of humor, and thanks to the scriptwriters for not making it preachy.

Some of my favorites are - Mahima's constant battle to ensure her boyfriend Sourab is at par with her in title and pay so that Sourab's dad's big ego doesn't get hurt. Or how the village unanimously judges Amiya as a loose-character woman because she dresses fashionably. Kunti constantly battles to strike harmony at home by cooking delicious food for her husband, even when she has had a demanding, long day at work. I am sure this would resonate with many working women grappling with being the best of both worlds, which, to start with, is an unrealistic and ridiculous expectation. Similar to how Sonakshi's character in Dahaad is subjected to discrimination owing to her caste, Sanya's character Mahima also battles caste prejudices.

The movie ends with Mahima courageously voicing her views on how our government fails to prioritize civilian welfare over the whims and fancies of politicians. Another honest attempt to call out how at the end of the day, even an efficient police officer is at the beck and call of influential people!

Have a fruitful experience watching this movie on Netflix!

Kathal: A Jackfruit Mystery (2023) A Decent Political Satire watch!

[roopakpranai · 7/10 · 23 May 2023]

I would waste a life time for Sanya Malhotra, why not 2hours of my life time 😍the kind of schtick she does in the film keeps u hooked up..Many might feel its a cedar to a female centric film to which it is not, its just a template choosen by the Director to deliver a thought process that's happening in our country. Apart from that this off beat Bollywood movie is Definitely watchable and recommended. Expecting even more would be wrong from a viewer's POV.

The Casting is Perfect! Don't expect a laugh roit but definitely doesn't make u uncomfortable.

Harshvir Oberai shot the film Beautifully loved the colors especially the edit and music does go good too on the film.

7/10 Definitely Watchable!

The kathal case

[sameerlodaya · 6/10 · 19 May 2023]

Sameer lodaya

The movie is all about kathal (jackfruit ) case and how the investigation leads to a hidden case

The concept is very clean ,straight and honest which is presented in a simple hilarious way..the best part in the movie is the light & cute humour shown in each frame which gives you light headed laughter ..the movie though having a mindless subject of jackfruit robbery but it still keeps you engaged.

Sania as a lead looked very young as a inspector but played her role extremely well along with rajpal gurpal and others collectively they will make you smile..Vijay was not explored

A light hilarious family movie where you don't have to apply your brain where you just have to enjoy.

Unfairly underrated !

[dgrs-20989 · 9/10 · 25 June 2023]

Kathal is one of the finest light-spirited comedy movie with underlying tones of social message that I've seen in a very long time. Despite dealing with a subgenre that is almost a tightrope-balance between becoming a satirical comedy and a meaningless laughter riot it's heart remains at the right place and never attempts be either. It takes a brilliant attempt at humanising every character quite in a way "Panchayat" does . The boldness that lies in its simplistic story-telling that attempts keeps you hooked to your seat for two hours is itself commendable. "Kathal" is a must-watch for all aspiring screenwriters and cinephiles alike.

Kathal a satirical comedy

[AnoopVarma · 7/10 · 1 June 2023]

Review of Movie Kathal This low budget movie with a brilliant storyline is an effortless exposure through a satirical comedy.

The film depicts social issues but in a very noticeable manner, like gender inequality, cast equation, police atrocities towards the poor, bribery, inter-caste marriages, judging a girl's character just because she is wearing torn jeans, giving priority for stolen jackfruits of a Minister, instead to find a kidnapped girl. The film has done a commendable job of highlighting all these issues without making it preaching.

Yashowardhan Mishra you done a excellent job in highlighting all these social issues.

Some haunting dialogues: "Fati jeans pehanewali ko koi v utha lega".

"Is desh main neech zaat ki larki se zyada kathal dhoondna zaroori hai." "Larki phatti patloon pehan k ghoomay gi to koi manchala otha k le jaye ga... maanay hmari patloon phat jaye to koi bhe otha le hum ko?" Every single actor leave an expression mark and impact about the real life problems of character they played.

A good watch.

Dry, ingenuine comedy.

