Amitabh-Aamir’s ‘Thugs of Hindostan’: Review
Although performance of the two titans of Bollywood was appreciated, the film fails on many other aspects
‘Thugs of Hindostan’ is this year’s big release. The film, which features two stalwarts of Bollywood, Aamir Khan and Amitabh Bachchan, hit the screen on the occasion of Diwali . While effort of the two big actors in the film have been praised, the film has not received encouraging movie reviews.
Plot of the film: Set in the late 1700s, a band of thugs lead by Khudabaksh Azaad, essayed by Amitabh Bachchan, tries to free Hindostan (the Indian subcontinent) from the British colonisers. A double-crossing trickster Firangi played by Aamir Khan, is sent in by the British, in an attempt to foil the attempt.
The film has two Bollywood titans and there is a high chance one could overshadow the other. But both the actors are at their best in the film. Bachchan’s steadfast and stoic Azaad and Khan’s wiley and colourful Firangi are the perfect foil for each other as characters on opposite ends of the moral spectrum. Khan’s character seems as the anti-hero, whose intentions are never quite clear. However, ultimately both of the characters find common ground in the greater goal of freedom for the Indian subcontinent from their oppressors. Of course, while the performances of Khan and Bachchan attracted praise, the direction and screenplay was criticised.
Production design and cinematography of the film is good though the story is predictable. The visual effects are commendable.
Many are of the opinion that Aamir’s actions are the main element in the film to keep the audience hooked.
On the other hand Bachchan’s commanding presence is undeniable as he gets the best action sequences, sword fights and catchy one-liners.
The film is directed by Vijay Krishna Acharya, who is best known for his work on the action-adventure Dhoom series. Katrina Kaif plays the courtesan Suraiyya in the film. Of course her role is reduced to that of “item song” girl yet again.
With many action sequences playing out at sea and rebellious thugs fighting against the East India Company, we can say the film is synonymous to the Hollywood film ‘Pirates of the Caribbean’. Yet, ‘Thugs Of Hindostan’ has its own scoring points and it is one of Bollywood’s best films.
Ms Kalinga