All votes to Raajneeti

Let us get a few facts straight. Raajneeti is a serious and engaging political thriller that is not for the faint-hearted. You cannot leave your brains at home and if you are a fan of mindless entertainment and/or bubblegum cinema, this one is not for you. Don’t go to see it because you like the melodious songs (they are excluded from the movie) and do not go expecting a sweet romance between Katrina Kaif and Ranbir Kapoor.

There are too many characters and too many inter-connected events so it is difficult to explain the plot without revealing spoilers. Arjun Rampal is standing for elections, much to the chagrin of his cousin, Manoj Bajpai who teams up with Dalit leader Ajay Devgn to defy him. Ranbir Kapoor, Arjun’s brother is not interested in politics but is sucked into the vicious circle. Nana Patekar is their uncle and political advisor. Rich girl Katrina Kaif is used as a pawn in the power game.

Raajneeti is engrossing and engaging even for those people who have little or no interest in politics and kudos to Prakash Jha and Anjum Rajabali for making it such. It could serve as a crash course in the machinations of political parties and a cautionary tale No time is wasted in moving from one high-point or shocking incident to another. The speeches made by the characters are real and identifiable.

There are so many nuances and delicious layers in the movie: be it the story, the screenplay, the twists and the performances, that it is best if you discover them yourself. The Hindi is heavy so you have to pay rapt attention but that is not difficult because the movie commands your attention. It is incredible how the Mahabharata has been incorporated into a contemporary story. The movie is also reminiscent of The Godfather due to the immorality and the brutality. One might find the movie very shocking, even cringe-inducing but we must remember that the real life is worse than reel life. Some may also draw parallels with the fate of the Kennedy family.

Technically, the film is top-notch. The production design is classy, even regal. Wayne Sharpe’s background score enhances the narrative.

There are a few flaws in the movie such as the customary and pointless item song. The purpose of sex scenes (aesthetic) is only to impregnate the women! Some might find the political discussions or rallies a tad stretched.

Ranbir Kapoor is flawless and restrained as the cool, calm, classy and calculative younger brother. He amazes you as his character changes shades like a chameleon. RK owns every frame he is in and is the driving force of the film. It is another stellar performance in his kitty which you have to see to believe. Arjun Rampal springs a surprise. We’re used to his Westernized image but he turns in a truly spectacular performance as the hot-headed, desi politician with a maniacal streak. He proves himself worthy of his previous National Award win. You love the bonding between him and Ranbir. Nana Patekar has a fitting role after ages and he shines as the reliable advisor. He effortlessly brings out the quiet yet powerful manner and wisdom of his character. Naseeruddin Shah makes an impact in a special appearance. Even the lady who plays Ranbir and Arjun’s mother is perfectly cast. She has a dignified air about herself.

Raajneeti should give Manoj Bajpai’s flagging career a new lease of life because he gives his heart-and-soul in the portrayal of his character that is driven by jealous and injured pride. You cannot picture anyone else in the role. Shruti Seth is deliciously saucy in her portrayal of an opportunistic party ticket hopeful. Ajay Devgn brings out the angst, ambition and defiance of his lower-caste character perfectly, never once going over-the-top. Katrina Kaif will not with the National Award for this film. She has three scenes in the first half, looks gorgeous and her acting is passable; she barely connects. Her character is not of foreign-origin or return, so her accent seems incongruous. You wonder what the similar-to-Sonia-Gandhi hype was all about! Kiran Karmarkar is perfectly cast as the corrupt police officer. Sarah Thompson is likable and makes for the perfect, guileless outsider with a humane streak.

Raajneeti lives up to expectations, sucks you into the drama and is a near-perfect film that is not to be missed.

Janhvi Patel/Hill Road Media