Friday 29 June 2018

SANJU MOVIE REVIEW

Sanjay Dutt's life has been a string of inspiring but mostly traumatic events that influenced not just him but almost everyone associated with him. Right from the phase of drug addiction to the charges of terrorism and his eventual imprisonment, it is conspicuous why Hirani and co-writer Abhijat Joshi found his story worthy of a cinematic translation, notwithstanding the fact that Dutt was, hitherto, a part of every film of Hirani (except 3 idiots). It surely isn't an easy story to tell and the makers do a fine job of not ultimately portraying the character as a victim of circumstances, but instead very categorically delving into the controversial aspects of his life like his drug addiction and the possession of arms just to name a few.

But make no mistake, the film has the Hirani stamp all over it. Opting for a more light hearted tone, the focus is on reinforcing the importance of human relationships and values over anything else. Starting on a rather uneven note, the film finds its ground at around half an hour into it and it is these portions where Hirani reveals his magical skills in getting the audience deeply involved in his screenplay as we see Sanju's life fall apart like a pack of cards. In fact, I was so emotionally charged at this point that I wished the film didn't have an intermission break.

Alas, like most of his previous films, the break doesn't bode well for the second half. From here on, despite interesting ideas about superficial journalism and revealing insights into his life post charges of terrorism, I was never fully invested in the screenplay and its formulaic approach. The characterization becomes sketchy, conflicts are too conveniently resolved and the climax is a bit of let down.

Despite the shortcomings, the film is balanced by a career-best performance by Ranbir Kapoor, who not merely imitates but lives the life of Sanjay Dutt through his empathetic portrayal. Never appearing caricaturish or seeming to go off track, his catches the pulse of the character with perfection. Also, Vicky Kaushal deserves special mention for making his presence felt throughout the film with a pretty solid performance.

Much like Dutt's life, the film has many highs and lows, but it deserves a watch for the terrific first half and the gifted Ranbir Kapoor.

1 comment:

  1. As always, very very well analysed and articulated :)

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