Starring : Neeraj Kabi, Geetanjali Kulkarni, Danish Husain
Directed by : Pushpendra Nath Misra
Producer(s) : Divyaa Iyer
Cinematography : Will Humphris
So, continuing the series of reviewing movies and shows during the lockdown period, our today’s pick is the web series Taj Mahal 1989 Directed by Puspendra Nath Mishra, this web series is available on Netflix.
What’s it about?
This web series is set in Lucknow university in the year 1989 and revolves around a couple played by Akhtar (Neeraj Kabi) and Sarita (Geetanjali Kulkarni) who are going through a mid-life crisis where romance is missing. On the other hand, there is a love triangle between three students of the same university. Rashmi (Anshul Chauhan) and Dharam (Paras Priyadarshan) are dating, while Angad (Anud Singh Dhaka), a close friend who loves Rashmi. The rest of the story is as to how their lives unfold in this bygone era.
What’s good?
The age-old romance in the bygone era is showcased beautifully. As it is set in the romantic city of ancient Lucknow, things look good in the matter of subtle romance. The attention for detail and coming of age for all the key characters has been showcased quite well. Sarita, played by Geetanjali Kulkarni, is clearly the most three-dimensional character and Geetanjali does well in her role. The discussion about how one should feel free in love is also showcased well. The political angle involved in the set up has also been executed well.
What’s bad?
The production values of the film are not that great. Things could have been even better in terms of editing and background score. There are many scenes that should have been edited out. The web series is a bit lengthy for its taking. Also, the philosophy of the young lovers showcased in this series looks way too modern and does not feel that you are in 1989. This part, the director has messed up a bit. The school girl romancing an elderly boy looks a bit odd in places.
Final Word
Overall, Taj Mahal 1989 is a web series that has a very interesting premise. The performances and take on love in the bygone era is also good. However, the length of the web series and its slow pace can get you at times. If you are the ones who love age-old romance and conflicts that adults went through in the late ’80s, you will like it. But one to have a lot of patience.
123telugu.com Rating : 2.5/5
