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 is filled with elements that feel largely unnecessary, and the Sikh vs. Muslim aspect surrounding the murder is a prime example. The murder of a young Sikh boy, with a Muslim man imprisoned as the prime suspect, is barely explored beyond its superficial implications. Such a complex and sensitive subject demands depth, yet it remains underdeveloped. A scene where a group of Muslims gathers outside a Gurudwara builds tension and anticipation, making you expect a pivotal, dramatic moment. However, it leads to nothing—no explosive confrontation, no deeper insight—leaving the scene feeling hollow and the potential 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
Buckingham Murders delivers on its promise, captivating viewers with its masterful visual storytelling. Filmed in the UK, the movie flawlessly recreates the iconic atmosphere of classic crime thrillers, reminiscent of Hollywood’s best. What sets it apart, however, is its unique Indian twist, blending familiar elements with fresh cultural nuances that elevate the genre to new heights. From moody landscapes to tense, gripping sequences, Buckingham Murders skillfully immerses the audience in a world where suspense and mystery intertwine seamlessly.
An OTT Script
From its intense script to the overall execution, The Buckingham Murders feels tailor-made for an OTT release. While the film has its flaws, it isn’t inherently bad—it’s just not built for the grandeur of cinemas and the pressures of box office success. Lacking big dramatic twists or flashy reveals, the story is simple, and at times, the first half can feel slow and monotonous. However, the second half redeems itself with a series of crucial reveals, building momentum towards an unexpected climax. In the end, it’s a straightforward narrative that finds its strength in subtlety, better suited for a home viewing experience.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, The Buckingham Murders offers a compelling performance from Kareena Kapoor. However, the movie’s superficial handling of sensitive themes and uneven pacing detract from its overall impact. While it builds momentum in the second half with crucial reveals, the film ultimately lacks the depth and cinematic flair needed to make it a memorable theatrical experience. It’s a solid pick for an OTT watch, and we’d suggest keeping an eye out for it when it lands on Netflix. However, unless you’re a Kareena Kapoor fan eager to see her in this role, there isn’t much else that justifies catching it on the big screen.
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