“Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan” attempts to charm with its lead pair, Vikrant Massey and debutant Shanaya Kapoor, but ultimately struggles under the weight of a weak script.
A Blind Date with Disbelief
The film kicks off with a seemingly romantic setup: a chance encounter on a train between a truly blind musician, Jahan Bakshi (Vikrant Massey), and Saba Shergill (Shanaya Kapoor), an aspiring actor who is pretending to be visually impaired. Both are on their way to Mussoorie.
This premise, loosely based on Ruskin Bond’s short story “The Eyes Have It,” immediately diverges from its source material, where both protagonists are blind. The film uses this deviation to pepper the dialogue with cliched lines about seeing with “the eyes of the heart,” which even Vikrant Massey’s earnest performance struggles to salvage.
Performances Amidst the Potholes
Despite the challenging material, Vikrant Massey once again proves his ability to bring sincerity to even the most unbelievable scenarios. His portrayal of Jahan is one of the few anchors in a story that frequently veers into exasperation.
Shanaya Kapoor, in her debut, shows a promising underplayed style, reminiscent of her father, Sanjay Kapoor. While the script gives her little to work with, her natural spark suggests potential for better-written roles in the future.
Plot Twists That Strain Credibility
The film is riddled with moments that make it difficult to suspend disbelief. From Saba refusing to remove her blindfold even when alone with a stranger, to her calling Jahan a “creep” while simultaneously expecting his help, the character’s actions often defy logic.
The absurdity continues as Saba latches onto Jahan upon arrival in Mussoorie, even insisting on sharing a hotel room with him due to a supposed lack of availability. Her blithe indifference to causing near-fatal accidents and her refusal to take no for an answer only add to the audience’s frustration.
A Misfire Across Continents
The second half of the movie transports our protagonists to a different country, where they unexpectedly rekindle suppressed feelings. Saba is now the lead in a musical, suggesting her “method acting” didn’t quite land her the film role she initially sought – a detail that feels like a rather desperate attempt at humor by the writers.
Jahan, having completed a scholarship, is looking for odd jobs. The introduction of Zain Khan Durrani as the show’s producer and Saba’s boyfriend further complicates the already convoluted plot, creating a love triangle that feels forced and unnecessary.
- The film’s writing is its biggest downfall, leading to a narrative full of eye-roll moments.
- Vikrant Massey delivers a sincere performance despite a weak script.
- Shanaya Kapoor shows promise in her debut, suggesting potential for future roles.
- The plot’s numerous illogical turns make it difficult for the audience to engage.
“Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan” had the potential to be a charming rom-com, but it ultimately gets lost in its own narrative mess, leaving viewers wishing for a clearer vision.
