Review of Striker (2010) by Akhil R — 09 Feb 2010

Chandan Arora, the director of Striker has wisely set the backdrop his film between two extreme subjects: the radical Hindu-Muslim riots that broke in 1992 and a common man's passion to live a well equipped life amidst the riots . And then he goes on to name it STRIKER- based on the pawn, an entity used to play the game of carom. I was a little deceived by the previews but then the beauty of the title is more than its namesake. Saying more will be giving too much away, but let me put it this way: There is no way to tell if Surya, the protagonist, is in love with the game or not. Because there never is a circumstance where he plays the game under absolutely no stakes. But then, he rather play a game of carrom under pressure than go looking for a job and earn hard earned money. His emotion towards the game lingers around passion but is closer to the vicinity of survival. He NEEDS to play the game at times he may not WANT to.

One of the best moments of the film is when we're first introduced to Malvani, a city that is in its most earnest state any time of the day. Be it the 4 block radius mosques in every corner of the streets or the chirpy chai-waala's in every nook and corner of miniscule gali's, Malvani is obscure, obnoxious and a whole new world in it self. It is real and so are its citizens.

Siddarth is brilliant and dynamic as Surya and he delivers his lines with apt conviction and utmost modesty. BUT it was his side-kick who stole my heart. Ankur Vikal as Zaid, the looney, vagabond and Surya's best friend is a delight to watch.

Striker may leave you confused about its underlying message- but here's a tip: don't feign for any. Just sit back and see the world of Malvani as Surya sees it. This movie makes you think and there is NOTHING philosophical about the thoughts that may arise. Watch out for that last voice-over from Surya, and you'll know why I said what I said.