Rajjo Review from Bollywood Hungama!

Rating:**1/2

 

The getting together of numerous talents in a project instinctively raises the expectations from that film. Have a look at the wonderful talent associated with RAJJO: Kangna Ranaut, Prakash Raj, Mahesh Manjrekar, Jaya Pradha, Upendra Limaye, Uttam Singh [music], Binod Pradhan [cinematography], Muneesh Sappel [production design] and Vishwas Patil [writer; who makes his directorial debut with RAJJO]… Each one of them has proved himself/herself in their respective area of work, besides winning laurels and awards for their meritorious efforts. Expectedly, one hopes RAJJO to strike a chord.

Women empowerment is being stressed upon and women-centric themes are on the rise on the big screen. The Hindi film industry has often mirrored realities and Vishwas Patil's RAJJO, a woman-centric film, attempts to portray the story of a young woman who is pushed into the flesh trade by her near and dear ones, but she puts up a brave fight against the oppressors and emerges triumphant eventually. A well-intentioned film, indeed!

Rajjo is a love story set against the backdrop of the kothas of Mumbai. It attempts to unravel the journey of a nautch girl Rajjo [Kangna Ranaut]. At this juncture enters the college-going cricket champion Chandu [Paras Arora], who belongs to a middle class Maharashtrian family. It's love at first sight for Chandu. Rajjo too gets drawn towards him subsequently and love blossoms.

Begum [Mahesh Manjrekar], a eunuch, runs the kotha. When Begum gets to know of Rajjo and Chandu, she gets them married. Handa Bhau [Prakash Raj], a corrupt politician, desires Rajjo and creates havoc in Rajjo and Chandu's lives. After facing innumerable hurdles, but handling every moment with dignity, Rajjo overcomes the impediments eventually.

RAJJO has an attention-grabbing premise and like I stated at the outset, is well-intentioned too, but the screenplay could've been far more riveting. While the first hour is plain ordinary, the director reserves the best for the post-interval portions. To give the credit where it's due, the second half does boast of several engaging episodes, but the writing tends to get foreseeable at times, which dilutes the impact slightly. Yet, the conviction with which Vishwas Patil has made the film needs to be lauded, since the message he tries to convey is praiseworthy.

Ideally, the music should've been one of the strong points of the film, but barring a track or two, the soundtrack is mediocre. Binod Pradhan's cinematography captures the look of the film right. Muneesh Sappel recreates the red light area of Mumbai with authenticity. Dialogue could've been hard-hitting. Nonetheless, the writers have abstained from using abusive language, cuss words or vulgar content, which is a plus. The director has also stayed away from incorporating titillating visuals or sensuous sequences, which could've deviated your focus from the issue.

Having proved her mettle in films like GANGSTER, WOH LAMHE, RAAZ - THE MYSTERY CONTINUES, ONCE UPON A TIME IN MUMBAAI, TANU WEDS MANU, FASHION and KRRISH-3, Kangna makes a sincere effort to look the character, enacting her part with grace and elegance. Also, she looks lovely in Indian attire. The biggest revelation, however, are her dancing abilities. She scores brownie points in that department. Paras Arora makes a worthy film debut. He's confident and self-assured, despite being pitted against reputable actors like Kangna, Mahesh Manjrekar, Prakash Raj and Vipin Sharma.

Although Prakash Raj does try his level best to portray the evil side, one feels the talented actor is getting typecast in villainous characters. Mahesh Manjrekar is, as always, first-rate. Upendra Limaye shines in the sequence when he narrates his past, while performing an encounter. Swati Chitnis leaves a mark. Vipin Sharma doesn't get much to do. The actor portraying Prakash Raj's sidekick does a commendable job. Veterans Jaya Pradha, Dalip Tahil and Avtar Gill are effective in cameos.

On the whole, RAJJO is a well-intentioned movie made with gracious objectives of drawing one's attention to the genuine issues that plague the society. However, its release timing seems inopportune. The clash with a biggie like RAM-LEELA may sideline this well-meaning film

 

http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/moviemicro/criticreview/id/560699 

• 
  
• 
  

Satya 2 reviews from Taran Adarsh!

