Movie: Aap Jaisa Koi
Rating: 2.75/5
Cast: Madhavan, Fatima Sana Shaikh, Ayesha Raja, Manish Chaudhary, Namit Das, and others
Director: Vivek Soni
Streaming On: Netflix
Vivek Soni tackles some sensitive themes in Aap Jaisa Koi, like finding love later in life, men being vulnerable, modern dating dynamics, and classic chauvinism. The movie’s currently on Netflix, featuring R. Madhavan and Fatima Sana Shaikh as two pros dealing with a shaky, flawed romance.
Story:
Even at 40, Shrirenu Tripathi (Madhavan) hasn’t married and stays like a virgin. Shri, a Sanskrit teacher at a school, can’t wait for the wedding and really wants to find a girlfriend.
He signs up for a dating app called App Jaisa Koi and has a great first phone call with a girl he chats with.
A few days later, Shri gets a marriage proposal and meets Madhu Bose, a woman in her 30s played by Fatima Sana Shaikh. As they begin their new chapter, Shri discovers just before tying the knot that Madhu had been dishonest about an event. What secrets does Madhu have from him? Will they patch things up? Those answers shape the remainder of the story.
Performances:
Madhavan brings a genuine warmth to his character, nailing 42-year-old Shri’s uncertainty with finesse, and he transitions into the character’s chauvinistic side effortlessly.
Fatima Sana Shaikh infuses Madhu with a ton of confidence and energy. As Shri’s sister-in-law, Ayesha Raza stands out with her subtle expressions and a character journey that’s both dramatic and intriguing. Namit Das and Manish Chaudhari really suit the roles.
Analysis:
Vivek Soni’s Aap Jaisa Koi dives into the deep-rooted patriarchy and gender biases we inherit. It kicks off on a positive vibe and keeps the feel-good factor intact until halfway through, then takes an emotional turn in the second half.
The way they build up Shri’s character and the fun atmosphere of his single life really clicks. Shri and Madhu’s love story makes a good impact. However, Madhu choosing Shri felt like an instinctual and instant choice rather than an emotional one.
Aap Jaisa Koi by director Vivek Soni serves up an emotional drama focused on characters while exploring timeless topics like feminism and patriarchy.
It has some standout moments that work great. But the emotional beats could have been established more effectively.
Why Shri behaves hastily about his relationship with Madhu could have been shown better.
Plus, the key episode featuring Shri’s sister-in-law, portrayed by Ayesha Raza, though works as a catalyst for the climax, drops in unexpectedly. It would have been nice if the director showcased her journey a little to back up her choice.
The tension before the climax works out nicely, leaving the film with a happy ending.
Positives:
- Madhavan – Fatima’s Performance
- Thuoght Provoking Dialogues/Scenes
- Climax
Negatives:
- Sudden Change in the Hero’s Character
- Weak handling of Key Scenes/Characters
Aap Jaisa Koi Movie Review and Verdict:
Vivek Soni’s Aap Jaisa Koi is a decent romantic drama with a heartfelt message. Madhavan—Fatima’s performance and heartfelt moments work well for the film, while the miss-and-hit emotions do not land well.