In The Buckingham Murders, Kareena Kapoor Khan once again proves her versatility, delivering a deeply affecting performance that anchors Hansal Mehta’s measured yet gripping crime thriller. Following her breakout role as a single mother in Netflix’s Jaane Jaan, Kapoor effortlessly transitions into the character of Detective Sergeant Jasmeet “Jass” Bhamra, a police officer mourning the tragic loss of her own child while investigating the murder of a British-Indian schoolboy. Set in the quiet town of High Wycombe, the film simmers with tension, navigating themes of grief, motherhood, and community divides.
The Balaji Telefilms production, co-produced by Kareena Kapoor Khan, refrains from falling into the trappings of a conventional murder mystery. Instead, it delves into the emotional complexities of its characters, especially Kapoor’s Jass, whose inner turmoil and professional responsibilities collide. Written by Aseem Arrora, Kashyap Kapoor, and Raghav Raj Kakker, the film takes a fresh approach to the genre, focusing on the why and who rather than the how and what, keeping audiences engaged with its slow-burning intensity.
The narrative begins with the disappearance of 10-year-old Ishpreet Kohli, whose body is later found in a car. Jass is assigned to the case, partnering with Detective Inspector Hardik “Hardy” Patel (Ash Tandon), who is quick to pin the murder on 19-year-old Saquib Chowdhary, a British-Pakistani teenager. However, Jass, convinced that there’s more to the story, embarks on a deeper investigation. As the film progresses, the investigation uncovers not just clues about the crime, but the cultural and social tensions that lurk beneath the surface of the immigrant community.
Kapoor’s portrayal of Jass is powerful and understated, as she balances her personal grief with her pursuit of justice for the murdered child. Her character’s vulnerability, anger, and unwavering determination come through as she deals with the haunting memories of her son’s violent death. Jass’s personal tragedy and the professional challenge she faces mirror each other, adding depth to the film’s exploration of loss and healing.
An Ensemble Cast and Strong Direction
While Kapoor is the film’s heart, the supporting cast enhances the story’s depth. Ranveer Brar, as the bereaved father Daljeet, offers a restrained yet moving performance. Ash Tandon brings a sense of urgency as the impatient DI Hardy Patel, while Keith Allen, playing Superintendent Miller, adds gravitas to the team. Kapil Redekar’s portrayal of the accused teenager, Saquib, further complicates the narrative as Jass digs deeper into the troubled relationships and hidden prejudices of the town.
Hansal Mehta, known for his thoughtful and socially relevant films like Shahid and Aligarh, delivers his first murder mystery with precision and sensitivity. While staying within the bounds of the genre, he injects the film with a broader emotional and cultural context that elevates it beyond a simple whodunit. His direction, combined with Emma Dalesman’s cinematography and Amitesh Mukherjee’s editing, brings a subtle, unflashy visual style that suits the film’s somber tone.
Themes of Motherhood and Resilience
At its core, The Buckingham Murders is not just a crime thriller but a meditation on motherhood and resilience. The film portrays three different mothers, each dealing with loss in their own way. Jass struggles with her past trauma, Preeti (Prabhleen Sandhu), the murdered boy’s mother, processes her grief quietly, while Saquib’s mother (Ruchika Jain) pleads for her son’s innocence. Through these characters, the film explores the multifaceted nature of motherhood, showing how it can empower, test, and ultimately define these women.
In one of the film’s most poignant moments, Jass confronts a man who questions his wife’s capability as a mother. Her response, both personal and professional, speaks to her fierce protection of the role that women play in society, refusing to let anyone diminish their choices.
Conclusion
With its focus on emotional depth, strong performances, and layered storytelling, The Buckingham Murders stands out as a compelling entry in the crime thriller genre. Kareena Kapoor Khan’s nuanced portrayal of a grieving mother seeking justice is a highlight, supported by a talented ensemble cast. Hansal Mehta’s direction infuses the film with a quiet intensity that lingers long after the credits roll.
The Buckingham Murders isn’t just about solving a crime; it’s about confronting loss, navigating complex relationships, and understanding the human psyche. For fans of thoughtful thrillers that offer more than just suspense, this film is a must-watch.
Sources By Agencies
