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Movie Review: ONCE UPON A TIME IN MUMBAAI by FENIL SETA
Jul 31st
Most of the gangster films that we have seen in Bollywood have all been inspired from real men of underworld. And when makers of Once Upon A Time in Mumbaai give a supposed indication that the film is a kind of biopic on the 2 famous dons, one might wonder-what will this film show that we haven’t seen or don’t know? And as expected, Once Upon A Time in Mumbaai is to a great extent a been-there-done-that affair. However, still it makes for a riveting watch thanks to the brilliant performances and direction and a lot more factors! More about it later!
The story of the movie: The film is set in Bombay of 70s. Sultan Mirza (Ajay Devgn) is a powerful man but on the wrong side of the law. For the poor, he was messiah; for the cops, he’s a smuggler who should be put behind bars and for the bhai-log of Mumbai, he’s the mediator and advisor. Unlike other goons, Sultan doesn’t believe much in bloodshed and wants peace to remain on the streets of the city. He has found a love interest too, Rehana (Kangna Ranaut), a rising superstar of Bollywood. Enters Shoaib Khan (Emraan Hashmi), a ruthless roadside ruffian who gets included in Sultan’s gang. Little does Sultan know that this could be his most fatal mistake!
The first striking and unique feature that you’ll notice about Once Upon A Time in Mumbaai is Ajay’s brilliant characterization which is so different from the rest of the gangsters we have seen on celluloid. Here’s a man who is so bloody rich but yet is always there to help the poor! Here’s a man who is ready to smuggle anything into the city except things which are morally wrong to consume! Here’s a man whose ways of getting things done are so smart and so harmless! Hats off to Sultan Mirza!
The entire film is told from the eyes of Inspector Agnel Wilson (Randeep Hooda). The movie gets on track as soon as the flashback commences. The beginning scenes where Ajay removes the tracks and the other where he divides the city among the bhais were brilliant and set the mood. From here, the film hops on a cliché track and this lasts till the end. However, you won’t mind as every second, there’s something or the other happening in the film that’ll keep you gripped!
One won’t have any complaints with the first hour. However, the second half has some share of flaws. The entire hooch episode could have been better treated. The climax was predictable but no doubt leaves a mark. However, the film ends without mentioning what happens to the significant characters of the film later. Also, showing an important character of the film in the last scene 18 years later with no change in his looks and features seemed too unbelievable. Notwithstanding all the glitches, the film gives a satisfying experience and that’s what matters!
There’s no doubt that the best performer in the film is none other than Ajay Devgn! Essaying a gangsta role is never easy but Ajay have done it twice (earlier in Company) and both performances are so drastically different from each other! An achievement indeed! Once Upon A Time in Mumbaai is surely another feather in Ajay’s cap! Keep rocking! Emraan Hashmi fails to reach Ajay’s level but still impresses with a rocking performance! His eyes and his expressions oozed evil which was what his character was all about! It was great to see him in full form after a long long time. And the good news is-he’ll soon be seen in 3 films-Crook, Raftaar 24×7 and Dil To Bachcha Hai Ji! Emraan’s face, rejoice!
Special mention should also be made of the kiddos who played kid Ajay-Emraan. Both of them had features which were exactly like two actors and hence it seemed authentic! Kangna Ranaut looks ravishing and as usual gives a top notch performance. The 70s-centric costumes given to her looked beautiful on her! Prachi Desai (as Mumtaz) does a fine job. However, her character doesn’t have much to do in the film. Randeep Hooda gives a stupendous performance. Bollywood is surely going to notice this neglected actor from now on! The one who plays Emraan’s father was terrific. Avtar Gill plays his part well. Gauhar Khan was awesome in the retro item track.
Pritam’s music is energetic and easily one of his finest works! Tum Jo Aaye is the best song of the lot followed by Pee Loon. I Am In Love is missing from the film! Parda, the item song, is beautifully picturised while Babu Rao gives a nice 70s feel!
Aseem Mishra’s cinematography was perfect. Nitin Desai’s art direction impresses a lot! The entire film is given a 70s touch thanks to him. Most of the scenes are smartly shot in the colonial areas of South Mumbai (which haven’t changed much since 70s). However, the sets (esp the one in Gauhar’s song) were brilliant and surely worth appreciating!
Rajat Aroraa wrote the story, screenplay and dialogue. Story is nothing new and something we all have seen in many films before. However, the screenplay was terrific and as mentioned before, the characters were too good. Dialogues were very sharp and one of the best things about the film. However, there was no need of giving such dramatic dialogues to the cop (Randeep). It just didn’t suit at all!
