I watched Arjun Reddy when it released but recently saw Kabir Singh and found it far more engaging. Shahid Kapoorโs performance elevated the film to another level. The narrative and storytelling feel fresh, even though the plot itself isnโt unique.
The movie explores the life of a talented but troubled surgeon, portrayed brilliantly by Shahid. Kabir is deeply flawedโfar from perfect. This sets him apart from stereotypical heroes. He struggles with addiction, anger issues, and self-destruction. Yet, thereโs a raw, endearing side to him. He loves deeply, is passionate about everything he does, and his intentions are always genuine. These human traits make him real. You root for him despite his flaws, hoping for his growth. The director makes you empathize with his shortcomings, which is what makes the film special.
Many who hate this movie are used to Indian films where the hero is an idealized figure. Kabir Singh defies that norm, portraying its protagonist in an unfiltered, raw, and real wayโshowing the GOOD, BAD and ugly.
PSEUDO FEMINISTS couldnโt handle this. Either they havenโt watched the movie or they struggle with its intensity. Ironically, they have no issue with ITEM SONGS that blatantly OBJECTIFY women through the MALE GAZE. Countless films portray actresses as mere eye candy, lacking depth and voice. Yet, these so-called feminists donโt object. They wrongly perceive such portrayals as โempowermentโ and โfreedomโ. Their version of feminism is skewed. Becayse They view everything in black and white, ignoring the GREY areas.
Theyโre quick to label Kabir as misogynistic based on one scene but fail to see the depth of his love for Preeti. He protects her, cares for her, and would go to any length for her. Preeti, too, slaps Kabir multiple times, yet no one calls that problematic. Of course, slappingโby a man or womanโisnโt justified. But relationships arenโt perfect, and the film aims to showcase their raw, IMPERFECT REALITY. Yes, Kabir was toxic to preeti at times. He should have treated her better. He should have regulated his emotions in a healthier way. But the film is about exploring his shortcomings, his weaknesses and strengths and, ultimately, his redemption.
The film forces reflection, pushing viewers to confront UNCOMFORTABLE TRUTHS about human nature and society. Itโs not for the weak-hearted or for pseudo-liberals and pseudo-feminists who refuse to see beyond the surface.