Based on the worldwide best-selling novel The Devotion of Suspect X by Keigo Higashino, Jaane Jaan delivers a stellar film adaptation that is true to the original storyline. Although it has been adapted for Indian audiences and the key elements have been transitioned for the local audiences, the final product manages to present a movie consistent with the core elements of the original story.
The movie takes us to the serene hillside town called Kalimpong in north east India where Maya D’Souza is running a cozy café on a busy intersection serving basic food items, coffee and snacks. She is a single mother who migrated to this picturesque town few years ago with her only daughter. Now she and her teenage daughter- Tara share an inseparable bond with each other that goes beyond motherhood expanding almost into friendship. Life is all not rosy and glamorous for Maya but she is sure that her hard work and dedication to build a stable life with her daughter will pay off in the long run.
But Maya has a complicated past and troublesome husband, from whom she has barely escaped along with her daughter. So, she is always cautious, looking over her shoulders and never lets her guard down even for a second. This has created an invisible wall around this mother-daughter duo that is not only shielding them from any harm but also isolating them from their local acquittances. This cautionary aloof attitude is also reflected in the limited and to-the-point exchanges with their immediate neighbor Naren.
A mathematical teacher by profession and recluse by nature, Naren is very much content with his teaching, books and mathematical problems. He also tries to keep his distance from Maya and her daughter, in line with his nature but mostly because he has a secret crush on Maya. Good looking, intelligent, independent and strong woman- Maya has all the characteristics which Naren finds missing in himself. According to him, he is a barely decent looking, hair thinning, mathematical fanatic who lacks severally in personal networking and socializing department.
However, all this changes once Maya’s abusive ex-husband- Ajit, knocks on her door one evening. A sever argument leads to a deadly altercation which might land Maya and Tara in legal trouble. Thankfully, Naren comes to the rescue proving that Maya and Tara have nothing to do with a sudden appearance and disappearance of Ajit. He saves them with the most elaborate, detailed and full-proof plan but voluntarily takes the onus of their crime on his head. His faithful dedication underscores the title of the original book.
However, the adaption and direction lack in certain aspects. It is painfully visible in few scenes and gives a jarring experience with noticeable plot loopholes suspending logical explanations. But thanks to the leading actors carrying this film on their capable shoulders, it doesn’t take away from the entire viewing experience.
More of an indie film than mass market release, this movie presented by and released on Netfilx is all because of its leading actors. Set in a small town with limited changes in scenery and sets, the screenplay comes together like a jigsaw puzzle pieced together on a huge vintage table. The lead actors contribute massively in adding nuances to this complex storyline with their solid acting chops. Be it Kareen Kapoor Khan playing mother of a teenager who shows an entire arc of emotions ranging from fear, worry, protective motherly instincts, hatred towards her abusive partner, reminiscing about her playful youth with some sultry moves, cautious belief in teacher’s plans and finally, the gratitude. Unlike most of her commercial ventures, she is in good company here with an equal if not slightly overpowering actor like Jaideep Ahlawat accompanying her alongside accomplished second lead by Vijay Varma.
Overall, it is a good movie suited for one time watch. Even if you have read the original story, you can very well watch this for the amazing performances by all the leading actors.
Tell me in the comments if you have already watched this movie and what you think of this adaptation.