From ZERO to infinity and back…

Finally, the monumental Zero hits the theatres and we get to witness THE BADSHAH woo viewers with his ravishing charm and brilliant screen presence. Since the trailers aired a couple of months back, fans were both excited and skeptical of Shah Rukh Khan playing a vertically challenged man, a gamble that paid off thanks to the ingenious vfx team and Khan’s vivid acting skills. The plot revolves around Bauua Singh (Shah Rukh Khan), a delightful 38yr old vertically challenged Meerut man, leading life on his terms, simply giving no shit to anyone. Desperate to get married, he comes across Aafia Yusufzai Bhinder (Anushka Sharma), a NASA scientist with cerebral palsy through a marriage bureau, their relationship bloom, and unfortunate turn of events set them apart. Its only after the advent of the diva Babita kumari (Katrina Kaif) in his life that he learns about the conflicting horizons of life and dynamics of relationships. Eventually goes through every thick and thin to win his lady back. The entire 1^st half of the movie is a treat to watch, with excellent performances from the leading cast, especially Anushka Sharma is as graceful and believable in her portrayal of a confident-ambitious space scientist, not letting her medical condition hinder her success in any way whatsoever. Special mention goes to the supporting ensemble cast, namely Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub (Guddu Singh), Tigmanshu Dhulia (Bauua’s father) and Sheeba Chaddha (Bauua’s mother).

The 2^nd half, however is a whole different narrative. The story rapidly looses its appeal, and becomes a drag, as if the writers had ZERO clue about the climax, with unnecessary plot twists and guest appearances. What started as an enjoyable experience abruptly becomes unbearable at times. In short, the movie in its excruciatingly long 2hr 44mins of running time simply fails to grip viewers to their seats. The writer/Director duo (Himanshu Sharma and Anand L. Rai) after giving the triumphant Tanu Weds Manu franchise seem to adrift with this ambitious project.

Final verdict: ZERO is the recital of all those people who at some point were able to leave their disabilities/short comings behind to achieve their goals. Every person is a ZERO, as apparently though they seem nothing, but eventually are the very essence of society. The 1^st half is loaded with commendable performances by the leading trio, strengthened even more by the lucid supporting cast. Props goes to the vfx team for giving life to Bauua Singh, along with mesmerizing music and background score by Ajay-Atul. But the 2^nd half makes ZERO a failed venture altogether. For avid movie buffs and SRK fans, it’s a must watch, others may gladly skip this one and wait for its premiere on streaming platforms or television.

Stars: 2.5/5