A relentless chase for vengeance, heartbreak, and redemption, this film redefines the boundaries of psychological thrillers in Bollywood. Starring Aamir, Asin, and Jiah, the film is set in the early 2000s in the chaotic yet glitzy cityscape of Mumbai. Blending elements of action, romance, and suspense, the story intricately weaves through past and present, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.
The story centers around Sanjay, a successful businessman whose life takes a tragic turn after a violent incident that leaves him with anterograde amnesia—a condition that wipes his memory every 15 minutes. His only goal now is to hunt down the man responsible for destroying his life, relying on tattoos, Polaroid pictures, and notes to piece together fragments of his shattered memory. Meanwhile, the story also unfolds his romantic past with Kalpana, a charming woman whose kindness leads to their ill-fated love story. With his memory fading every few minutes, Sanjay’s hunt for revenge becomes a ticking time bomb, and his quest turns into a deadly race against his own mind.
One of the most striking aspects of the film is Aamir’s exceptional performance. Known for his dedication to physically and emotionally transformative roles, he delivers one of his most powerful performances as Sanjay. His portrayal of a man grappling with memory loss while driven by unrelenting fury is both intense and heart-wrenching. Aamir’s commitment to the role is evident in every scene—whether he’s showcasing raw vulnerability in his fleeting moments of peace or sheer brutality during his vengeful outbursts. The physical transformation he underwent for the role—bulking up to portray Sanjay’s action sequences—adds to the credibility of the character. His ability to switch between the soft-spoken lover in flashbacks and the violent, tormented soul in the present makes his performance deeply impactful.
In terms of direction, Murugadoss does a commendable job. He expertly balances a non-linear narrative, switching between Sanjay’s past and present without causing confusion for the viewer. The dual timelines enrich the narrative and give depth to Sanjay’s motivations. Murugadoss also knows when to pull back on action, allowing room for emotional beats to land, which helps humanize the story amid its dark, violent themes. The editing plays a crucial role here, with precise cuts that maintain the film’s fast-paced rhythm while simultaneously conveying Sanjay’s disjointed sense of time.
Cinematography stands out, particularly in its use of contrast between the two timelines. Ravi Chandran’s camera work plays with light and shadows to signify Sanjay’s memories of Kalpana, which are often bathed in soft light, symbolizing warmth and innocence. On the other hand, the scenes in the present are shot with darker, cooler tones, mirroring the grim reality of his revenge-driven existence. Mumbai’s chaotic energy is well captured, with wide shots of bustling streets juxtaposed against Sanjay’s quiet moments of isolation, emphasizing his detachment from the world around him.
The film’s music, composed by A.R. Rahman, is a strong element that enhances the emotional undertones of the narrative. Songs like “Guzarish” and “Kaise Mujhe” evoke a deep sense of nostalgia and longing, especially during Sanjay’s flashbacks to his time with Kalpana. Rahman’s score is hauntingly beautiful and serves as an emotional anchor, particularly in scenes where words aren’t enough to convey the depth of Sanjay’s loss. The use of background music during high-octane action scenes complements the intensity without overwhelming the viewer.
The action sequences are choreographed with precision and are brutal yet believable. The fight scenes, often staged in close quarters, reflect Sanjay’s raw strength and determination to avenge Kalpana’s death. Unlike traditional action films, the violence in this movie feels personal and visceral, with each blow landing as a reminder of the pain Sanjay is trying to escape. The special effects used to depict Sanjay’s memory loss, particularly the fragmented flashbacks and rapid scene changes, help the audience experience his disorientation firsthand.
One of the film’s other key aspects is its portrayal of memory and loss. The theme of forgetting and remembering is not just central to the plot but also serves as a metaphor for the emotional scars Sanjay carries. Every time he loses his memory, it’s as if he has to relive the trauma of Kalpana’s death all over again. This cycle of loss is profoundly moving and adds layers to his character. The film also delves into how grief can consume someone to the point of losing their sense of self, which is illustrated through Sanjay’s obsessive hunt for revenge.
Asin’s portrayal of Kalpana is refreshing and brings much-needed light to the otherwise dark narrative. Her character is full of life, a kind-hearted woman whose innocence stands in sharp contrast to Sanjay’s grim reality. Asin manages to make Kalpana both endearing and memorable, making her tragic fate all the more heartbreaking. Her chemistry with Aamir feels natural and helps ground the film’s emotional arc. Jiah, in a supporting role, delivers a solid performance as a medical student who becomes entangled in Sanjay’s quest for revenge. Though her character could have been more developed, she plays a crucial role in moving the story forward.
Despite its strengths, the film does have a few areas that could have been improved. The second half, at times, feels repetitive, particularly when Sanjay’s routine of forgetting and remembering starts to become predictable. Additionally, the villain, though menacing, lacks the depth that would make him a truly memorable antagonist. While his presence serves as a plot device for Sanjay’s vengeance, a more fleshed-out backstory could have added another layer to the narrative.
In conclusion, this film is a gripping thriller that showcases a fine balance of action, emotion, and psychological drama. Aamir’s powerhouse performance alone is reason enough to watch, but it’s the combination of strong direction, stunning cinematography, and a moving soundtrack that elevates the film to another level. While not without its flaws, the movie offers a compelling look at the lengths one will go to for love and vengeance. For those who enjoy emotionally charged stories with a thrilling edge, this is a must-watch. Prepare to be taken on a rollercoaster of emotions, with every twist and turn leaving you more invested in the characters’ fates.
