Movie Review: Te3n…good for a one-time watch

When the trailer for this one came out – I thought we’d finally have the next ‘Kahaani’. While it spins quite a tale together, Te3n despite the solid starcast of the three stalwarts doesn’t manage to pull it off. That said, it is still fairly engaging – even if its not thrice the fun you’d hope for. Of course, the fact that it’s a complete copy of Montage, a South Korean film, doesn’t earn it any brownie points.

Te3n starts off slow and uneven. While the events themselves can be every bit thrilling and engaging, the director chooses to slow things down. It is only the class act of  a downcast, disillusioned yet determined Amitabh Bachchan that keeps you engaged despite the slow proceedings. To make matters worse, the director chooses this juncture to introduce songs as well as to showcase Kolkata, almost bringing matters to a grinding halt. Mercifully, though the action picks up considerably post the initial lull.

The interval introduces a somewhat interesting twist to the events and while it all looks quite contrived, it keeps you interested nonetheless. What is pivotal to this one, is the climax which, while highly implausible – does seem to be the best way this could’ve ended. In fact, looking back at events, after having witnessed the climax, a lot more sequences get put in perspective. However, the director definitely misses a trick or two to make this startling reveal truly thrilling. This is further spoilt by unnecessary and frustrating flashbacks to what is pretty clear for the audience and less time spent on unraveling the thread that truly binds things together. Also, it misses some critical emotional heft around crimes and motivations. Let’s just stop at that.

As for the acting, Vidya Balan is wasted in an uninspiring avatar – she can do so much more with her capabilities. Nawazuddin Siddiqui has a more interesting character but surprisingly doesn’t emote as much as he could. The real star of the show is of course, Big B who puts in a wonderfully restrained performance.

In the hands of a more capable director, Te3n had a set up that could’ve really got the pulse racing or at least kept you at the edge of your seat. Given the uneven pacing though, you end with a thought that while it’s a decent script, its good for a one-time watch.