Nukkad Naatak, a lesser-known film, drops on OTT and focuses on the power of performing arts. The film follows two college students who help five children from a nearby slum get into school in exchange for re-admission. Directed by Tanmaya Shekhar, the film gets an essential detail right - its protagonists feel authentic. Casting unfamiliar faces works in its favour, lending the story a rawness that feels earned.
However, the film falters in its tendency to stretch itself thin, attempting to weave in themes like identity struggles that feel underdeveloped. The second half finds firm footing as it zeroes in on the central challenge. The emotional, logistical struggles of the two leads are portrayed with sincerity.
Molshree and Shivang pull off their roles very well. Nirmaa Hajra, in particular, as Chhoti, does a convincing job. The music by Parthhesh Menon and lyrics by Yogesh Dimri go well with the proceedings.
Nukkad Natak is a sincere, if slightly uneven, ode to grassroots storytelling. It wanders and overreaches at points, but its heart is firmly in the right place.
