‘Mirza’: Lacking in Logic, but Abounding in Ankush-Oindrila Charm

Initially perceived as just another action film centered around drugs and crime, “Mirza” surprises audiences with its dynamic storytelling and sharp screenplay crafted by the Sumeet-Saahil directorial duo, complemented by Arnab Bhaumik’s witty dialogues. Despite its lengthy runtime of nearly three hours, the film manages to maintain engagement and intrigue throughout.

Set against the backdrop of Kolkata grappling with the proliferation of a potent new drug named Chill Pill, the narrative kicks off with Kaustav (portrayed by Rishi Kaushik), a seasoned police officer, embarking on a mission to unveil the masterminds behind the drug trade. The initial suspects are a father-son duo, Sultan (played by Kaushik Ganguly) and Azhar (portrayed by Shoaib Kabeer), whose motives and allegiances are clear. However, the entry of Mirza (brought to life by Ankush Hazra) confounds the authorities, leaving them puzzled about his true intentions and connections.

While the film’s brisk pace prioritizes momentum over coherence, some gaps in the narrative suggest a deliberate setup for a sequel (as indicated by its subtitle, “Part 1 – The joker”). Flashbacks revealing Mirza’s enigmatic past gradually unveil him as a strategist with a hidden agenda. Ankush Hazra delivers a commendable performance in the titular role, showcasing not only his flair for comedy but also his prowess in action sequences, which are meticulously choreographed and visually appealing.

Kaushik Ganguly’s portrayal of the ruthless Sultan is notable, but it’s Oindrila Sen’s portrayal of Muskaan that steals the spotlight—a character that adds depth to the narrative with her grit and determination. Despite the somber tone of her role, Oindrila’s portrayal captivates, particularly in the latter half of the film. Shantilal Mukherjee’s portrayal of officer Murshid leaves a lasting impact, despite the brevity of his appearance. The inclusion of child actors adds further depth to the storyline.

However, as the plot unfolds, the narrative becomes somewhat predictable, with underlying agendas and connections gradually revealed. While the inclusion of clever plot twists injects excitement into the story, logic occasionally takes a backseat.

The film’s music adds to its charm, with tracks like the romantic “Ghalib” (by Ishan Mitra) and the upbeat “Elo Mirza” (by Amit Mishra and Aneek Dhar) standing out. In summary, “Mirza” emerges as a thrilling action-packed entertainer, bolstered by strong performances and ample hints of a sequel to come.