Ramgopal Varma has delivered several exceptional gangster films. As a matter of fact, RGV has made the maximum films in this genre, creating a rich repertoire over the years. SATYA and COMPANY stand out as milestone films, which have influenced and motivated a plethora of gangster films over a period of time. It's no secret that these two films, besides RGV's Hindi debut SHIVA, RANGEELA [a different genre, of course] and SARKAR, have propelled RGV as one of the most respected storytellers of our times. Obviously, one eyes SATYA-2 with equal enthusiasm for obvious reasons. But, let me clarify, SATYA-2 merely borrows the title from SATYA, but is no sequel to the trend-setting SATYA.

The promos of SATYA-2 clearly specify that underworld never becomes redundant. It merely changes form. That, in short, is the essence of this film. Let me clarify, SATYA-2 bears no resemblance to RGV's protégé Puri Jagannadh's Telugu film BUSINESSMAN, like a section of the media would like us to believe. The plot is different and RGV makes sure even the screenplay is way different from films of its ilk.

Just when everyone thinks that the underworld is defunct, Satya [Puneet] arrives in Mumbai to reinvent it and re-establish the mafia. His motive is simple: He wants to be the undisputed don of Mumbai. To start with, Satya floats a company based on the mistakes committed by the earlier dons and executes his master plan. He eliminates three influential people to unleash terror: a leading industrialist, the Police Commissioner and a powerful media baron. What happens next?

Unlike the gangster films of the 1980s and 1990s, which integrated gruesome violence in the narrative, SATYA-2 is more about cerebral power, with violence being an offshoot of the conspiracy that the entrepreneur adopts. The protagonist is suave this time -- unlike the earlier Satya -- and uses the mistakes [committed by the earlier dons] to stay a step ahead of lawbreakers and lawmakers. The cops, obviously, are caught completely off guard, since everyone is clueless of the new criminal on the horizon, his strategies and motives.

Like RGV's previous endeavors, SATYA-2 is loaded with style and attitude. The plot too is shades different from the earlier films in this genre, with RGV moulding it in the thriller format and unleashing the screenplay at a feverish pace. The fact that SATYA-2 is not inspired by any of the gangster films attempted earlier keeps you on the edge and heightens the curiosity. But there are hiccups. The inclusion of songs is a blemish you just cannot disregard. Ideally, a film like SATYA-2 would've had a stronger impact if RGV would've avoided the songs. The songs only work as a speed breaker here. Even the one filmed in Kashmir, post Satya's marriage, is an absolute no-no, despite some stunning visuals it has to offer. Similarly, the romantic track between Satya and his sweetheart is far from mesmerizing.

Additionally, the culmination to the story will meet with extreme reactions. It's an open end and while some may like the thought [I think, it's most appropriate], the conventional types may be discontented since RGV maintains the thought with which he commenced the film: Underworld never dies, it merely changes form.

Having said that, I'd like to add that SATYA-2 has several nail-biting episodes that keep you completely hooked. Also, to give the credit where it's due, the writer does not suffer from SATYA hangover, which is a plus. The scenes are innovative, the screenplay is entrancing for most parts and the sequence of events keeps you drawn to the on-screen proceedings. The background score is effectual, while the cinematography captures the tension adroitly.

Puneet Singh Ratn brings RGV's vision to life. He springs a surprise, essaying a complex part with certainty. Furthermore, he looks intense enough for the part. Anaika [as Chitra] exudes vulnerability, but the conviction is lacking in her performance. Mahesh Thakur is top notch. Aradhna [as Special] leaves an impact. Amitriyaan [as Naara] is expressive enough. He does very well.

Raj Premi [as RK] is wonderful, while Amal Sehrawat [portraying his son TK] stands out in the sequence when he persuades his father to defy Satya. Ashok Samarth [as Solomon] is first-rate. Kaushal Kapoor [as Purshottam] delivers a power-packed performance. Mrunal Jain is proficient in a brief role.

On the whole, SATYA-2 may not be RGV's best, but there's no denying that it has the right elements that make a quintessential gangster film. However, the KRRISH-3 wave coupled with the arrival of another Superhero film [THOR: THE DARK WORLD] may affect its business prospects.