Finally, Milan Luthria’s direction was splendid! Although not his best work (Taxi No 9211 is), he should be appreciated for coming up with such a great film which has such an ordinary story! Great going and waiting for your next!
Some of the best scenes:
1. Sultan removes the rail tracks
2. Sultan divides the city among the ‘bhais’
3. Sultan meets Rehana for the first time and in the restaurant
4. Rehana gives gifts for Sultan
5. Shoaib’s childhood
6. Sultan at Shoaib’s inauguration
7. Rehana traps Agnel
8. The intermission point
9. Sultan burns the drugs
10. Sultan at Delhi
11. Sultan’s confronts Shoaib
12. The climax
On the whole, Once Upon A Time in Mumbaai, inspite of having an ordinary storyline, gives the viewer a great time! Watch it for Ajay, well-shot scenes and the retro look!
My rating-*** ½ out of 5!
Movie Review: ONCE UPON A TIME IN MUMBAAI by TARAN ADARSH
Jul 26th
By Taran Adarsh, July 26, 2010 – 13:29 IST
The fascination with gangster movies has been immense worldwide. On this side of the Atlantic, several gangster films have left giant footprints on the sands of time. Films like DEEWAAR [Yash Chopra], DHARMATMA [Feroz Khan], NAYAKAN [Mani Ratnam], ANGAAR [Shashilal Nair], PARINDA [Vidhu Vinod Chopra], AGNEEPATH [Mukul Anand], SATYA and COMPANY [Ramgopal Varma], VAASTAV [Mahesh Manjrekar], GANGSTER [Anurag Basu], D [Vishram Sawant] and SHOOTOUT AT LOKHANDWALA [Apoorva Lakhia] have tremendous recall value to this day.
ONCE UPON A TIME IN MUMBAAI recreates an era that so many of us have left behind and for those who arrived on this planet post 80s, I am sure, they must have visited the era through some medium or the other, mainly movies and internet or during their academic careers.
| BY BOLLYWOOD HUNGAMA.COM |
ONCE UPON A TIME IN MUMBAAI is not part of history, but it attempts to portray on celluloid tales that are now considered legendary, that continue to make news to this date. Of course, the disclaimer claims that it bears no resemblance to a particular person, but you can’t help but draw parallels with real-life characters. It could be a coincidence, though!
ONCE UPON A TIME IN MUMBAAI is a fascinating story that talks of how the mafia came into force for the first time in Mumbai. A thriller that depicts the crime scenario in Mumbai during the 70s and 80s. The rise to power of two young boys, in different age-groups, who grew up to ‘rule’ the streets of Mumbai.
Since there’s tremendous speculation in the media that ONCE UPON A TIME IN MUMBAAI chronicles the lives of Haji Mastan and Dawood Ibrahim, the curiosity to watch the film increases manifold. Of course, I am no one to comment if it’s actually based on their lives or merely borrows a few incidents from their lives or is pure fiction, but as a cinematic experience, I couldn’t help getting transported to the bygone era, getting sucked into a world I had no clue of.
Besides the gangster chapter, one enjoys this film also because of its riveting drama and the power play. It could’ve been set anywhere, in the corporate world, in politics, in the film industry. Anywhere. The rise and subsequent fall of the King and the emergence of the Prince as the super power is what makes this film a compelling watch. The icing on the cake is the magical and lilting song compositions that are juxtaposed so beautifully in the goings-on. On the sidelines of the power play, a game of hearts is being played and that’s what makes ONCE UPON A TIME IN MUMBAAI a wholesome movie experience.
Final word? ONCE UPON A TIME IN MUMBAAI is not to be missed. Set everything aside this coming weekend and watch this one. Strongly recommended!
The film, set primarily in 1970s Mumbai, follows the rise of Sultan Mirza [Ajay Devgn] and the conflict that ensues, when his protégé Shoaib Khan [Emraan Hashmi] challenges his supremacy and usurps power to rule the murky underbelly of Mumbai.
ONCE UPON A TIME IN MUMBAAI is a power-packed drama that makes you thirst for more. You rewind to an era of romance, smuggling, cabaret and mafia, but director Milan Luthria and writer Rajat Aroraa ensure that there’s no sleaze or bloodshed-n-gore. In fact, there’s hardly any violent sequence in the movie, except for one when Ajay hammers a cop during a naaka-bandi.
