Exploring the Themes of Materialism in Jannat: A Critical Review

The Allure of Materialism in Jannat

The contemporary obsession with material wealth is vividly portrayed in the film Jannat. The narrative encapsulates the desire for luxury and instant gratification, showcasing characters who pursue wealth at any cost. Mahesh Bhatt's critique of material excess unfolds in settings like upscale malls and lavish restaurants, where money flows freely. A pivotal moment occurs when the protagonist, captivated by a diamond ring, impulsively shatters a showroom window to claim it.

The film suggests that one can achieve their desires through force, dismissing the moral lessons imparted by parents about honesty. A character cynically remarks, 'Honest money means hard work and little reward,' reflecting a worldview that prioritizes wealth over integrity.

Sanjay Masoom's sharp dialogues resonate throughout the film, capturing the language of those who will stop at nothing to attain their dream homes.

Jannat serves as yet another moral tale from Bhatt's repertoire, warning against the relentless pursuit of wealth. It encourages viewers to aspire for higher paychecks but cautions that chasing after zeros can lead to a life devoid of meaning.

Fifty-seven years ago, in Hrishikesh Mukherjee's Satyakam, Dharmendra's character resisted the temptations of materialism on his path to redemption. As he faces death, he reflects on his life of integrity, stating simply, 'I've lived.'

In contrast, Emraan Hashmi's character, a small-time hustler who becomes embroiled in cricket match-fixing and crime, faces a different fate. Will he be able to reflect on his life with the same sense of fulfillment?

At its core, Jannat is a tragic love story, intertwining the innocence of the female lead with the male protagonist's moral decay, reminiscent of themes from Kalyug and Gangster.

While both Kalyug and Gangster offer more compelling narratives, debut director Kunal Deshmukh struggles to break free from the clichés that often accompany Bhatt's films. The familiar archetypes—an ethically conflicted hero, a strong heroine, and a father whose principles are ultimately validated—are present but lack depth.

Despite its shortcomings, Jannat incorporates cricket into its storyline, engaging audiences while navigating Bhatt's established themes. The use of actual cricket footage is effective and enhances the plot.

A memorable scene features Emraan's father commenting on the lavishness of his son's bathroom, highlighting the film's critique of excess. However, the portrayal of cricketers in morally questionable situations feels somewhat amateurish. The murder of an Australian coach echoes real-life scandals, adding a layer of drama to the narrative.

Ultimately, the film contrasts the protagonist's obsession with wealth against his love for Zoya, played by Sonal Chauhan. The climactic moment where an engagement ring is juxtaposed with a gun leaves a lasting impression.