Bamfaad review: A mildly explosive love affair

What happens when you combine organized crime fiction with romance? You get guns wrapped in love letters. Zee5’s original film, Bamfaad, delivers one such letter. 

Story

In the city of Allahabad, a hot-headed young man, Nasir Jamal (Aditya Rawal), keeps getting into fights and trouble. The mischief-maker is not scared of the consequences of his actions. 

When Nasir meets Neelam (Shalini Pandey) for the first time, she unknowingly ends up earning his respect and the more he observes her, the deeper in love he falls with her. The only problem is that Neelam has been claimed by the local gangster, Jigar (Vijay Varma), who provides for her but does not treat her with respect.

Ultimately, Neelam reciprocates Nasir’s feelings. However, Jigar plots against the couple and they are forced to flee the city. Nasir and Neelam must fight for their love and survival. 

Performances

Debutante actor Aditya Rawal, in the lead role, proves his merit and completely steals the show. He plays the role of a small town rebellious youth with perfection; his appearance, attitude, and speech help him deliver a convincing performance.

Similarly, Varma brings something new and unique to the character of the local gangster. The calmness with which he portrays his character makes Jigar every bit of conniving and terrifying villain.

Unfortunately, Pandey only looks natural on screen when she is playing the damsel. Whenever her character has to be assertive or bold, she fails to leave an impression.

Jatin Sarna, who plays the backstabbing friend, is also worthy of appreciation. 

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Positives

The best aspect of Bamfaad has to be the realistic depiction of Allahabad. The creators clearly worked hard, on everyday phrases and accents that the actors use, to capture the essence of the city and replicate it on screen.

The ending of the film is not stereotypical; it is unexpected and something that usually does not happen at the end of a romantic film. The hero and the heroine are not conveniently killed off or made to ride off into the sunset, holding hands; they are made to face the repercussions instead.

Another thing in Bamfaad that deserves appreciation is the attention that was given to the subplots and when the ending neared, all the dots connected. The film tied all of the loose ends before reaching the conclusion. 

Negatives

Bamfaad is another one of those Bollywood movies that blur the line between stalking a girl and wooing her. It further problematizes the depiction of love when Nasir’s infatuation with Neelam, based on two brief encounters, is confused with true love.

The film would have been better if the writers had worked a little more on the characterisation. It would have provided the audience with a better understanding of the choices made by the characters in the story. 

The film begins on an entertaining note, but half way through, it is easy to lose interest. Bamfaad would have brought something new to the table, if not for mediocre writing. 

Worth It?

Bamfaad would be liked by people who enjoy good old Bollywood romances with gun wielding gangster villains. A small town love story, full of dangers and chances, can be enjoyed once in a while.


Also Read: Ek Thi Begum review: A gruelling revenge drama

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What happens when you combine organized crime fiction with romance? You get guns wrapped in love letters. Zee5’s original film, Bamfaad, delivers one such letter.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v1XslvO2efg Story In the city of Allahabad, a hot-headed young man, Nasir Jamal (Aditya Rawal), keeps getting into fights and trouble. The...Bamfaad review: A mildly explosive love affair