A movie which can outweigh any big blockbuster
of the year, Laal kaptaan was something new and innovative.
The movie is set in 18th century, the British have already started strengthening their hold on India. There is a Naga Sadhu (Saif Ali) who is known as Gusain, he in modern day will be described as a contract killer, a skilled fighter. He is assigned by Noor bai to kill Rehmat Khan(Manav Vij) with whom he shares a history and desperately wants to avenge his past. On the other hand Marathas are also looking for the same rehmat khan as he has their treasure. The Marathas are helped by Deepak Dobriyal who searches by smelling. Rehmat Khan with his troop is running. It is a suspense revenge drama.
Acting wise Deepak dobriyal is superior than any other actor. He has made his character alive, his character has not been penned down greatly, it lacks depth but that man is such an amazing actor that these factors goes in vain and you just enjoy that promising performance.
Saif Ali Khan also lacked the depth in character but he worked it out. The only problem was his character lacked the accent which doesn't helps you travel back to that time. But Saif was promising, his action sequences are worth watching. His eyes has that frustration of ending a long lived revenge. His persona has that fear and wiseness which surrounds a Sadhu.
Manav Vij did a great job. Others were good too.
The best part of the movie was it's camera work and action sequences. If you are an observer you will also find its depiction of history accurate, that how British divided the unity of this country. How emperors and Kings used religion as a tool for securing their throne.
The worst of all could be it's pace. The movie is sluggish and at times you might get bored. There is a lot of meaningless wandering but if you appreciate the beauty of locations then it could be sufficed. The movie has been shot in very haunting and beautiful locations.
This movie was innovative and deserved to be a Hit. At times it will remind you of Coen Brother's Ballad, No country. But it is different. A must watch. I believe in coming 20 years this movie will be labelled as a cult classic.