Banner: Nicky Vicky Bhagnani Films Genre: Murder Mystery / Thriller Censor: UA
Story & Screenplay
Nikita Roy follows Nikita Roy (Sonakshi Sinha), a member of the International Rationalist Community, whose brother, Dr. Sanal Roy (Arjun Rampal), dies under suspicious circumstances in London. Convinced that it was murder, Nikita investigates the case herself, despite the police and detectives being dismissive. With the help of her ex-boyfriend Jolly (Suhail Nayyar), she uncovers the truth about Amar Dev (Paresh Rawal), head of a superstition-promoting cult, and the tragic circumstances behind her brother’s death.
The story, adapted from Pavan Kirpalani by Kush S. Sinha, suffers from a slow pace and lacks the thrill inherent to a murder mystery. The screenplay, with contributions from Neel Mohanty, Kush S. Sinha, and Ankur Vijay Takrani, often feels forced and convenient, leaving plot holes unaddressed for instance, why Nikita doesn’t immediately share crucial evidence with authorities. Scenes such as rushing out of Amar Dev’s sermon or escaping captivity lack plausibility. The post-climax scene is unnecessary and further dilutes the narrative’s impact.
Dialogues, penned by Belal Khalique and Kush S. Sinha, are ordinary and do little to heighten suspense or deepen character relationships.
Performances
Sonakshi Sinha is average as Nikita, lacking the conviction to make her investigative journey compelling.
Paresh Rawal delivers a mechanical performance as Amar Dev, seeming unconvinced by his own character.
Suhail Nayyar is earnest as Jolly and looks the part.
Arjun Rampal is ordinary in a special appearance as Sanal.
Supporting cast, including Kallirroi Tziafeta, Prakhar Saxena, Supreet Bedi, and Luv S. Sinha, provide routine or minimal support.
Direction & Technical Aspects
Kush S. Sinha’s direction fails to create a fast-paced, engaging thriller.
Music by Abhinav Shekhar is fairly melodious but lacks chartbusters.
Lyrics by Abhinav Shekhar are unremarkable.
Background score by Amar Mohile is unimpactful.
Cinematography by Anshul Chobey is competent.
Action and stunts by Ian Van Temperley are underwhelming.
Production design by Sunil Nigvekar and art direction by Ganesh Dhepe are satisfactory.
Editing by Ritesh Soni could have been tighter to maintain suspense.
Final Verdict
Nikita Roy is a tame, poorly paced murder mystery that fails to engage viewers. The lack of suspense, slow-moving plot, and weak performances mean it will go largely unnoticed at the box office and will struggle to generate word-of-mouth appeal.
PUBLISHED BY SUYASH PACHAURI, FOUNDER & OWNER, GLOBAL BOLLYWOOD | THE HOLLYWOOD SCOPE