Param Sundari Review: At the time the teaser of Param Sundari was first released, the fans were overwhelmed by the green backwaters of Kerala, the music and the new couple, Sidharth Malhotra, and Janhvi Kapoor. The anticipations were very high, particularly because romantic comedies in Bollywood were overly exhausted. Is this the movie that restores the glory of the genre?
The truth of the matter is sad but regrettable. Although the movie has some warm and visual indulgences, as well as good chemistry, it is weak in terms of storytelling.
Param Sundari Review And Storyline: Love Meets Technology
The story of the film is about Param Sachdev (Sidharth Malhotra), a Delhi-based tech investor who is unable to make a name. He is confronted by his father (Sanjay Kapoor), who is an experienced businessman, to earn his stripes in another month or to enter the family business.
In order to do it, Param invests in his new business Find My Soulmate, an application that connects people based on frequency compatibility. His life changes after the application starts linking him with Sundari (Janhvi Kapoor), a Mohiniyattam dancer in a scenic town named Nangiarkulangara in Kerala.
Sundari, a young girl who manages a homestay with her younger sister following the demise of her parents, has the ambition of becoming a fulltime dancer. She does not like concessions that she has been forced to make both in personal and professional life. Sparks between the two ignite when Param comes in, posing as a common tourist.
Yet the romance does not pass without trouble. Sundari has a childhood friend Venu who comes in as her future bridegroom and Param has to win not only the love of Sundari but also of her village elders.
On paper, the premise promises freshness, but the execution leans on predictable tropes.
Direction and Screenplay
Director Tushar Jalota attempts to strike a balance between light comedy and poignant romance, but the screenplay fails to retain the viewers. The initial half is too long to establish the core conflict whereas the second half, even though faster, is in a hurry.
Kerala is aesthetically filmed backdrop, and it is a visual pleasure. The rear water, the greenery, and olden time festivals give a colourful landscape. Sadly, the tale painted on it is unimposing.
The overuse of cliches is one of the common weaknesses. Whether it involves corny one-liners or the clichés of twists, the film is trapped in that formula Bollywood has played with decades.
Performances: Mixed but Memorable
Sidharth Malhotra as Param
Surely Sidharth is dashing. He brings the city, business-like nature along yet he has difficulties in phrases. His acting is too reserved, and after some time, a viewer would like him to leave his comfort zone.
Janhvi Kapoor as Sundari
Janhvi does a more nuanced job. She adds elegance to her move routines and pathos to the plight of her character. She does lapse into overacting, but her honesty is in her heart.
Supporting Cast
- Manjot Singh as Param’s friend adds humor and lightness.
- Sanjay Kapoor as the strict-yet-loving father brings energy reminiscent of his brother Anil Kapoor.
- Renji Panicker and child artist Inayat Verma leave small but memorable impressions.
Music: The True Hero
And there is one thing Param Sundari does wisely, music. Whether it is touching or energetic love songs, the music gives some of the otherwise dull scenes a lift.
The best thing is Pardesiya, a fantastical song which reminds of the magic of the traditional 90s melodies. The songs do not merely act as fillers but emotion boosters onscreen and the music is the heartbeat of the movie itself.
Strengths of the Film
- Breathtaking Kerala visuals and cinematography
- Chemistry between Sidharth and Janhvi in lighter moments
- Memorable soundtrack, especially Pardesiya
- A few well-timed comedy scenes that bring relief
Weaknesses of the Film
- Predictable, weak story
- Sidharth’s limited acting range
- Uninspiring dialogues and clichéd romance tropes
- Direction that fails to balance drama and comedy
Verdict: Watch or Skip?
Param Sundari is not an all-out failure. To those who like Sidharth Malhotra and Janhvi Kapoor, the movie is sweet enough with enough colorful scenes and songs to view once. However, you can go in hoping to get a cool, rom-com, and you might not. The movie glows here and there but does not come together as a solid whole. It is a single watch – pretty much the music and the scenic beauty of Kerala.
FAQs
Q1. Is Param Sundari inspired by Shah Rukh Khan’s films?
Yes, the film drops several references to classic SRK romances, though it tries to tell its own story.
Q2. What is the biggest strength of the film?
The music and visuals. Both elevate the film above its weak writing.
Q3. Is it suitable for family viewing?
Yes, the film is clean and can be enjoyed with family.
Q4. How is the chemistry between Sidharth and Janhvi?
Their chemistry is charming in lighter moments, though dragged down by uneven writing.
Q5. Should I watch it in theatres or wait for OTT?
If you’re a fan of romantic backdrops and soulful music, a theatre viewing enhances the experience. Otherwise, it’s safe to wait for OTT.