Neeyat

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*Neeyat* (2023), directed by Anu Menon, is a murder mystery inspired by the classic tropes of Agatha Christie novels and the recent *Knives Out* films. The plot centers around billionaire Ashish Kapoor (Ram Kapoor), who invites a host of guests to his island estate in Scotland for a birthday celebration. The attendees include family members, friends, and employees, all of whom have something to hide. As a storm traps them on the island, Ashish is found dead beneath a cliff with a suicide note. However, CBI inspector Mira Rao (Vidya Balan) suspects foul play and begins unraveling the web of secrets each guest harbors.

The film unfolds in a series of revelations, each more dramatic than the last, but the constant influx of new information quickly becomes overwhelming. The character of Mira Rao, played by Vidya Balan, is an eccentric investigator who seems detached and mysterious, subsisting on hard boiled sweets, adding to the intrigue. However, her peculiarities and the convoluted storyline may leave the viewer struggling to keep track of the various twists. Some character arcs, like Neera Kabi's and Tanveer's, lack the clarity and depth needed for the mystery to land with impact.

While the story can be confusing, Vidya Balan's performance is the film’s saving grace. She delivers a nuanced portrayal of an investigator navigating a maze of deceit, and her eccentricities keep the audience engaged. The supporting cast, including Ram Kapoor, Rahul Bose, and others, all have their moments but aren’t given enough development for the audience to fully connect with their characters.

The film succeeds in providing witty dialogue and keeping the tone light, but the ultimately rushed and tangled narrative detracts from the overall experience. For fans of old-school murder mysteries, *Neeyat* might offer some enjoyment, particularly for Vidya Balan's complex and captivating performance, though it struggles to tie all the threads together in a satisfying way.