For a long time, Talaash had been in the news for wrong reasons. Its long delayed release had fanned speculations that Aamir was not happy with the final product. There were rumours afloat that the film was being reshot. Mind you that as a hero, this was Aamir’s first film after the all-conquering blockbuster Three Idiots and coming after a three year hiatus, during which the Mr. Perfectionist had done a few cameos and hosted a hugely popular TV show- ‘Satyamev Jayate’. So now that it is finally in the theatres, how does it come across?
What’s the plot?
While investigating an accidental death of a famous film-star, a tough cop (Aamir Khan) finds himself looking at a lot of loose ends. A sensuous hooker (Kareena Kapoor) becomes his main informer and provides him with many important leads. There are troubles brewing in his personal life, thanks to a recent tragedy and the subsequent depression in his wife (Rani Mukherji). In order to forget them, he practically immerses himself into this complex case and also in the process, comes closer to his attractive informer. As the deepening mystery takes him into the dark alleys of Mumbai’s red-light district, he realizes that there is much more to this case than what meets the eye. What will his relentless search finally reveal?
What’s hot?
· Writer-director Reema Kagti does well to portray many interesting and realistic characters. Her handling of the mystery and the associated psychological drama is quite good for most of part. She successfully delivers a dark, brooding psychological thriller with a paranormal edge.
· The film boasts of many excellent performances. Kareena Kapoor is top notch as the sensuous yet sensitive sex-worker. Rani Mukherji’s portrayal of a depressed house-wife, who is unable to communicate with her husband and who is desperately trying to make sense of her irreparable loss, is equally impressive. Nawazuddin Siddiqui shows his versatility through a brilliant role of a handicapped odd-jobs man working in a brothel. Even bit actors leave their mark in smaller roles.
· Aamir Khan is expected to be brilliant and he doesn’t disappoint. His troubled, tough cop act is superb. His moustached look, his voice, his body-language – everything is just perfect for the role.
· Ram Sampat’s music adds right emotions at right moments.
What’s not?
· The director unravels the suspense at least ten minutes too soon!
· The explanations are not too convincing.
· The plot development lacks pace and urgency that a thriller demands.
Verdict
When you go to see the films of other Khans, you go to see more of the same. When you go to see Aamir Khan’s film, you go to see more of the ‘Different’! In Talaash, Aamir Khan certainly provides a different kind of film. It may not be a perfect film; it may not be a crowd-pleasing film but it is a pretty good film that is worth a dekko!
Kesariya Balam