Rating:***

http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/moviemicro/criticreview/id/566244 

Singh Saab The Great by Taran Adarsh!

There's a spate of desi entertainers of late. All starring top league actors and helmed by reputable names. Now Anil Sharma, whose body of work consists of desi entertainers like HUKUMAT, ELAAN-E-JUNG, FARISHTAY, TEHELKA, GADAR - EK PREM KATHA, APNE and VEER, helms yet another big ticket film with a desi angle to it -- SINGH SAAB THE GREAT.

When Anil Sharma joins hands with Sunny Deol -- the jodi has delivered one of the biggest hits of Hindi cinema in GADAR - EK PREM KATHA -- one expects the duo to recreate the epic success in their new outing. Clapworthy dialogue, fiery confrontations, hi-octane drama and of course, Sunny's dhaai kilo ka haath to vanquish the oppressors... the mandatory requirements have to be in place. And SINGH SAAB THE GREAT has it all in trademark Anil Sharma style.

SINGH SAAB THE GREAT narrates the story of Singh Saab [Sunny Deol], an honest Collector, who believes in carrying out his duties diligently. However, the crooked and shady Bhoodev [Prakash Raj] falsely implicates him in a case of bribery and gets him imprisoned. Even though Singh Saab is seething with anger, he decides to settle scores with Bhoodev differently, by bringing about change instead of revenge [badla nahin badlaav]. The ground is set for a confrontation between the honest and corrupt forces…

With not much to look to forward to in the storyline, the challenge lies in making the screenplay captivating and spellbinding and Anil Sharma and writer Shaktimaan attempt to package the film with ingredients that connect instantly with the masses. The character portrayed by Sunny is like any other character we may have witnessed in several films, but when Sunny roars, bashes the villain black and blue or pulls a tree with its roots, it appears bona fide. The larger than life character suits him and Anil Sharma and Shaktimaan make sure they capitalize on this actuality.

Anil Sharma's movies, generally, have an undercurrent of emotions. In fact, his biggest victories have stressed on emotions [his directorial debut SHRADDHANJALI, GADAR and APNE in particular] and SINGH SAAB THE GREAT too maintains an iron grip on emotions and sentiments. Like GADAR, the emotional chord is between the couple [Sunny-Urvashi Rautela] and also between the brother-sister [Sunny-Anjali Abrol] this time. But what weighs the film down is the conflict with the antagonist. It's predictable and one feels that the issue of an honest citizen waging a war against the corrupt has been done to death. Sure, a few confrontations are fiery, especially the one when Sunny and Prakash Raj meet for the first time or the one when Sunny throws Prakash Raj in the fire, but the sting operation and the fight to finish towards the climax tend to get monotonous. Besides, the intimate scenes between Sunny and Urvashi look odd after a point.

SINGH SAAB THE GREAT overstays its welcome by a good 10/15 minutes. A crisp, concise edit would've only facilitated a solid punch. The soundtrack tilts heavily towards the Punjabi flavor, with the theme song staying on your lips. It's full of vigour and vivacity. 'Daaru Bandh Kal Se' [which has surprise cameos by Dharmendra and Bobby Deol] is hummable and gels well in the context of things. Dialogue are sure to be loved by the strata of audience they are targeted at [the masses]. In fact, the single screen audience in particular will relish and applaud the jibes and retorts for certain.

Sunny Deol looks most fitting for the part. Also, the certainty and conviction with which he interprets his character is worthy of note. In addition, like I stated earlier, he looks most apt for roles where he has to illustrate muscle power. The masses should go into raptures as he delivers dynamic dialogue in his distinctive trademark style. Enacting the role of a news reporter, Amrita Rao manages to leave a strong impact, despite the fact that the film belongs to Sunny. Urvashi Rautela looks photogenic and though she's a first-timer, she seems confident in several sequences. Post WANTED and SINGHAM, Prakash Raj seems to be getting typecast in similar roles. Not his fault, but I wish to add that the gifted actor enacts his part with gusto and fervor. He matches Sunny at every step. Anjali Abrol does well.

