Review of Gujarati Movie “Locha Lapsi”
Newzdaddy Review in One Line:
“Locha Lapsi” movie is a refreshing and thrilling take on Gujarati cinema that combines suspense, humour, and standout performances, keeping you engaged till the very end.”
Newzdaddy Ratings: 3.5/ 5
Genre: Comedy, Suspense, Thriller
Lead Star Cast:
Malhar Thakar, Chirag Vora, Vaibhavi Upadhyay, Chetan Dhanani, Chirag Bhatt
Writer: Maulin Parmar
Directed By: Sachin Brahmbhatt
Produced By: Jeegar Chauhan, Malhar Thakar
Music & Background Score: Rahul Munjariya
Cinematography: Himanshu Dubey
Language: Gujarati
Run Time: 1 hour and 51 minutes
Also Read:
Review of Gujarati Movie “Interview”
Review of Gujarati Movie “Frendo”
Critical Analysis of the Gujarati Movie “Locha Lapsi”
Many people have complained about Gujarati movies; I will highlight three or four in front of you today. The first relates to Malhar Thakar. In every movie, he seems to perform the same kind of acting, this is my complaint also. The second complaint is that most of the comedy movies Gujarati movies create centres on weddings. The third complaint is that many times, a well-made good movie has some pointless dragging of the scenes. Though these are only a few grievances, I believe this movie will fix around 70% of them. Although it might not solve every problem, it will most definitely cover many of them.
Your complaints will fade and you will feel somewhat relieved after watching this movie. I’m not claiming this movie is flawless, but it will address many of your complaints.
Sachin Brahmbhatt directed this movie named “Locha Lapsi”, and his work with the intricacy is really outstanding!
The movie runs for 1 hour and 51 minutes without any forced turns or pointless mental games. Whatever the plot needs is evident. You might first feel that a scene is not necessary, but as the narrative goes on you will see its significance. When the narrative takes up and Malhar Thakar’s character begs for a lift and sits in the car, that marks the beginning of the actual story, even if at the start of the movie you would have assumed it to be the same kind of movie with the same kind of performance. You might first feel bored, but once the narrative gets going, it remains on course and hooks you to the very climax.
Regarding the teaser, Malhar Thakar stars Bhaskar, an engineer who must travel to Kutch for business. His car develops a flat tyre on the way, hence he begs a stranger for a lift. We learn as the movie runs on that the car contains a dead body. To add further intrigue, the wife of a police officer also ends up in the same car. The gripping trip we all wish to see is what follows.
One incident in particular jumps out: Malhar Thakar dashes into the police station yelling about a murder. Though you might have seen this in the trailer, the way it is done in the movie will really wow you. The narrative grips you throughout, and once it starts, the movie will keep you interested even if at first you feel uncertain. The conclusion is strong and will cause you to wonder, “Wow!.” The movie offers just the proper dosage of comedy in addition to a perfect mix of suspense and excitement.
Though in a serious part, Chirag Vohra does well and has some humorous lines. As usual, Malhar Thakar shines in comedy, however, he delivers the same monotonous acting. I must mention Chetan Dhanani here. I have always admired Chetan Dhanani in negative roles. He delivers brilliantly with his strong, forceful voice and plays a rather grey character in this movie.
Additionally, surprising some viewers, Malhar Thakar deviates from his typical typecast in this movie. His performance gets more remarkable as the narrative demands, even if at first it seems like his regular output. Though no longer with us, Vaibhavi Upadhyay gives a fantastic performance; Chirag Vohra also performs really well.
The real locales give the movie believability; the photography is excellent. Every 15 to 20 minutes, there is a twist that keeps you interested; the last disclosure surprises you greatly.
Positive Points:
- Fresh Take on Gujarati Cinema: Offering something fresh to the viewers, the movie distinguishes itself from conventional Gujarati comedy films by combining tension, mystery, and humour.
- Malhar Thakar’s Impressive Performance: Breaking away from his typical humorous parts, Malhar Thakar gives a flexible performance that gives the narrative more complexity particularly as the storyline develops.
- Engaging Storyline with Twists: With cleverly timed turns every 15 to 20 minutes, the movie keeps the viewers enthralled and creates suspense and mystery all through the whole length.
- Strong Cinematography and Real Locations: Real settings, especially during the trip to Kutch, which gives the narrative credibility, help to improve the visual attractiveness of the movie.
- Balanced Humor and Suspense: The film is both exciting and suspenseful since it deftly combines light-hearted comic events with great tension.
Negative Points:
- Predictable Beginning: Particularly for those who know Malhar Thakar’s past work, which could lead to early disengagement, the beginning of the movie seems formulaic.
- Slow Pacing at the Start: With a leisurely beginning that can dull viewers before the suspense starts, the movie takes a while to get momentum.
- Underdeveloped Supporting Characters: Some of the parts, including the wife of the police officer, lack background and depth, therefore lessening their influence on the storyline.
- Comedy Distorts Serious Scenes: Sometimes the humorous components seem out of place, releasing the tension during pivotal or difficult scenes, therefore compromising the general mood.
- Clichéd Thriller Tropes: Although the plot is interesting, several of the elements—like the dead corpse in the car—follow typical thriller clichés that might seem unimaginative to more seasoned viewers.
In conclusion
Overall, the movie offers a refreshing change for Gujarati cinema, stepping away from the typical wedding comedies. It’s a must-watch for its suspense, direction, and solid performances.