Neeyat (2023) Hindi

Synopsis

Neeyat, released in 2023, is a Hindi-language murder mystery that blends classic whodunit elements with a contemporary Indian flair. Directed by Anu Menon, the film features Vidya Balan in a sharp, cerebral role as an investigator trying to untangle a web of lies, betrayal, and secrets at a lavish birthday gathering turned deadly.

Story Summary

Set against the eerie beauty of a remote Scottish castle, the plot begins with Ashish Kapoor, a disgraced Indian billionaire, inviting close friends and family to celebrate his birthday. Kapoor, accused of massive financial fraud back home, has become a fugitive, yet he appears undeterred as he hosts an extravagant party at his estate.

Kapoor falls to his death under mysterious circumstances. What initially seems like a tragic accident soon spirals into a suspenseful investigation filled with shocking revelations. Enter Mira Rao, a stoic and sharp-witted CBI officer assigned to investigate the case. As she digs deeper, layers of secrets unravel among the eclectic group of guests, all of whom seem to have their own motives for wanting Kapoor gone.

Mystery and Writing

Neeyat pays homage to classic murder mysteries, borrowing structural cues from the works of Agatha Christie. Like Christie’s novels, it features a confined setting, a cast full of potential suspects, and a detective who must decode human behavior as much as physical evidence.

However, the film doesn’t stick entirely to convention. It introduces modern themes, including corruption, corporate fraud, family dysfunction, and moral ambiguity. The screenplay attempts to keep the audience guessing, throwing in several red herrings and a few genuine surprises.

The first half builds intrigue gradually, but the pacing dips in the middle. Some scenes feel stretched or repetitive, and the narrative could have been tighter. However, the final act picks up the pace and delivers a twist that recontextualizes much of what has come before.

Final Verdict

Neeyat is a stylish and cerebral thriller that attempts to blend traditional murder mystery with a modern Indian context. It doesn’t always land every punch, but it offers enough intrigue, a solid lead performance, and a satisfying climax to keep viewers engaged.