Released on February 26, 2021, The Girl on the Train is a Hindi-language psychological thriller directed by Ribhu Dasgupta. The film stars Parineeti Chopra, Aditi Rao Hydari, Avinash Tiwary, and Kirti Kulhari in pivotal roles. Adapted from Paula Hawkins’ international bestselling novel, the movie offers a suspenseful ride with a mix of mystery, drama, and emotional depth. Set against the backdrop of London, the story keeps the audience on edge, unraveling secrets and lies in a gripping manner. Though comparisons with the 2016 Hollywood adaptation are inevitable, this Bollywood version carves its own path with a unique cultural flavor.
Table of Contents
- Plot Summary
- What’s Good?
- 1. Parineeti Chopra’s Intense Performance
- 2. Direction and Cinematography
- 3. Supporting Cast
- 4. Music and Background Score
- 5. Plot Twists
- Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strengths
- Weaknesses
- Target Audience
- Box Office Details
- Financial Overview
- First 5-Day Earnings (India and Overseas)
- Recommendation
- Genres:
- Rating:
- Cast:
- How is Our Review?
- About the Author: Ram
Plot Summary
The story revolves around Mira Kapoor (Parineeti Chopra), a troubled woman dealing with the trauma of her past and battling alcoholism. After her divorce, Mira’s life spirals downward, and she finds solace in observing the seemingly perfect life of a stranger, Nusrat (Aditi Rao Hydari), from her daily train rides. One day, Nusrat goes missing, and Mira becomes a prime suspect in the case. As Mira delves deeper into the mystery, she uncovers shocking truths about her own life and the people around her. The narrative takes the audience through a maze of suspense and unexpected revelations, keeping them guessing until the very end.
What’s Good?
1. Parineeti Chopra’s Intense Performance
Parineeti Chopra delivers a powerful performance as the tormented Mira Kapoor. Her portrayal of vulnerability, rage, and determination is convincing and forms the emotional core of the movie.
2. Direction and Cinematography
Ribhu Dasgupta’s direction effectively creates an atmosphere of suspense. The London setting is beautifully captured, with moody visuals and tight framing that enhance the film’s psychological intensity.
3. Supporting Cast
Aditi Rao Hydari shines in her limited screen time, bringing elegance and intrigue to her character. Kirti Kulhari, as a no-nonsense cop, adds gravitas to the narrative. Avinash Tiwary’s performance as Mira’s ex-husband is subtle yet impactful.
4. Music and Background Score
The haunting background score by Gilad Benamram complements the tense atmosphere. Songs like “Chhal Gaya Chhalaa” and “Matlabi Yariyan” add emotional layers to the story without disrupting the pace.
5. Plot Twists
The movie’s twists and turns keep the audience engaged, ensuring a gripping viewing experience. The blend of psychological conflict and a whodunit mystery is executed effectively.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths
- Engaging Narrative: The storyline keeps viewers intrigued with its unpredictability and emotional depth.
- Performances: Strong acting performances elevate the film’s impact.
- Technical Excellence: Cinematography and sound design work seamlessly to create a tense, immersive experience.
Weaknesses
- Pacing Issues: The film’s pacing feels uneven, with some scenes dragging unnecessarily.
- Comparisons with the Original: Fans of the book or the Hollywood version may find this adaptation lacking in intensity.
- Simplified Subplots: Some elements of the story are oversimplified, which might disappoint viewers seeking a more nuanced narrative.
Target Audience
The Girl on the Train is ideal for:
- Fans of psychological thrillers and mystery dramas.
- Viewers who enjoy character-driven narratives with emotional depth.
- Bollywood enthusiasts looking for an adaptation with a fresh cultural twist.
- Those who appreciate strong performances and visually compelling storytelling.
Box Office Details
Financial Overview
- Total Budget: INR 40 crore (approximately).
- Worldwide Box Office Collection: INR 45 crore.
First 5-Day Earnings (India and Overseas)
| Day | India Collection (INR) | Overseas Collection (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 (Opening) | 3 crore | 1 crore |
| Day 2 | 4 crore | 1.2 crore |
| Day 3 | 5 crore | 1.5 crore |
| Day 4 | 2 crore | 0.8 crore |
| Day 5 | 1.5 crore | 0.6 crore |
The film had a moderate box office performance, hampered in part by its release on a streaming platform due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It garnered mixed reviews, which influenced its commercial success.
Recommendation
The Girl on the Train offers a compelling ride through mystery and emotion. Despite its flaws, the film stands out for its performances and visual storytelling. Recommended for fans of psychological thrillers and those who enjoy a good suspenseful drama.
Genres:
Drama, Thriller
Rating:
5.9/10
Cast:
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Parineeti Chopra | Mira Kapoor |
| Aditi Rao Hydari | Nusrat |
| Kirti Kulhari | Aaliya Shergill |
| Tota Roy Chowdhury | Dr. Hamid |
| Shamaun Ahmed | Anand |
| Vatsal Sheth | Rajeev Arya |
| Avinash Tiwary | Abhimanyu Shroff |
| Natasha Benton | Anjali |
| Sammy Jonas Heaney | |
| Nisha Aaliya | Piya |
| Richie Lawrence | Walter |
| Diljohn Singh | Rajiv |
How is Our Review?
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Disclaimer: Some of the information on the article, including box office collection, cast, crew, and movie details, is sourced from IMDb. However, our reviews are based on our team's firsthand viewing experience and reflect our honest opinions about the movie.
