Daawat-e-Ishq is the equivalent of a delectable appetizer that gradually loses flavour, aroma, and deliciousness until you are exhausted, disappointed, and in desperate need of fresh air by the time you reach dessert.
The actors are unable to soar above the convoluted writing. They’re telling a story that goes off the rails early and never recovers.
Habib Faisal’s film starts brilliantly. Gulrez, played by Parineeti Chopra, is introduced. Her father whom she calls Booji, a clerk two years away from retirement, cannot pay the dowry expected by any half-decent groom. Thus, she is a gold medalist and basketball champion who cannot find a guy for marriage who doesn’t expect a dowry.
Then, all of a sudden, the film shifts gears. Gulrez devises a strategy to exact vengeance on the dowry-seeking grooms while still pursuing her dream of studying in America. Booji agrees grudgingly. Both change their identities, clothing, and locations—the plot switches to Lucknow, where Gulrez meets Aditya Roy Kapur as Tariq. Tariq is an accomplished chef and restaurateur. He failed Class 12 but armed with a positive attitude and delectable kebabs; he softens Gulrez’s heart. Gulrez is lured to the warm, enticing fragrances of love as he woos her with botis, rotis, and shahi tukras from his heart. He made different types of delicious foods to impress Gulrez and his father. And the story goes on.
This one may not fill your hungry heart, but one dish won’t hurt your appetite.
