Movie Review - Saak: This one lies on a shaky ground

Gurnaaz Kaur

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Set against the backdrop of old Punjab, Saak revolves around the story of a soldier, Karam Singh (Jobanpreet Singh) who falls in love with a girl, Chann Kaur (Mandy Takhar), from another village and makes all the efforts to turn it into a marriage. Although the girl is ready, what stands against this boy is the fact that he is in the Army. Chann Kaur’s father forbids her to marry a member of the military. Why he detests the idea, you’ll have to keep guessing till the end. And, this big deal—which forms the whole story—is no big deal by then. The climax is the most predictable and least exciting.

While this is the basic outline of the story, what stands out about the movie is its depiction of vintage Punjabi culture. The village life, simple people, their nuances and etiquette of that time, the plain clothes, mud houses, rituals and ceremonies—it can be a delight for someone who wants a peek into the old-world charm. But when it comes to the plot, it is a drag. If it being slow isn’t enough, the dialogues and acting too are not up to the mark (considering it has actors with enough experience). It’s Jobanpreet’s portrayal as a soldier and lover that is worth appreciation.

In fact, it would be fair to say that he carries the film on his shoulders. Saak being his first as a lead, he shows he can act and act well at that. Together, Mandy and Jobanpreet fail to sizzle. Sadly, this is not Mandy’s best of work. We’ve seen her giving life to characters. Mukul Dev’s role as Karam Singh’s best friend is supposed to be funny or over exaggerated, one may keep wondering. The character actors, playing parents and relatives, do their bit sincerely and are relatable. They are, to say the least, the strong pillars of the structure. Among them, Dilawar Sidhu’s performance is noticeable for his acting prowess. 

Saak could have been a better film if it wasn’t so stretched and if its actors were utilised well.

Watch it if you want to reminisce the heritage of Punjab or if are keen to know who’s the new boy in town.

gurnaaz@tribunenail.com