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‘Murder Mubarak’: A Self-Aware Whodunnit
Based on Anuja Chauhan’s ‘Club You To Death’, ‘Murder Mubarak’ is a classic ‘whodunnit’ which brings to life the vibrant, class-conscious world of Delhi's elite clubs. Directed by Homi Adajania, the film is a delightful rollercoaster ride through intrigue and societal satire, bolstered by a stellar ensemble cast.
Set against the backdrop of the exclusive Royal Delhi Club, the murder of fitness coach Leo sets off a chain of events that exposes the tangled web of secrets and scandals lurking beneath the polished veneer of the club's members. Led by the astute ACP Bhavani Singh, played with trademark charm by Pankaj Tripathi, and his sidekick Padam, the investigation peels back layers of deception, revealing each suspect's hidden motives. With his affable demeanour and keen intellect, Tripathi brings Bhavani to life as a character who is as enigmatic as he is endearing. His interactions with the various suspects, from the aristocratic Rannvijay Singh (Sanjay Kapoor) to the vivacious Bambi Todi (Sara Ali Khan), are a masterclass in psychological manipulation, as he deftly pursues the web of lies and deceit that surrounds the murder. But it's not just Bhavani who shines in ‘Murder Mubarak’; the entire ensemble cast delivers standout performances that breathe life into Chauhan's colourful characters. The film features a diverse cast, with each character brought to life brilliantly by the talented actors. From the flamboyant Shehnaaz Noorani (Karisma Kapoor) with her faded glamour, to the enigmatic Rannvijay Singh (Sanjay Kapoor), and the endearingly ditzy Bambi (Sara Ali Khan), every member of the ensemble adds depth and nuance to the narrative. Special mention must be made of Dimple Kapadia's portrayal of the eccentric Cookie Katoch, a scene-stealer with her tequila-and-beetroot concoctions and artistic pursuits.
While the plot unfolds with gripping twists and turns, occasionally the film falters with scattered subplots that could have benefited from further exploration. While the central mystery is engaging, there are moments when the plot feels somewhat disjointed, with certain subplots failing to fully resonate. In particular, the storyline involving the orphanage and the abandoned baby feels underdeveloped, robbing the film of some of its emotional impact. Although Sara Ali Khan’s acting, which has always been a topic for debate, doesn’t seem to have improved, the storyline and opulent aesthetics of the film take the audience’s mind off of it. These minor flaws are overshadowed by the film's sharp wit and keen observation of Delhi's social dynamics. The film remains a thoroughly enjoyable cinematic experience, offering a tantalising glimpse into a world of wealth, privilege, and intrigue.
This self-aware murder mystery is a window into the complex social fabric of Delhi's elite circles, where status, privilege, and secrets intertwine to create a world both alluring and fraught with tension. The narrative is as much about the characters' inner lives as it is about the crime at hand. It is a celebration of storytelling, of the power of words to transport us to far-off places and introduce us to characters we'll never forget. So watch it, savour it, and then, if you still haven't, immerse yourself in the world of Anuja Chauhan's novels for an even richer experience.
