Why "Heermandi" Was a Waste of Resources: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly
Hello, discerning readers! Welcome back to Aware
Naari, where we analyze and discuss topics that
matter to you. Today, we’re diving into a critical
review of “Heermandi,” a much-anticipated project
that, unfortunately, did not live up to the
expectations.
The Good: Production Design and Cinematography
Production Design
Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s films are
known for their opulent sets and
grandiose designs, and
“Heermandi” is no exception. The
lavish sets and attention to detail
in recreating the historical period
are commendable. The intricate
costumes and elaborate set
pieces transport the audience to a
different era, showcasing
Bhansali’s eye for visual splendor.
Cinematography
The film’s cinematography is
another highlight. The beautiful
frames, rich color palettes, and
sweeping camera movements add
a visually stunning dimension to
the narrative. Every scene is
meticulously crafted to create a
visual feast, which is a signature
of Bhansali’s directorial style.
The Bad: Nepotism Debate and Emotional Disconnect
Nepotism Debate
The casting of “Heermandi” has reignited the
debate on nepotism in Bollywood. With
several prominent roles being given to actors
with industry connections, the film fails to
bring fresh talent to the forefront. This
reliance on star kids and established names
undermines the potential for discovering new
and diverse talent, keeping the nepotism
debate alive and well.
Emotional Disconnect
The film attempts to evoke strong emotions
by depicting the plight of the tawaifs
(courtesans) and incorporating a patriotic
angle. However, these emotional appeals fall
flat. The characters lack depth and
relatability, making it hard for the audience to
empathize with their struggles. The patriotic
elements feel forced and do not seamlessly
integrate with the primary narrative, resulting
in a fragmented storyline.
The Ugly: Inauthentic Dialogue and Overdramatic Style
1
Inauthentic Dialogue
One of the most significant drawbacks of “Heermandi” is its heavy and
inauthentic dialogue writing. The dialogues are laden with poetic
flourishes and archaic language that feel out of place and unnatural.
This creates a disconnect between the characters and the audience,
as the dialogue does not flow naturally or reflect real human
interactions.
2
Overdramatic Style
While Bhansali’s dramatic style has worked well in his previous films, it
does not serve “Heermandi” well. The exaggerated performances and
theatrical expressions detract from the film’s authenticity. The story
could have benefited from a more nuanced and restrained approach,
allowing the characters and plot to shine through without the over-the-
top dramatics.
Conclusion: A Wasted Opportunity
“Heermandi” had the potential to be a powerful and evocative series,
but it ultimately squandered its resources. The production design
and cinematography are undoubtedly beautiful, but they cannot
compensate for the film’s deeper flaws. The nepotism debate
continues to overshadow the industry, and the emotional aspects of
the story fail to resonate.
The heavy-handed dialogue and dramatic style that Bhansali brings
did not complement the script, making the viewing experience more
of a long agony than an engaging narrative. While the film has its
moments of visual brilliance, it is ultimately an example of style over
substance, failing to deliver a compelling and cohesive story.
Aware Naari's Critical Eye
Critical Analysis
We hope this review has
provided you with a thorough
understanding of why
“Heermandi” fell short of
expectations. Stay critical,
stay curious, and continue
exploring the world of cinema
with us.
Discerning Perspective
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ourselves on our discerning
perspective and our ability to
analyze and discuss topics
that matter to you, our
readers.
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Until next time, Aware Naari