There are many dramas that should end at the 22-24 episode point, because even that is stretching the story too thin – and yet, they drag on until episode 35 or, even worse, episode 100 with that wafer thin plot. Then there are stories like “Raqeeb Se,” “Dil Na Umeed Toh Nahi” and Laapata” that are refreshing for audiences, stories that keep the proceedings short and sweet, ending before the 24 episode mark and leaving audiences either satisfied or wanting more. In the case of “Laapata,” it’s the latter. Starring Ali Rehman Khan, Sarah Khan, Ayeza Khan and Gohar Rasheed in lead roles, the story has been written and directed by Khizer Idrees.
In episode 22, the finale, Falak (Sarah Khan) is on trial and, as a pleasant surprise, Munira appears in court, telling her version of the truth and setting Falak free. This wraps up rather neatly as Shams (Ali Rehman Khan) and Falak return back home, their bond and faith in one another restored. Shams and Falak plan for their future while Falak puts Geeti in her place by exposing her past actions to her mother. This is a nice change, though one wishes more focus had been put on this – Falak has just spent time in jail, so it’s obvious that, like Shams, her attitude and demeanor has changed and she’s no longer a sitting duck (though she never was). It would have been nice to see this transition. With Geeti out of the way and their problems solved, Geeti and Shams celebrate their union with their entire family and friends surrounding them – except Geeti.
Quite honestly, it’s the very last scene with Geeti that leaves the audience laughing and walking away satisfied, because it doesn’t follow any cliches. That final emotional scene leaves audiences wondering “Can a character like Geeti really feel this much remorse? Isn’t this too much?” and then, the answer is made clear – No. Geeti’s simply performing for the cameras, now an actress, and a diva allowed to throw all the tantrums she likes. Ayeza Khan has been wonderful as Geeti and while many complained about Ayeza’s role not being a central character, it’s clear why Ayeza chose to sign this role. Geeti has been the most layered character in the show, a woman who is inwardly devious and manipulative, even veering towards psychotic – and yet, inside, all she ever wanted was love. It’s genuinely satisfying to see that Geeti’s personality traits and mental state is not glossed over – rather, she simply continues to be who she is.
The lead cast all did a fantastic job. Ali Rehman Khan fit into this role so naturally and it was great to see how he changed over time post his release from jail. Shams at the beginning of the show and Shams at the end of the show are two entirely different people – and rightly so, as he endured a lot to change. Sarah Khan’s Falak has been an inspirational character and while her silence with her family regarding her husband’s death was absolutely ridiculous, she emerges as strong as ever post release. Sarah Khan was convincing in this role. A shoutout must be given to the actress who plays Nasreen – she is so entertaining to watch. The supporting cast does well, but one has to wonder why the parents in this family are so lax regarding their children. Geeti’s mother has no idea about her daughter’s actions, while Falak’s parents allow Shams to handle the entire case, never even visiting Falak in jail. Who does this?
The story, unfortunately, does come across as too rushed and half-baked overall. It just seems as though there was so much more to elaborate on and the show did not need to end so quickly without allowing time to wrap up loose ends rather than relaying all this action within one 40 minute episode. Also, it appears as though the editor took creative liberty with including his “underrated songs” playlist and throwing in those songs unnecessarily for long song sequences that didn’t even fit the moment. “Laapata” has been an enjoyable ride with some great performances and an interesting concept. However, as a story, “Laapata” had a lot to unpack – but it feels as though a lot of it was left in the bag.