Johny Lever is as lively as ever. Rajit Kapoor, Sanjay Mishra, Yashpal Sharma and Manoj Pahwa don't get much scope to put across their talent. Shahbaaz Khan appears in a cameo. The kid enacting the part of Sunny's nephew is cute.

On the whole, SINGH SAAB THE GREAT is atypical Sunny Deol film that a section of the audience still enjoys. The clapworthy dialogue, the raw appeal, the undercurrent of emotions and of course, the dhaai kilo ka haath should appeal to those who relish desi fares, especially the single screen audience.

Rating:***1/2

http://www.bollywoodhungama.com/moviemicro/criticreview/id/549451 

Gori Tere pyar Mein Review from Now running!

The tagline of the film says only 'Only love can bridge the gap'. No, there isn't any sub-textual deep meaning behind this. A hoity-toity self centered man Sriram (Imran Khan) chases his love of life Dia (Kareena Kapoor) all the way till a village and the only way he can get her to come with him is to make a bridge!

The story of the film is as little as the synopsis or even the tagline could've sufficed for the actual story of the film but the second time director Punit Malhotra stretches it to 2hours and more adding banal plots and sequences to add weight to his script.

Gori Tere Pyar Mein Pictures   37 Pictures

29 More Movie Stills. Click to View All

You literally have the first half of the film establishing how selfish his main protagonist is with repetitive instances, an image which could be earned for Sriram in a montage sequence itself. Similar is the case of his love story too, there's enough screen time given to establish that both Sriram and Dia have contrasting personalities.

What's worse, to a plot which is threadbare, the maker forcefully inserts a non-linear narrative with the insertion of Shraddha Kapoor's character in the film.

If you think it's only the story that leaves you in a comatose position then you're wrong, this reviewer has been through much worse - Imran Khan. The actor comes back to the genre he started with, rom-com, but fairs much worse than his prior films as well. He desperately tries to act funny or emotional throughout the film but fails at both. Kareena on the other hand tries to cover up for the lack of her co-star and ends up acting doubly.

In terms of production quality too Dharma Productions film disappoints this time around for the set up of the village appears highly caricaturish and the film also has continuity flaws.

This review could go on and on about the shortcomings for Gori Tere Pyaar Mein which clearly was made with fun, frolic and laxity but it should suffice to state that the film is one of the weakest from the Dharma camp in a long while and an easy skip too lest you are Imran or Kareena fans.

Rating *

http://www.nowrunning.com/movie/11999/bollywood.hindi/gori-tere-pyar-mein/4471/review.htm

Singh Saab The Great Reviews.

Rating:**

Let's get one thing straight. If you haven't been a fan of Sunny Deol superhits like Ghatak, Ghayal, Gaddar and more, if you don't have his famous dialogues right from dhai kilo ka haath or tareek pe tareek memorized or if you don't like the high-octane raw, brawny action drama then Singh Saab The Great isn't a film for you.
The movie revolves around the morally upright government official Saranjeet Singh (Sunny Deol) who works as a collector in a small town of UP. Being a proponent of good deeds, Saranjeet Singh always stands in the way of corruption and takes on corrupt officials who are plaguing the nation. He goes to all lengths to restore truth and honesty even if it means putting his and his family's life at stake.

Singh Saab The Great Pictures   32 Pictures

23 More Movie Stills. Click to View All

Singh Saab The Great scores purely for rooting for our desi hero. Instead of adapting or being inspired by the Hollywood action flicks, the movie brings back the times of an underdog rising to fight for his, his family and his nation's pride.
There couldn't have been another actor more befitting to this story than Sunny Deol. His comeback to the action mode is brilliant. But the actor fails in emoting romantic sequences as endearingly as he used to in the past. The rust on his acting prowess, owing to the gap that came about, can easily be seen. Having a teenage debutante (Urvashi Rautela) opposite him only makes matters worse for the gap in age makes for a bad cinematic experience.
It's after long that one finds Prakash Raj playing a negative role menacingly and not making it appear like the million others he has played in the formula films of Bollywood. The battle between both Deol and Raj has its gripping moments.
Amrita Rao as a journalist who is chronicling the life of Singh Saab is average at best and doesn't add any value to the story.
SSTG has it all going for it except that the film (treatment-wise) comes a few years delayed for its time. Despite having its moments, there are portions in the film which remind you of '80s cinema. Even the production quality is jaded and gives the film a tripe feeling. Filmmaker Anil Sharma takes a very old school approach in story-telling which is decorated garishly with loud background score and melodramatic sequences.
To sum it up, Singh Saab The Great is a complete single screen film for Sunny Deol fans who are yearning to see him back in action. For the others it's just another masala entertainer.