ONCE UPON A TIME IN MUMBAAI is not a biopic, but narrates the story through the eyes of a police officer [Randeep Hooda], who traces the changing face of the Mumbai underworld. The screenplay encompasses several moments that may compel you to draw parallels with real life, but talking strictly from the movie-going point of view, it satiates you completely. In fact, the writing is cohesive, smart and watertight and there’s never a dull moment. Besides, there’s no time to think whether it’s factual or loosely based on someone’s life or a work of fiction.
As I look back and recall the movie, a number of sequences flash across my mind. Note the sequence when Ajay divides the city amongst gangsters… The train sequence at the very start… The introduction of Emraan Hashmi’s character… Randeep Hooda’s landing on a film set and confiscating the equipment… The subsequent sequence, when Randeep is framed for accepting bribe… The romantic moments between Emraan and Prachi in the jewellery shop… Emraan starting his business and the confrontation that ensues between Ajay and Randeep… The showdown between Ajay and Emraan, with Ajay slapping Emraan in full public view… The conclusion to the story is equally novel. It stays in your memory and sets you thinking.
On the flipside, the story begins with Randeep attempting suicide, but the writer should’ve cited the reason that prompted him to take that drastic step. Sure, there’s a mention at the start, but it doesn’t register well. Also, you are keen to know the chain of events that drove Randeep to suicide. Also, the pace slackens in the middle of the second hour, but picks up dramatically when Ajay returns from Delhi and confronts Emraan. Besides, how I wish the film had a shorter, mass appealing Hindi title to attract more eyeballs and a big jump in footfalls [at single screens and smaller centres mainly] for a mass appealing subject like this.
This is director Milan Luthria’s best work to date, no two opinions on that. Recreating the bygone era is tough and the director, the writer and the art director [Nitin Chandrakant Desai] deserve brownie points for giving the film that authentic feel. In fact, the film wears a chic retro look throughout. Even otherwise, Milan’s handling of the subject material is exemplary. This film is sure to catapult him to the top league. Rajat Aroraa’s screenplay is powerful and engaging. The writer marries heavy-duty drama and subtle and delicate emotions beautifully. I would like to make a special note of the dialogue, also penned by Rajat Aroraa, which are simply fantastic. In fact, the dialogue writing is such it elevates even an ordinary sequence to great levels. One rarely comes across such potent dialogue in today’s times.
Pritam’s music is another ace. Injecting songs and that too a terrific soundtrack in a gangster film is tough. He did it in GANGSTER. He does it again in ONCE UPON A TIME IN MUMBAAI. ‘Pee Loon’, ‘Tum Jo Aaye’ and the remix of APNA DESH track are super compositions, which are also placed appropriately in the plotline. Cinematography [Aseem Mishra] captures the look to perfection. Akiv Ali’s editing is sharp.
ONCE UPON A TIME IN MUMBAAI is embellished with fantastic performances. Ajay Devgn is splendid as Sultan. The actor had enacted a similar role in COMPANY, but it must be said that his interpretation is so different in ONCE UPON A TIME IN MUMBAAI. He adds so much depth to the character, which only goes to prove his range and versatility. This is, without a trace of doubt, Ajay’s finest work so far. Emraan Hashmi is brilliant as the power greedy, wildly ambitious rebel. He plays the dark character to perfection. He’s incredible in the penultimate moments of the film in particular. Besides carrying the look to perfection, Emraan is sure to break-free from the lover boy, serial kisser image with this film.
Kangna Ranaut is extremely natural and performs very well. Also, she brings so much of sensuality and glamour to her character [an actress of the 70s]. In fact, Ajay and Kangna make a wonderful on-screen pair. Prachi Desai is a bundle of talent who proves her mettle yet again. She’s proficient in emotional scenes and sizzles in the BOBBY song-sequence. Besides, the chemistry between Emraan and Prachi is exciting. Randeep Hooda is top notch. Even though the film belongs to Ajay and Emraan, Randeep makes his presence felt with a powerful performance. This film should prove to be the turning point in his career.
Avtar Gill [as Home Minister] is good. Naved Aslam [as Patrick, Ajay's trusted lieutenant] is perfect. Mehul Bhojak [as Emraan's friend Javed] is competent. Ravi Khanwilkar [as Vardhan] is satisfactory. Gauhar Khan sizzles in the remix track.
On the whole, ONCE UPON A TIME IN MUMBAAI is an extremely well-made film that lingers in your memory. The realism coupled with stellar direction, power-packed writing, exceptional performances and ear-pleasing tunes are its trump cards. An outstanding cinematic experience!
