In the first place on everyone’s mind is the desire to change this world, but nobody likes to work towards it. Of course, there are movies about a character who decides to take the difficult path in order to bring about change for the better in the world; however, none of us would have chosen this route because life is too hard as it is. Another example of such a character can be found in Khayam Khan’s debut direction, A Game of Two Halves where we meet a young man who does not want anything but still he must do something. Nevertheless, on closer examination, it appears that he didn’t even touch anything there.
A Game Of Two Halves Review: Plot and Pacing
Sanjay’s journey from being a British-Indian student to becoming an underprivileged kids’ coach in Hyderabad forms the basis for A Game of Two Halves. The concept holds some promise but falls flat as per execution. It has slow pacing with unexpected time jumps and general editing mistakes that interfere with its flow. The protracted introduction introduces some anticipation only for it to evaporate within no time. However, amongst its lethargic pace there are moments when we catch sight of what might have been an engaging story – especially when Sanjay begins taking his role slowly.
Cinematography and Direction
The struggle of finding one’s footing as a debutant filmmaker are evident through Khayam Khan’s direction and cinematography in A Game of Two Halves. Although there are visually interesting parts particularly when you look at how well they captured the vibrant streets of Hyderabad, this direction fails to go deep or show finesse. By doing so, audiences will be left disconnected from the narrative because there was no balance maintained between exposition and storytelling throughout this movie making it disjointed while trying too hard without success thus creating a sense of disconnection between viewers and what should have been an emotionally charged account? Take into consideration the scene where Sanjay is taken to his new hostel by Kadeem. After reaching there, Kadeem mocks him saying that ‘he needs to take a bath as people in India (or Hyderabad) bathe more regularly than those from UK.’ And again, within the same scene, we see that even lower-class Indians have no means of washing themselves.
Acting and Characters
The performances in A Game of Two Halves leave much to be desired. Saaj Raja as Sanjay and Harish Khanna as Kadeem are not able to bring out the depth and subtlety required for their characters hence giving only half thought characterizations. Mia played by Lucy Jackson and Amma played by Swaroopa Ghosh also seem lifeless thus making some characters look shallow and half baked. Poor acting skills lead to emotional detachment between the film viewers.
Writing and Resolution
In A Game of Two Halves, writing does not fully delve into the complexity of the characters or themes involved. The journey towards it has some level of suspense however ends up being anti-climactic which leaves one unsatisfied. Shallow rendering results in this film’s intended message about persistence amidst community being eclipsed. Nevertheless, although one may consider giving the first-time director a break, this movie ends up falling far short of its potential.
The Verdict
A Game of Two Halves, as a film, has failed to make an impact because of its slow pace, poor performances and superficial handling. Although there are some glimpses of hope here and there, they are overwhelmed by the weaknesses of the film. The movie deserves a small mark for trying hard as well as bringing out something different now when commercial cinema is so loud with 1.5 stars.
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