Haddi Review: A Dark and Twisted Crime Drama

Haddi is a crime drama film that delves deep into the world of sordidness and vengeance. Directed by Akshat Ajay Sharma, this ZEE5 movie showcases a cast of instantly detestable characters, an unsavory money-making scheme, and a level of cynicism that rivals that of a political party. The film attempts to distinguish itself through the identity of its revenge-seeker - a hijra named Haddi, played by the talented Nawazuddin Siddiqui. In this review, we will explore the intriguing aspects of Haddi, analyzing its storytelling, characters, and unique themes.

Inconsistent Storytelling: A Deliberate Choice or Missed Opportunity?

The rhythm of the film can be described as exacting, with certain elements feeling rushed and deliberately vague. Haddi's time in Noida with Ahlawat's gang seems to lack depth, as if the intention was to make her mission more layered, but instead resulting in a conventional approach to subterfuge. The use of multiple montages, although intended to simplify Haddi's journey and enhance the music, sometimes feels forced and detracts from the overall narrative. Additionally, important aspects of Haddi's work, such as seducing and blackmailing rich perverts, are overshadowed and become mere footnotes in the story.

The film also introduces the underground bone trade, but fails to provide a clear hierarchy and understanding of the loyalties within Ahlawat's organization. Exposition scenes are divided into two parts, perhaps in an attempt to keep the audience engaged, but this approach does not always succeed in maintaining coherence. Furthermore, the blood-soaked climax, while aiming to elevate the story to the realms of fantasy, does not quite land.

Haddi's Transformation: From Operator to Desperate Avenger

Despite the inconsistencies in storytelling, the treatment of Haddi's character shines through at times. It is refreshing to see that she is not always in complete control of the plan, evolving from a sleek operator to a desperate individual in pursuit of closure. As her quest for revenge on a human level fails, the story takes on a mystical quality, as if willed into a different dimension. The flashback of Harika, beautifully portrayed through a song titled "Beparda," showcases the castration ceremony and her love story with an activist named Irfan, played by Mohd. Zeeshan Ayyub. These scenes stand out as the film's most compelling passages, breaking barriers and celebrating the unconventional romance between a Hindu trans woman and a Muslim man.

The Dark and Twisted World of Haddi

Haddi's screenplay, crafted by Sharma and Adamya Bhalla, is designed to constantly play on discomfort. With a runtime of 144 minutes, the film does not shy away from exploiting the shock value of seeing Nawazuddin Siddiqui dressed as a woman. Grotesque close-ups and exaggerated camera angles are used to reveal Haddi's true self, a choice that may seem bizarre in a film that aims to make the audience empathize with her. However, it is this edgy tone and gallows humor, particularly supplied by the venal Pramod, that adds a unique layer to the narrative.

A Compelling Performance by Nawazuddin Siddiqui

Nawazuddin Siddiqui delivers a peculiar mix of a social misfit and a serial killer in the making with his portrayal of Haddi. His performance is both compelling and nerve-rattling, intended to stand out and startle the audience. Siddiqui's ability to embody complex characters is evident once again, as he brings depth to Haddi's persona. The supporting cast, including Saurabh Sachdeva as Haddi's openly gay boss Inder and Anurag Kashyap as the venal Pramod, adds to the overall excellence of the performances. Kashyap's portrayal of a villain who can't be taken seriously is particularly noteworthy and adds a touch of dark humor to the film.

Conclusion: Haddi's Unique Blend of Darkness and Fantasy

In conclusion, Haddi is a crime drama that immerses viewers in a world of darkness, cynicism, and vengeance. While the film's storytelling may be inconsistent at times, it successfully explores themes of identity, unconventional love, and the pursuit of justice. The transformation of Haddi's character, from a sleek operator to a desperate avenger, adds depth and complexity to the narrative. The performances, especially Nawazuddin Siddiqui's captivating portrayal, elevate the film and make it a compelling watch. Despite its flaws, Haddi manages to carve out its own space in the crime drama genre, blending elements of darkness and fantasy to create a unique viewing experience.