Gustaakh Ishq is the first theatrical release of costume designer-turned-producer Manish Malhotra. This is a sweet-and-simple film; the protagonist is flawed but not toxic. There’s no violence and the characters are speaking in shayaris and in chaste Urdu. Hence, Gustaakh Ishq is a one-of-a-kind film. The light-hearted and romantic moments are lovely and the conflict is well-woven. However, the script has some issues and raises questions. After a point, the goings-on become unconvincing and also hurried, though the film moves at a fine pace otherwise. Except for ‘Ul Jalool Ishq’, none of the songs are memorable. This is sad, since a film like this ought to have a great soundtrack. Vijay Varma, who has left a mark in negative and dark roles, does very well as the almost-green flag character. His dialogue delivery is spot-on. Fatima Sana Shaikh plays the difficult role with ease. Naseeruddin Shah is adorable and only he could have played this role in this manner. Sharib Hashmi (Bhoore Attaché) is lovely, as always. Rohan Verma (Pappan’s brother) gets on one’s nerves, but that shows that his performance has worked. Zain Durrani (Young Aziz) leaves a huge mark. All in all, Gustaakh Ishq is a feel-good flick.
My rating – *** out of 5!