[imnahidrobin · 2/10 · 20 May 2023]

Netflix Indian-movie viewers yern for genuine script that has solid storyline and realistic even when the themes are exaggerated often over-dramatic. That's what sets Netflix apart from everything else. But not this particular movie. You can hire absolutely fantastic cast with excellent direction but make a poor movie just because the script isn't authentic. It seems as though common sense isn't so common after all. This is one of the reason Netflix viewers love Radhika Aptie's film. She has a knack for picking films that are more factual than nonsense. Viewers hope to see more films that makes sense. Cheers.

Superb film, after a long time

[sagarmishra · 10/10 · 19 May 2023]

Just finished watching this on Netflix, and in summary I could say this is a must watch film.

The film premise may sound simple - solving a case of missing jackfruits, but it is actually a very cleverly and brilliantly written story which touches some of the most critical (and mostly ignored) topics of the Indian society. And it does that in a very simple yet strong and funny way.

The story is written and presented in a very beautiful way. The direction is superb. And the acting, by everyone, is outstanding.

Every moment of the film was enjoyable. If you like good satirical comedy, this would be really worth watching.

A Comic Mystery Tale

[skmenon1993 · 6/10 · 27 May 2023]

Directed by Yashowardhan Mishra starring Sanya Malhotra, Vijay Raaz, Rajpal Yadav, Brijendra Kala, Neha Saraf, Anant V Joshi in lead role Premiered on Netflix.

Vijay Raaz playing as the MLA, from his house 2 exotic breed of jackfruit got stolen and Inspector Mahima played by Sanya Malhotra had been assigned the task. Now how Mahima and her team solves the theft case forms the rest part of the story.

Movie is altogether a fun ride as the case is such unique and funny though. At one time, when Sanya's character displeasure over this case, her senior says that a police officer life at all time is kind of a lion in a circus.

Keeping aside the fun part, writer Ashok Mishra and co- writer Yashowardhan Mishra the director throws light on the casteism but in a scattered way.

Talking of the performances, Sanya Malhotra had beautifully carried her character in such a way the audience could decode the message in the film. Vijay Raaz as MLA had given many laughable moments. Rajpal Yadav in his limited screen presence also performed well.

The 1st half focuses on the main plot whereas the 2nd half focuses on the sub plot which in turn becomes the crucks factor. The end credit was funny.

Overall, a watchable movie on an OTT platform.

Nothing new, Waste of time

[jeffhector-36070 · 1/10 · 22 May 2023]

NON - SPOILER REVIEW - I was expecting it to be something fresh, new and bring some real issues but instead the film is stuck in 1990s. Acting is not that impressive. If this movie had been released in theatres it would have been a big flop due to its many flaws. The film majorly concentrates on poor things which don't help the film to get the stronghold on audiences. Some Actors don't sync with the characters they've played. And everytime you don't need to put the fetch the same content again anf again without any reason. I mean i don't understand why do you have to focus on one or two things WHEN YOU LITERALLY HAVE WHOLE OF A MOVIE CONTAINING OTHER STUFF. This is the reason audience is not liking the same old content give them fresh ideas and not copied from others.

A message for the Politicians in a satirical way

[TheNonSmoker · 6/10 · 11 February 2024]

It's a direct message to the corrupt politicians and how they use the police as their personal guards, waste the time of the public servants and use them to prioritize their insignificant personal matters.

Overall it's a good move with good actors without wasting budget on any popular Bollywood faces, till the ending it felt like a little stretched to meet the timeframe, but it was a time well spent.

The story I'm not going to spoil, it sets in a rural village and how a local MLA there used police force to find out his missing Jack Fruit from his garden, while there is a teenager missing from the village.

Interesting take

[suyashkrishna · 6/10 · 2 June 2023]

The movie begins with a boring comedy but gradually unfolds into something interesting. Yet even the starting lart had a great meaning, which is brought again in the end of how Police have to focus on less important tasks than the actual ones.

It goes smoothly and slowly but there are some subtle messages that are given in the movie that seems a little too much.

For example, everyone raises issue on the kidnapped girl's character, the support is not balanced. It's only the main character who cares. And no one else is a good person.

Another example is that while the movie tries to show that girls or women are strong and intelligent, every boy or man in the movie is shown stupid and weak.

Another example, the movie shows like everyone has caste issues. This is not the new India. Years earlier and especially now, with a more socially aware population, while there maybe people who still uselessly care about these things, many don't.

Directors or writers must balance their views. Else people will keep insulting boys or saying that Hinduism is filled with discrimination, we will still accept in the name of social awareness.