By: Danish Lakdawalaa
Set in 1971 during the tense situation between India and Pakistan, Raazi is based on Harinder Sikka's novel 'Calling Sehmat' which is about the daughter of a spy who strategically becomes the daughter-in-law of an opposing spy. Director Meghna Gulzar has done such an astounding job that even for a minute you will not flip your eyes & your focus, interest and excitement remains intact throughout the film.
Story revolves around Sehmat played by Alia. Following the footsteps of her father, Alia (as Sehmat) takes the decision to turn into a spy. Ironically Sehmat means Raazi too. The title is spot on. Sehmat, a girl who is scared of blood is asked to go undercover and gather/provide exclusive information to her country. Her transition from an innocent girl to a determined spy is subtle and honest. The way she trains herself on screen and maintains a certain duality in her performance, itself speaks volumes about her acting. Alia literally holds you and keeps you immensely worried for Sehmat throughout.
Screenplay is written exceedingly well keeping the thriller format in mind. There are many scenes which will blow you away, shake you apart and yet the show stealer Alia continue to have her grip on you. This one is completely her film. I see many awards coming her way! This film isn't about action sequences, masala entertainer or even item songs, it works purely due to content + performances. It also has a flavor of patriotism. 'Aye vatan' song is well choreographed. Dialogues are well written and the cinematography is top rated, staying in line with the overall feel of the film. Vicky Kaushal as Iqbal holds his ground equally well as her husband and shines brightly in the second half. Rest of the cast like Sehmat's father played by Rajit Kapoor, an Indian spy who believes 'vatan ke aage kuch nahi' along with Shishir Sharma who plays Iqbal's father, is brilliant with in their scope. This espionage spy thriller will grow on you, keep you tensed throughout and will leave you thoroughly satisfied. Watch out for an intense climax. I will go with 4/5. Do watch it!
Screenplay is written exceedingly well keeping the thriller format in mind. There are many scenes which will blow you away, shake you apart and yet the show stealer Alia continue to have her grip on you. This one is completely her film. I see many awards coming her way! This film isn't about action sequences, masala entertainer or even item songs, it works purely due to content + performances. It also has a flavor of patriotism. 'Aye vatan' song is well choreographed. Dialogues are well written and the cinematography is top rated, staying in line with the overall feel of the film. Vicky Kaushal as Iqbal holds his ground equally well as her husband and shines brightly in the second half. Rest of the cast like Sehmat's father played by Rajit Kapoor, an Indian spy who believes 'vatan ke aage kuch nahi' along with Shishir Sharma who plays Iqbal's father, is brilliant with in their scope. This espionage spy thriller will grow on you, keep you tensed throughout and will leave you thoroughly satisfied. Watch out for an intense climax. I will go with 4/5. Do watch it!
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