Movie Review: NEW YORK by FENIL SETA
Jun 28th
Although Yash Raj Films is considered by many as a production house churning out only romantic and goody-goody films, the fact is that they too have taken the less-trodden path and came up with fantastic and meaningful hatke films (Kabul Express and Chak De! India are the classic examples). Their new offering, New York, too is another hatke flick from this production house. What is impressive about New York is its narrative-it deals with serious topics like terrorism and post-9/11 scenario but at the same time, its impact doesn’t limit itself only to niche audiences. It’s a meaningful film, which caters to all kinds of audiences. And that’s its biggest achievement!
The story of the movie: Omar (Neil Mukesh) arrives at New York to pursue a Master’s Degree at New York State University. Here he meets Sameer aka Sam (John Abraham) and Maya (Katrina Kaif) who become his best buddies. Time flies fast and it was soon time for college to get over. At this point of time, the 9/11 attack occurs which forever changes the lives of these three friends. How this incident affects them adversely and what steps they take to resurrect is what the film is about.
New York strikes a fine balance-it is dealt with maturity and yet manages to strike a chord with audiences of all ages. It is not at all formulaic and the story is narrated in a not-so-usual and interesting style. Also the film doesn’t waste time at all-the story begins from the first scene itself. There are no unnecessary songs, no unwanted scenes-the focus is just on the three main characters.
There are several scenes in the film that would remain etched in one’s mind. The most unforgettable sequence of the film is undoubtedly John Abraham’s flashback. This wonderfully shot and enacted scene will astonish everyone for sure. Even globally acclaimed Khuda Kay Liye failed to give such an outstanding description of the torture cells.
The only flaw was that the film, particularly in the 2nd half, got a little bit confusing at places but still this can be overlooked. However, the film succeeds in giving a powerful message and also an excellent insight about the chaotic situation post 9/11 created by the Bush administration. It also raises a question about the terrorists who were responsible for the 9/11 attacks-what did they achieve by those cowardly attacks which they considered as great? In the name of jihad, they ended up devastating the lives of so many people in US who were detained as terrorist suspects.
The climax of the film may seem unacceptable to many. However, the final scene of the film is very impressive.
All the four main actors of the film manage to give one of the best performances of their respective careers! No matter how hard John Abraham tried to give a brilliant performance in the past, he always ended up receiving appreciation for his fab body. This was evident especially during Dostana. However for New York, he would surely be liked by everyone for his brilliant performance only! He rocks the screen from the first scene itself and manages to give a praiseworthy performance. Watch out for him in the torture scenes and in the climax. Keep rocking, John!
As expected, Neil Mukesh gives yet another outstanding performance after Johnny Gaddaar! In fact, it was Neil who dominates the first half and does a great job. Like John, he too impresses a lot in the climax. Katrina Kaif surprises! She was always accused of not being to able to act and speak in Hindi. Post-New York, she would be considered not only as a glam-doll but also as a wonderful actor.
Irrfan Khan as FBI Agent Roshan as usual comes up with an outstanding performance. He also provides some comic moments in between! Nowaz, who played Shahana Goswami’s husband in Firaaq, has a small but an important role in the film and he does a fine job.
Pritam’s music is good, but not as great as his other works. Two songs stand out-Hai Junoon and Mere Sang. In addition, the film also has two instrumentals composed by Julius Packiam which are intriguing and haunting. Mere Sang is probably one of the best picturised songs of the year. Watch out for the scene in the song when John is walking down the street and a group of protestors pass by carrying textual posters of ‘Buck Fush’!
Aseem Mishra’s cinematography was perfect. The lensman performs better in the detention scenes. Rameshwar Bhagat’s editing was flawless.
Aditya Chopra surprises as the writer of the film. It’s great to see a person like him coming up with such out-of-the-box stories. Sandeep Shrivastava, who earlier wrote the screenplay of Ab Tak Chappan, excels through his screenplay and dialogues. Screenplay was unique since the film doesn’t pace ahead in the typical way.
Kabir Khan had already proved himself with his first feature film, Kabul Express. However, the film failed to do a terrific job at the BO since it was more of a docu-drama. However, in New York, he manages to come up with a sensitive, intelligent film that caters to a large audience.
Some of the best scenes of the film:
1. Omar detained by Roshan
2. Sam’s entry
3. The 9/11 attack
4. The intermission point
5. Sam’s flashback
6. The song ‘Mere Sang’
7. All scenes of Nowaz
8. The last 20 minutes of the film
On the whole, New York is a brilliant film to say the least. It not only gives a message, but throws a light on the wrong-doings of the Bush administration which devastated the lives of many. At the same time, it raises many questions. Brilliantly executed, wonderfully performed, New York will surely be remembered for a long time!
My rating-**** out of 5!
