Highway

My review: Highway

Two movies over the past two months have got released with almost similar theme of self-actualization of the female lead, though the settings and the socio-demographics are totally different. And both these movie in their own way have dealt with the theme adeptly. "Highway" is Imtiaz Ali's 5th movie as a writer-director and most impressive of his so far. The other movie I was talking about was Vikas Bahl's  "Queen". 

It is so bold of Imtiaz Ali to touch upon child sexual abuse in such a matter-of-factly manner that is so rare in mainstream movies made in India. He aims at not only espousing the horror of the same that leaves a indelible mark in the victim's personality but also unravels the hypocrisy of the society which tries to wish-wash it from getting prominence rather trying to hush it up. Thus instead of emotional emancipation the victims get bogged down by the horrors of the experience and inaction of their saviors. Hence when they finally get chance for catharsis even the most dangerous of situation might become abreactive like what the protagonist of this movie Veera Tripathi finds herself in. 

Movie works to a great deal mainly due to its lead pair's terrific screen presence and performances. Randeep Hooda is fast building up a reputation for himself as a power-packed performer to look out for. As a ruffian Mahabir Bhati he is rock solid. Alia Bhatt is brilliant in only her second movie. She owns the screen with the confidence of a veteran. It is clearly one of the most memorable performances this year thus far along with Kangana's. 

On the whole, "Highway" is a powerful movie that is not only entertaining and engaging but also handles an important issue to ponder over adeptly.

Bottomline: Bold attempt.

3.5/5