Mardaani

My review: Mardaani

Pradeep Sarkar's "Mardaani" marks yet another comeback attempt for Rani Mukerji after her not so good returns in the box-office over the past few years. It is essentially a cop story that follows all template studiously with the theme of child trafficking thrown in for novelty. The theme though is topical importance and relevance the manner in which they have milked the issue for commercial purposes is despicable. The director known for his subtle portrayal has missed it this time in his endeavor to present a  commercially viable movie. 

Movie does has its moments, but they are few and far in between. The tempo also wavers and when actually the tempo needs to pick up, the director decides to go about it leisurely towards the end. As a result the movie fails to create the desired impact. The banter between the protagonist and antagonist make for riveting viewing in the middle with some witty lines.  

Movie is well served by terrific performances by its cast. Rani Mukrji spouts fire with her demeanor fitting of a tough cop. Her body language and acting is fine. It is Tahir Bhasin as the main antagonist Walt who steals the show. His casual yet spine chilling performance would sure make him get noticed by the connoisseurs of cinema. Rest of the support cast have performed well to perfection.  

Technically movie is sleek and well made while the talented yet underrated Karthik Raja gives a terrific background score which enhances the tension, the predominant mood of the movie. On the whole, "Mardaani" is a full blown commercial action pot-boiler masquerading as a movie with rich social message.

Bottomline: Brusque and blunt. 

3/5