Review of Shootout at Lokhandwala (2007) by Ankit J — 05 Jun 2007

I wasn't particularly excited about this film based on the promos, but the opening in India based on the same has been amazing! Best opening of 2007 so far! I's doing big business in India, however personally I wouldn't be too enthusiastic about recommending it.

It's positives - it's well-directed, and I like the sepia-style of the scenes - it really suits the mood of the film and enhances the Mumbai setting. Vivek Oberoi is great - he excels in Gangster roles (suits him way more than the loverboy films he's done, which have largely fallen flat at the box-office). The gangster characters are very well formed - I found myself really sympathising with the bad guys, and detesting the police-wallahs! The concept of the film is great (and was probably lifted from a Hollywood movies) - the 3 police officers having to account for their actions introduces us to the gangsters and lets the story develop.

The climax (the actual shoot-out) is absolutely fantastic! This is what I expect from cops vs baddies movies - proper, edge-of-your seat, gripping stuff, with blood and guts pouring out from every corner! I love the way the climax slowly unfurls, allowing us to see what pushes the baddies to repent. We know they deserve what's coming to them, but I still found myself wanting them to be saved (maybe a few hours community service would have been a better punishment?) - we see them turn to their families, lovers and even religion - these guys are real people (unlike the cardboard representations of the police officers).

One word for the climax - GROOOOSOME! Ugh! Especially the Vivek Oberoi bit - eeeeeurgh! Luv itt!!!

The other actors are all ok - I really can't stand Suniel Shetty, he's the most overrated actor in Bollywood, and he brings down every film he's in. Tusshar is not bad - I find him quite effeminate at the best of times, but he managed to muster up some masculinity in this movie! Although his sister is a co-producer, so no guesses there for why he's in this film! Vivek is the best actor of his generation in gangster roles - although he shouldn't be typecast in this style of movie, he should do more films like this as he gets most appreciation (from the junta and the critics) for these roles. The girls have little to do. Aarti Chabria is too sweet for bar-dancer roles! Tarty clothes do not suit her!

The background music is really good - one of the best things about the movie - it too enhances the storytelling. Otherwise the songs are average, but I wouldn't expect a sweeping score for a film like this!

To sum up - alright first half, which nevertheless builds up the characters of the baddies and sets the scene for the climax, and amazing climax which makes it paisa vasool.