http://www.nowrunning.com/movie/10910/bollywood.hindi/singh-saab-the-great/4472/review.htm

Singh Saab The Great Rediff Review.

Sunny Deol is reason enough for most of us to watch Singh Saab The Great, writes Paloma Sharma.

It must be understood that Singh Saab The Great is Sunny Deol's comeback vehicle. So if you're not a fan of the dhai kilo ka haath, this film is not for you.

However, if you (much like myself) have the entire tareek pe tareek dialogue memorised, then you will regret missing out on Singh Saab the Great. It was nice to watch a Bollywood film that's not a Hollywood film in disguise, starring an Indian star cast. One can appreciate that the director of the film, Anil Sharma, at least had a vision for his film -- even if it was a confused one. Singh Saab The Great attempts to tell the tale of a collector, who valued his honesty, integrity and pride more than anything else, and the price he had to pay for telling the truth.

The film starts off quite well. Amrita Rao, who plays a pesky, truth-seeking journalist, documents her experiences with Singh Saab (Sunny Deol).

Singh Saab is a social worker of sorts, who is spearheading an Anna Hazare style movement called People's Beat and trying to change things at a grassroot level.

While touring villages in North India, Singh Saab comes to a quaint little hamlet ruled by the ruthless Bhudev, where some dark secrets of Singh Saab's past are buried.

Singh Saab's character finds strong roots in Sardar Shivsingh from Premchand's Sajjanta ka Dand and Deol brings great intensity to the role. However, it becomes a tad awkward to watch him romance his teenage bride Minnie (played by Urvashi Rautela).

Rautela, on her part, does nothing but glance seductively, laugh at her husband's silly attempts to woo her and get mad at him for pretty much everything. She also makes sure she's showing enough back for Deol to kiss every two minutes in the first half of the film. Although she's the motivation behind all of Singh Saab's trials, she gets reduced to a glamourized prop.

Amrita Rao's Hindi heartland accent is downright annoying.

For the first time since Singham, Prakash Raj has shown that evil spark. Although his character Bhudev is very similar to Jaykant Shikre, he brings a different flavour to it. Bhudev is absolutely despicable but you soften up to him when you see his attachment to his daughter.

The first half of Singh Saab the Great is enjoyable but overshadowed by the loud, sometimes nonsensical music. The other half is unnecessarily gory and overshadowed by even louder and more nonsensical music.

Although I appreciate that the makers of Singh Saab the Great tried to make a socially conscious and relevant film, they got pulled into giving a sermon instead.

Singh Saab the Great's tragic flaw is that it preaches against crimes that stem out of the two things out of which its morals stem -- religion and patriarchy.

On one hand, Singh Saab beats the living daylights out of villains who adulterate food, and on the other, he tells a man who was about to disfigure a girl's face with acid to woo her with love if he truly loves her. So your friendly neighbourhood acid attacker goes scot free.

Meanwhile, Singh Saab who slaps Bhudev for suggesting that Singh Saab's sister, Guddi/Simar, go into prostitution, Singh Saab has no issues dancing with (and how I hate to use the word) an item girl to a song with lyrics that go something like 'khaike palang tod paan tune le li meri jaan'.

But it's not over yet.

Brace yourselves for a long-ish soliloquy about religion and righteousness as the hero slays the villain.

Singh Saab the Great has its moments. But more importantly, it has Sunny Deol and that is reason enough for most of us to watch this film.

Rediff Rating: **

Actual Review