Laapataa Ladies Review: A Heartwarming Film Celebrating Women Empowerment

In the world of Indian cinema, where female-centric stories are often rare, filmmaker Kiran Rao's latest film, Laapataa Ladies, stands out as a refreshing and heartwarming tale. Released recently, this movie delivers pertinent messages on equality, education, and women empowerment, all wrapped in humor. Laapataa Ladies features a talented cast of newcomers, including Pratibha Ranta, Nitanshi Goel, Sparsh Shrivastava, and veteran actor Ravi Kishan. 

A Captivating Plot

The plot of Laapataa Ladies revolves around Dinesh Kumar, played by Sparsh Shrivastava, who embarks on a journey back home after marrying Phool Kumari, portrayed by Nitanshi Goel. This journey involves multiple modes of transportation, from a scooter ride to a bus ride, and culminates in a final train journey. However, upon reaching home in the dead of night, Dinesh's family and friends are left stunned when they discover a swap has occurred on the train. Instead of Phool, Dinesh has brought along Pushpa, played by Pratibha Ranta. Meanwhile, Phool is stranded at another station, unaware of how to reach her husband. As Dinesh desperately searches for Phool and tries to locate Pushpa's family, the local cop, portrayed by Ravi Kishan, becomes suspicious of Pushpa's mysterious and dubious nature.

The Beauty of Nirmal Pradesh

Laapataa Ladies is set in the fictitious world of Nirmal Pradesh, a place that beautifully encapsulates the essence of small-town India. While the locations may be fictional, the problems and challenges depicted in the film are very real. The brilliance of the screenplay by Sneha Desai and Divyanidhi lies in their ability to adapt Biplab Goswami's story and infuse it with heartwarming details. As Phool waits for her husband, she befriends a beggar, a street vendor, and a chai wali (tea vendor) at the station. These encounters lead to an unconventional bond and valuable lessons on feminism, as Phool learns from an elderly lady who works at the tea shop.

Touching Upon Pertinent Issues

Laapataa Ladies delves into a myriad of societal issues, making it a thought-provoking and impactful film. The story explores themes such as female bonding, equality, the importance of education, self-reliance, and the unnecessary customs and diktats that women are subjected to. Each scene in the film drives home a distinct point without ever feeling like a lecture. The writing by Desai and Divyanidhi, combined with the stupendous performances, makes Laapataa Ladies an engaging and breezy watch.

The Stellar Cast

One of the highlights of Laapataa Ladies is its brilliant ensemble cast. Ravi Kishan, a veteran in Indian cinema, delivers a standout performance as the slippery cop. His impeccable comic timing adds depth to the film, and his presence looms large without overshadowing the newcomers. It's a layered performance that showcases Kishan's versatility and skill.

Speaking of the newcomers, Pratibha Ranta, Nitanshi Goel, and Sparsh Shrivastava shine in their respective roles. Nitanshi Goel, known primarily as an influencer, surprises with the depth she brings to her character. Her portrayal of Phool strikes a perfect balance between following societal norms and questioning them. Pratibha Ranta, as Pushpa, brings a touch of cynicism and spirit to her role. Her character's complexity is handled with finesse, and Ranta's restrained performance leaves a lasting impression. As for Sparsh Shrivastava, he flawlessly portrays the miserable yet responsible Deepak. His acting skills bring out the character's guilt, fumbling nature, and emotional journey.

A Triumph in Writing and Direction

Laapataa Ladies is a triumph in both writing and direction. The film's screenplay skillfully lifts the veil on numerous societal issues, addressing them with humor and subtlety. It is a testament to the writers' ability to create a story that speaks to the audience without resorting to preachiness. Kiran Rao, known for her acclaimed debut film Dhobi Ghaat, once again showcases her talent for crafting a well-crafted and well-shot film. Laapataa Ladies stands out as a feminist film that never vilifies men or whitewashes their roles. Instead, it celebrates the strength and resilience of women while embracing the complexities of human relationships.

Conclusion

Laapataa Ladies is a film that deserves recognition for its exceptional storytelling, strong performances, and important social messages. Through its engaging plot, memorable characters, and skillful execution, the film manages to strike a chord with its audience. Kiran Rao's directorial prowess shines through, showcasing her ability to bring nuanced stories to life. Laapataa Ladies is a must-watch for audiences seeking a heartwarming and thought-provoking cinematic experience that celebrates women empowerment in a gentle yet impactful manner. So, grab your popcorn and immerse yourself in the beautiful world of Laapataa Ladies.