Ek Chatur Naar is a dark-comedy thriller that takes inspiration from the iconic Padosan song but reimagines it with contemporary layers. This is not just about a “clever woman” — it’s a layered tale of survival, wit, and ambition set in the restless backdrop of small-town India. Umesh Shukla, the filmmaker who has made Oh My God, makes a comeback with Ek Chatur Naar. He is known for blending social commentary with entertainment, takes a slightly different route this time, opting for a mood-driven thriller laced with irony and satire.
Ek Chatur Naar Story
The story follows Mamta (Divya Khossla), a single mother raising her son while living with her overbearing mother-in-law. Though she appears meek and vulnerable, beneath her quiet exterior lies a survival instinct sharper than most. Her life takes a turn when she crosses paths with Abhishek (Neil Nitin Mukesh), a manipulative corporate player involved in diverting government funds for personal gains. When Abhishek loses his phone — a device filled with incriminating secrets — Mamta finds herself in the middle of a cat-and-mouse chase that exposes corruption, ambition, and the absurdities of everyday life. What starts as a minor incident spirals into a gripping clash of wits, deception, and revelations.
Ek Chatur Naar Review
Umesh Shukla sets the tone with a blend of satire and suspense. The narrative constantly builds tension, only to undercut it with irony and humour, keeping the audience guessing. The first half is especially engaging, with sharp writing and quick revelations, while the second half leans into masala territory, shifting gears with back-to-back twists. Some pacing issues crop up in the middle, and certain characters could have been explored more deeply, but the film largely manages to hold its ground. Unlike Shukla’s earlier works that leaned heavily on social messages, Ek Chatur Naar focuses more on mood, quirky characters, and the unpredictable dynamics of its leads.
Ek Chatur Naar Performances
Divya Khossla Kumar is doing some amazing work recently. Yaariyan 2, Savi, and now Ek Chatur Naar, Divya delivers the brilliant performance. As Mamta, she balances fragility with cunning, leaving the audience second-guessing her every move. Divya has excelled in her role with utmost sincerity.
Neil Nitin Mukesh, as Abhishek, makes a strong return — charming, slippery, and layered with unpredictability. Their chemistry powers the film and creates its most compelling moments. Among the supporting cast, Chhaya Kadam shines as the stern mother-in-law, while Sushant Singh adds weight as Inspector Triloki. Zakir Hussain once again proves why he’s Bollywood’s go-to for corrupt political roles, though some of these characters could have been given more screen time. Rajneesh Duggal is not utilized fully.
Final Verdict
Ek Chatur Naar is not a laugh-out-loud comedy but one that thrives on situational irony, sly grins, and the contradictions of small-town ambition. While not flawless, it stands out for its darkly comic tone, engaging cat-and-mouse narrative, and memorable lead performances. Divya Khossla’s unexpectedly sharp turn and Neil Nitin Mukesh’s comeback make this thriller worth a watch. Umesh Shukla’s experiment with genre might not land every blow, but it certainly leaves an impression.
Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ½ (3.5/5)
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