Kanjoos Makhichoos: A Middle-Class Family Drama with a Twist

Plot

Kanjoos Makhichoos revolves around Jamuna Prasad, a notorious miser in Lucknow, who saves money to fulfill his long-cherished dream of sending his parents on a pilgrimage. However, tragedy strikes when his parents get caught in a fierce downpour while on their way to Kedarnath. As he fights corrupt officials to get justice, Jamuna discovers the real reason behind his extreme parsimony.

Acting

Kunal Kemmu shoulders the film with his impeccable comic timing and an authentic portrayal of a person from Uttar Pradesh. Shweta Tripathi also delivers a stellar performance as a homemaker with slight materialistic needs. The late Raju Srivastava's cameo as a government officer stands out as one of the best things about the film, while Piyush Mishra and Alka Amin light up the screen with every minute of their on-screen presence.

Cinematography

The film is set in Lucknow and beautifully captures the essence of a middle-class family's life. The picturesque scenes of Uttarakhand add to the emotional quotient of the film.

Direction

Director Vipul Mehta tries to deliver a black comedy with a socio-political message, but fails to strike a balance between comedy and drama. The slow pace, repetitive jokes, and the lackluster screenplay let down the talented cast.

Verdict

Kanjoos Makhichoos fails to live up to its potential despite boasting an impressive ensemble cast. While the film is relatable in parts and has its funny moments, it struggles to find the right balance between subtle humour and over-the-top comedy. Though Kunal Kemmu's performance is commendable, the weak script and direction make it a frustrating watch that fails to do justice to the film's talented actors.

Share this review