And for once, the songs do not brake the proceedings. They carpet the narrative forming an attractive tapestry of love and betrayal, as Ms Leone moves from playing Mira in London to Leela in Rajasthan.
Stunningly mounted and sumptuously narrated, "Ek Paheli Leela" is a feast for the senses. Basha Lal's camera caresses Ms Leone's assets and the sand dunes of Jaisalmer with equal affection.
Though the luscious Ms Leone dazzles in her double avatar, the question is, can she act? Well, dear friends,while the jury is still out on that one, let's just say this. Could Zeenat Aman act? Like the sex bomb of the yesteryears, Sunny Leone fills up the screen with her voluptuous presence. Curiously she looks different not only in her two avatars but also from one frame to another.
Happily her male co-stars are also largely competent. Rajniesh Duggal (his eyes exuding the innocence and adoration of Rishi Kapoor) and Rahul Dev provide powerful support.And yes, it's good to see Mohit Ahlawat return to the screen with a quiet controlled and thoughtful performance.
Jas Arora's hamming gets annoying. And the gay comic jokes featuring the veejay Andy suck. These could have easily been avoided. This film with its disarming mood of a fairtytale didn't need perverse props. It moves forward with confident steps creating a world of unabashed makebelieve.
And yes, the twist in the climax is jolting.
It may not be revolutionary in concept or path-breaking in execution. But make no mistake. ‘Ek Paheli Leela' is the surprise of the year.
