Before multiplexes, when there were only single screen theaters, critics, distributors and producers used to calculate how much of a share the audience in the balcony and stall or dress circle would have in the success or failure of a new movie. If balcony liked the movie, it was class and if stall liked the movie, then it’s mass. But now times have changed. The number of single screens has reduced significantly. Almost negligible. Mass audiences are also flocking to multiplexes in large numbers and class audiences like movies with a lot of violence. The reason for mentioning all these matters here is the movie Shamshera released today by Yash Raj Films.
Well-known producer-director Yash Chopra’s banner ‘Yash Raj Films’ was once known for catering to the balcony or multiplex audiences only. But as second generation i.e. Aditya Chopra took charge, the picture has completely changed. As a result, Shamshera released today is a movie made entirely for single screens or for the masses. Shamshera is a big budget, typical, predictable bollywood masala recipe that is laced with action, emotions and drama.
Summary of the story. Around 1871. This story is set in North India. The hero of the story Shamshera (Ranbir Kapoor) belongs to the Khameran caste. During that time, Khameran was considered being a low caste who fought for existence, freedom and tolerated injustice from upper castes. To fight against the injustice, the people of Khameran caste become dacoits under the leadership of their hero Shamshera and rob the upper classes. Daroga Shuddha Singh (Sanjay Dutt), a corrupt police officer working for the British, traps Shamshera and later take his life. The plot moves forward when after 25 years, Shamshera’s son Balli enters the story. Balli eventually learns how his father has been killed and how Balli then avenges Shamshera’s murder and frees the Khameran people from slavery.
The story, written by Nilesh Mishra and Khila Bisht, lacks innovation. The son’s revenge for his father’s murder and his fulfilled dream is a poignant subject. But despite this, the fast-paced screenplay (credits – Ekta Malhotra and Karan Malhotra) keeps the audience’s interest alive at least till interval. Director Karan Malhotra’s direction is good, but the subject lacks innovation so it gets overlooked. There are many flaws in the plot. Shamshera’s son Balli’s emotional relationship with his parents is nowhere shown, making Balli’s revenge for his father’s murder seem dull. The heroine Sona (Vani Kapoor) and her romantic track with Balli could have been completely avoided.
In terms of acting, the hero Ranbir Kapoor has done a good job but despite this, the villain portrayed by Sanjay Dutt comes out as real winner. Sanju Baba in full form once again after KGF. Ranbir Kapoor’s fans will surely be delighted to see Ranbir Kapoor return to the big screen after 4 years after 2018’s Sanju. Ranbir’s hard work for this role is evident. Vaani Kapoor has handled her role well. Other notable artists include Saurabh Shukla, Ronit Roy and Iravati Harshe. The film excels on two fronts, the background score and the action scenes. Mithun’s music, however, is quite disappointing.
Overall, with absolutely zero innovation, Shamshera can not taste success at the box office. Flop.