‘Laapataa Ladies’ review: Kiran Rao’s comeback is a terrific watch

Not all that is lost is never found. In Kiran Rao’s patriarchy-dissing-rural drama, the women, despite the veils, eventually find themselves.

The word ‘laapataa’ (missing) is almost a metaphor to the fact that these women seem to be missing something in their lives.

When we meet newlywed brides Jaya (Pratibha Ranta) and Phool (Nitanshi Goel) draped under the veils of their sarees, one can tell that their muted response to everything happening around them is quite shocking. When a freak accident makes them swap not just places but also their destiny, you know you are in for a ride.

Kiran Rao uses humour, sarcasm, and a bit of suspense to send subtle messages on how patriarchy can stifle the dreams of young girls. Both Jaya and Phool have dreams of being happy in their lives but their ways and means of achieving it are very different. From the set decor, and camera work to the background score, everything is in tandem with what Kiran is trying to portray.

Also, the fact that it doesn’t sound preachy or forced is a ray of light in an otherwise setting where movies become boring and too repetitive with what they want to say.

The highlight of the film is the star performers. Everyone is terrific in the film – from the two girls (Phool and Jaya) who have accidentally swapped lives to the corrupt police officer with a golden heart, played by Ravi Kishan.

The film also has Chhaya Kadam playing a very interesting role of a railway platform food vendor whose life mantra is to mind her own business and always be wary of anyone trying to be extra nice.