ABCD 2 is what you would call a ‘dance film’. While ‘dance’ may be the keyword here, doesn’t it also have to be a ‘film’ — you know, with relatable characters, an interesting storyline and some coherence?
ABCD 2 , however, is so much about dance that you wonder if it should be called a film at all. Given that the majority of the film’s 147-minute running time features dance sequences, always in a stage-like two-dimensional setting, even the most dramatic moments feel staged, as though we’re watching a play.
It’s a recurring problem in films directed by former technicians used to handling specific departments of cinema. It’s like a cinematographer making a spectacular-looking film lacking soul. Choreographer-turned-director Remo D’Souza has orchestrated stunning sequences, but with no convincing emotion.
ABCD , in comparison, felt like an insider’s honest account of the dancing community. To this film’s credit, its best moments are when Dharmesh Yelande and Punit Pathak (both professional dancers) take to the stage.
The back stories of Varun Dhawan and Prabhu Deva are particularly artificial. Prabhu Deva’s, especially, doesn’t make sense. Of all the things a man can do to go to the U.S., why would he hatch a convoluted plan to coach a dancing team to get there? Why the deviousness? He might as well be upright with them and get the same result. Varun Dhawan’s ‘maa sentiment’ and love track are also forced.
Meanwhile, the film’s use of 3D has more to do with hiding the story’s flaws than enhancing the overall appeal. Even the songs are created to complement the dancing; not to exist as independent tracks.
However, if you’re among those who can overlook these, you can enjoy the spellbinding dance sequences and appreciate the effort that has gone into creating them. The film is paradise for dance lovers.
For others, like me, who want more than just dance, it’s like watching a cricketer’s biopic where you’re only shown countless replays of his straight drives. Where’s the story?
