“Kho Gaye Hum Kahan,” released exclusively on Netflix, explores the entangled lives of three friends navigating the pitfalls of social media.
Kho Gaye Hum Kahan release date: December 26, 2023
Star Cast: Ananya Panday, Siddhant Chaturvedi, Adarsh Gourav, Rohan Gurbaxani, Kalki Koechlin
Director: Arjun Varain Singh
Watch time: 2 hours 14 minutes
“Kho Gaye Hum Kahan” Movie Review:
An exploration of social media’s not-so-glamorous side, the film introduces stand-up comedian Imaad Ali (Siddhant Chaturvedi) and his friends Ahana Singh (Ananya Panday) & Neil Pereira (Adarsh Gourav). Despite the relatable setup, the story lacks depth. The trio’s addiction to social media takes center stage, revealing the illusion of connectivity it creates.
What is best:
- Ananya Panday’s best performance.
- Realistic portrayal of social media’s impact.
- Impressive camerawork and editing.
What could be better:
- Shallow exploration of social media issues.
- Predictable plot.
Verdict: Watch without expectations!
Director Arjun Varain Singh, collaborating with Zoya Akhtar, navigates the narrative through relatable scenarios. The screenplay, however, lacks the needed complexity to make a lasting impact. Tanay Satam’s camerawork and Nitin Baid’s editing contribute positively to the film’s visual appeal.
Star Performances:
Ananya Panday delivers her most impressive performance to date in “Kho Gaye Hum Kahan,” exuding commendable confidence. Her portrayal of Ahana, intricately designed with Ananya in mind, showcases the actress’s dedication to matching the depth of the character on paper. Ahana’s character undergoes a well-defined arc, steering clear of monotony.
Siddhant Chaturvedi’s collaboration with Ananya Panday is refreshing, especially after his notable ‘struggle’ interview. Playing her best friend Imaad, he seamlessly embodies the essence of characters like Zain from “Gehraiyaan” and a blend of Zain & Imraan from “Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara.” The nuances are challenging to articulate but undeniably present.
Adarsh Gourav impeccably captures the essence of Neil Pereira, both physically and mentally. His natural acting prowess adds authenticity, enhancing the viewer’s connection with his character. Despite his talent, Gourav isn’t securing roles that match his potential. Kalki Koechlin’s special appearance is reliable, falling between the impactful presence in “Gully Boy” and the less impactful role in “Sam Bahadur.”
Direction and Music:
Arjun Varain Singh, in his directorial debut, weaves a meaningful story, integrating stand-up sets effectively. The inclusion of comedy adds a layer of emotional depth. The music, reminiscent of OAFF-Savera and Ankur Tewari, complements the film’s vibe, with Ishq Nachaawe standing out.
Arjun Varain Singh, known for assisting Zoya Akhtar on “Gully Boy” and directing Divine’s songs like “Kaam 25” and “Gandhi Money,” marks a meaningful debut with “Kho Gaye Hum Kahan.” The incorporation of stand-up sets is a commendable choice, although the jokes within are somewhat basic. While hoping for a Jerry Seinfeld-style tight set, the humor falls mediocre. Arjun’s decision to zoom out and reveal the ‘Hideaway’ comedy club effectively conveys characters’ emotional turmoil without explicit dialogue.
Emulating a vibe reminiscent of “Gehraiyaan,” the film’s soundtrack mirrors OAFF-Savera colliding with Ankur Tewari. A standout surprise is Karan Kanchan & Rashmeet Kaur’s “Ishq Nachaawe.
Kho Gaye Hum Kahan Movie Reviews: Others’ Opinions
Conclusion:
“Kho Gaye Hum Kahan” offers a sweet and real tale of friendship entwined with the complexities of social media. While it may lack depth, the film is worth a watch, provided you approach it with no expectations. Embrace the messy algorithm of social media and enjoy this predictable yet genuine narrative.
Note: The review is based on personal opinions and does not encourage or discourage watching the film.