'Kaanchi' is the story of a girl hailing from Uttarakhand who is brave, stubborn and fearless. After she realizes how unjust the system is, she sets on a journey to fight against it, all alone. With her conviction and determination, she knows she can bring about a social change. It is a typical good versus bas storyline. How 'Kaanchi' fights the big bad world of politics, power and wealth is what the rest of the film is about. Subhash Ghai is still stuck in the early 2000s it seems. The rich-poor divide has been highlighted yet again, after 'Pardes' and 'Taal'. Even though the cinematographer has captured the locales beautifully, the editing is a little loose. The film resorts to many clinches that Bollywood should seriously do away with. 'Kaanchi' has an old feel to it.

 

 

Till a major twist just before the interval, the film moves at a snail's pace. The story is well executed, no denying that, but overall the film disappoints. Preachy and idealistic, the film gives a far-from-practical solution in the end, leaving a bad aftertaste. But it is the intent that is the saving grace of the film. The message of women empowerment is strong and deserves a special mention. Mishti looks the part but doesn't impress much. She shows promise in a few scenes and disappoints in the others. Even though she is given some great scenes, she fails to put soul into her character. Kartik acts well but due to his weak characterization, fails to leave any impression. On the other hand, Mithun Chakraborty and Rishi Kapoor steal the show with their powerful act. The second half wouldn't have been half as watchable, had it not been for Chandan Roy Sanyal.