Movie Review: Jolly LLB…doesn’t make a very convincing case

Strictly average is how you would describe this highly anticipated flick with Arshad Warsi playing the lead role. There are a few glimpses of high quality cinema – some power packed dialogues, a twist in the tale or two, some impressive writing and a few genuine laughs. However, overall, when it comes down to the final verdict, you get the distinct impression that while the intent may have been honest and earnest, the execution and presentation definitely lacked finesse.

Jolly LLB starts off simple and straight-forward which suits its setting and characters. However, the transition of the characters, as they get confronted by new challenges and situations is rather abrupt and disjointed. What’s worse is that there are seemingly gaping plot holes and over-simplifications that are only too obvious in the first watch itself. Either there is a shocking lack of depth in the research or an attempt to be overtly sensational and melodramatic or maybe they could simply not think of any other way to move the plot forward. Whatever the reasons, the ploy fails miserably and you only end up shaking your head in disbelief in certain sequences

The 3 completely unnecessary songs don’t help matters either and act as further delays to an already uni-dimensional plot. The interval does leave you with a ray of hope with something unexpected and you come back eager for more of the same in the second half. However, what gets served thereon is pretty ordinary.  Watching this movie you can’t help but think that in all probability the director had a few good ideas and got so excited with them that he hurriedly put together a movie. With the right time and effort, Jolly LLB had every reason to be Jolly good. With time spent on etching out each character, getting the audience to love/hate them, it would have led to a winning argument. Alas, for reasons unknown, what we have ultimately is average fare that makes an unconvincing argument

As for the performances, you get an absolute saviour in the performance of Saurabh Shukla. The veteran actor is in his element as the blustery judge who looks more lazy than he really is and his dialogues and performance simply shine. He is probably the best reason to watch this movie. As Jolly, Arshad Warsi, puts in an earnest performance. However, since the character itself needs fine-tuning it doesn’t make as much of an impact. One’s heart does go out to the poor guy – a phenomenal sidekick actor, he just doesn’t manage to make the same impression as a lead. Boman Irani doesn’t look as convincing at first but his performance becomes better as the plot gathers momentum, resulting in a decent, but not vintage performance. Amrita Rao as the love interest, looks simple and pretty as always, but her dialogue delivery lacks conviction

 

Jolly LLB then, doesn’t make for a very convincing case for me and I wouldn’t argue in its favor other than for Saurabh Shukla’s show stealing performance and a handful of power pack dialogues. Still the final verdict is yours to make