The film “Farrey” opens with an exam hall scene, setting the backdrop for a compelling narrative. We meet Niyati (Alizeh Agnihotri), Salman Khan’s niece, who secures the top spot nationwide in her tenth-grade exams. As an orphan, Niyati resides with Warden and Zoya (Ronit Roy and Juhi Babbar), a compassionate couple managing a shelter for girls under 18. Notably, Ronit Roy’s character is intriguingly nameless until the film’s conclusion, consistently referred to as ‘Warden.’
Section 1: Academic Triumphs and Setbacks
Niyati’s academic prowess earns her a coveted spot in Delhi’s prestigious school. However, her scholarship is revoked when she aids Chhavi (Prasanna Bisht) and friends in cheating during exams. Financial struggles prompt Niyati to accept a lucrative offer to facilitate cheating on a grander scale, leading to a more complex plot.
Section 2: Script Analysis – Adapting “Bad Genius”
“Farrey” draws inspiration from the popular Thai film “Bad Genius,” offering a critical perspective on the education system. However, deviations from the emotional core of the original film impact the narrative’s depth. The shift in Lynn’s motivation from her low-earning teacher father to Niyati being an underprivileged orphan alters the dynamic, diluting the original’s compelling narrative foundation.
Section 3: Character Portrayals and Performances
Alizeh Agnihotri impressively debuts as Niyati, showcasing natural talent and depth in emotional sequences. However, the abrupt tonal shift in Sahil Mehta’s character and the modification of Ronit Roy’s character raise questions. Prasanna Bisht delivers a commendable performance, while Juhi Babbar’s role remains somewhat overshadowed.
Section 4: Direction and Musical Score
Director Soumendra Padhi, known for previous works like “Budhia: Born to Run” and “Jamtara,” adeptly incorporates positive aspects from the source material but occasionally falters in mitigating the negatives. The musical score by Sachin-Jigar, reminiscent of Amit Trivedi’s style, features standout tracks but also misses the mark in some instances. Sidhant Mathur’s background score, including the sound of a pencil rolling on a desk, adds a bittersweet touch to memorable scenes.
Conclusion: “Farrey” – A Close Yet Not Perfect Recreation
In conclusion, “Farrey” falls just short of being a faithful remake of “Bad Genius.” While it adeptly replicates some highlights, the original additions lack the same impact. The film receives a rating of two and a half stars.