Imagine dining at an upscale restaurant where the portions are deliberately small, and the chef decides to mix unexpected flavors together. That’s a bit like what you get with “The Buckingham Murders.” The film, which runs for about one-and-a-half hours, combines a surprising mix of ingredients: Kareena Kapoor, known for her mainstream appeal, Hansal Mehta, a master of realistic cinema, and Ekta Kapoor, a powerhouse of dramatic storytelling. Together, they’ve created a film that stands apart from their usual work.
The Buckingham Murders: A Unique Blend of Talents
“The Buckingham Murders” brings together three different creative minds, resulting in a film that’s unlike anything they’ve tackled before. The story is set in Buckinghamshire and revolves around Sergeant Jasmeet ‘Jass’ Bhamra, played by Kareena Kapoor. Jass is mourning the death of her young son, Ekam, and initially resists taking on a new case involving a missing boy named Ishpreet. As she reluctantly dives into the investigation, Jass uncovers more than she anticipated. The case eventually leads to a climax that, while not shocking, is certainly impactful.
The Plot Unfolds
The film’s narrative focuses on Jass’s personal grief and her professional duty. The case of Ishpreet’s disappearance becomes central, but the film also explores deeper themes like the troubled marriage of Ishpreet’s parents, Daljeet and Preeti Kohli, and the aftermath of the 2022 Leicester Hindu-Muslim unrest. Writer Aseem Arrora skillfully integrates these elements into the story without coming off as preachy, offering a poignant message about justice transcending religious divides.
The pacing of the film is quite deliberate. The first half builds up slowly, and it might test your patience, especially since the intermission arrives just 40 minutes in. However, once you’re back from the break, the story picks up pace, leading you towards the resolution of Ishpreet’s case. If you’re a fan of crime shows, you might even figure out the mystery before it’s fully revealed. Despite this, the film remains engaging by addressing significant issues like drug abuse and gender identity.
Kareena Kapoor’s Powerful Performance
Kareena Kapoor is the film’s emotional core. Her portrayal of Jass is subtle yet compelling. She manages to convey a deep sense of pain and anger without overwhelming the story. It’s impressive how she moves beyond her previous roles—like the lively Geet from “Jab We Met” or the pragmatic air hostess in “Crew“—to embody a grieving mother with such depth. Kareena’s performance avoids overshadowing the narrative or other characters, a feat often challenging for actors of her stature.
Ranveer Brar, typically known for his culinary skills, makes a notable acting debut as Daljeet Kohli, bringing intensity to his role. Prabhleen Kaur, as Preeti Kohli, convincingly portrays a seemingly innocent yet complex character. The casting choices by Mukesh Chhabra and Shakyra Dowling deserve applause for fitting the actors to their roles perfectly.
Areas for Improvement
While “The Buckingham Murders” stays true to its promise of a slow-burn thriller, it might not offer the jarring surprises some viewers might expect. The plot isn’t designed to shock or provoke widespread discussion, which could limit its appeal to a more niche audience. Slow-paced films like this often struggle to find broad acceptance, but they offer a rewarding experience for those who appreciate thoughtful storytelling.
“The Buckingham Murders” is a well-crafted film featuring strong performances, particularly from Kareena Kapoor. Its deliberate pacing and nuanced exploration of serious themes might test your patience at times, but it delivers a meaningful narrative that sticks with you. If you’re in the mood for a contemplative thriller, this film is worth the watch.
