‘The Fakir Of Venice’ Movie Review: A trippy experience that lasts longer than that empty popcorn packet

Directed By: Anand Surapur
Produced By: Punit Desai, October Films LLP, Anand Surapur
Cast: Farhan Akhtar, Annu Kapoor, Kamal Sidhu, Mathieu Carriere, Valentina Carnelutti
Duration: 2 hours 6 minutes
Bollywood Bubble Rating: 3/5

Who is a fakir? He is someone who has renounced the pleasures of the material world for a higher purpose.  (After all, existence is a gift and we must learn to explore its depths.) Does the movie make you feel like a fakir? Yes, it does. Does it leave you with something more than an empty pop corn packet? Yes, it does. Is it at all times entertaining and gripping? Not really.

Coming to the story, the film is filled with situational comedy that feels (a little) raw but does make you laugh. Annu Kapoor’s claim to fame is his ability to bury himself in sand. He is an alcoholic and his performance is top notch. Farhan, on the other hand, is not at his best. Even though he plays an urban character who is a lot like him. His dialogues are witty, but executed poorly (like a film school actor).

As far as the direction is concerned, you get a sense that the man is inspired by a lot of foreign cinema. He tries to create an atmosphere, build authenticity (most of the film is in English and without subtitles) and use uncanny camera angles. Yet, in some scenes, he manages to be a headache inducing monster.

In one particular scene, where Sataar is gulping down codeine as if it is water, one feels a little queasy. In another, where Sataar is navigating the Venice nightlife inebriated (and on ecstasy) is also extremely uncomfortable.

There are a few good ones too. The climax of the movie is pleasant and touches your heart.

Final verdict: 

If you’re a hardcore cinephile, who can digest student films, you can watch it. Else, stay away.

Watch trailer: