The Buckingham Murders: Kareena Kapoor shines in her dream role while her performance is stellar, the film’s shallow handling of sensitive themes and slow pacing make it better suited for an OTT release. Let’s breakdown the details of the movie down.
The Buckingham Murders
Rating: ★★ (2/5 Hitflik Stars)
Language: Hindi
Genre: Crime Thriller
Director: Hansal Mehta
Starring: Kareena Kapoor Khan, Keith Allen
Release Date: 13 September
Bebo shines in her “Dream Role”
Kareena Kapoor took to her Instagram to tell her fans how playing this character is a dream come true for her and oh boy does she do justice in bringing the dream to life. She plays the rule with a well-balanced mix of pain, anger, confusion and urgency that the character calls for. Kareena is the only thing that works in this film.
Underexplored Themes, Missed Potential
The movie includes elements that feel unnecessary, particularly the Sikh vs. Muslim angle in the murder. The case of a young Sikh boy’s death, with a Muslim man as the prime suspect, is only superficially explored. Such a sensitive topic demands more depth, but it remains underdeveloped. A scene with Muslims gathering outside a Gurudwara builds tension, yet it leads to nothing—no confrontation or deeper insight—making the moment feel hollow and wasted.
Hyped Collaboration Falls Short
With big names like Hansal Mehta, Kareena Kapoor, and Ekta Kapoor attached, The Buckingham Murders generated significant hype. However, the on-screen execution falls short. Hansal Mehta’s talent for realism and Ekta Kapoor’s flair for drama could have made for a powerful collaboration, but this script simply wasn’t the right fit.
Stunning Visuals Redefined Crime Drama
The Buckingham Murders captivates with its visual storytelling, set against the moody landscapes of the UK. It recreates the atmosphere of classic crime thrillers while adding a unique Indian twist, blending familiar elements with fresh cultural nuances. The film skillfully weaves suspense and mystery, immersing the audience in a gripping, tense world.
An OTT Script
The Buckingham Murders feels designed for OTT, with a simple script and execution that aren’t suited for the grandeur of cinemas. While it lacks big twists or dramatic reveals, the second half picks up with key moments and an unexpected climax. The film is slow at times but ultimately finds strength in its subtlety, making it better suited for home viewing.
Final Thoughts
The Buckingham Murders features a strong performance from Kareena Kapoor but falls short with its superficial handling of sensitive themes and uneven pacing. While it picks up in the second half, the film lacks the depth needed for a memorable theatrical experience. It’s a solid OTT pick, especially for Kareena fans, but unless you’re eager to see her in this role, there’s little to justify watching it on the big screen. Catch it on Netflix when it releases.
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