Satyagraha: Movie Review

Satyagraha

Satyagraha

Starring: Amitabh Bachchan, Ajay Devgn, Arjun Rampal, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Amrita Rao, Manoj Bajpai

Directed by: Prakash Jha

Music: Salim-Sulaiman, Aadesh Shrivastava and Indian Ocean

Prakash Jha’s fascination for socio-political issues has replenished us with a number of political blockbusters. Right from Gangaajal, Apaharan, Mrityudand to the recent one, Rajneeti, all the films have touched upon some of the most important socio-political issues that have been prevailing in the society over years. This time, the multiple award-winning director has chosen the hottest and the biggest issue that stirred the country, Corruption! Yes, Prakash Jha’s Satyagraha is the revolution of common people against the problem of corruption. It is yet another daring take on the political turmoil that is prevailing in the country.

Plot: Satyagraha is the story of a retired school teacher, a moralistic man who holds his principles tight. How a simple idealistic man becomes the face of a big movement against corruption because of a life-changing incident is how the plot develops.

Performances: Megastar Amitabh Bachchan is undoubtedly the soul of the movie. He is truly unmatchable when it comes to acting. The poise, the sincerity and the authenticity of this star demands immense respect. He is the real Shehenshah of Bollywood.

Ajay Devgn has evolved as a fine actor over the years. He manages to portray vivid emotions with ease. In spite of his commendable screen presence, he fails to make a mark.

After D-day and Rajneeti, a lot more was expected from Arjun Rampal. He is strong and convincing but his talent seems to have been wasted in this one.

Manoj Bajpai is enthralling and impressive. Having played the role of a sly politician a number of times he has just mastered it by now.

Kareena Kapoor Khan looks gorgeously pretty in a simple attire. She carries off the role of a passionate television reporter with elegance and sensibility.

Amrita Rao doesn’t get to share much screen presence but whatever bit has been assigned to her, has been done nicely by her.

Music: Satyagraha is a multi-starrer film and so is its soundtrack. A number of music composers have worked together for a soundtrack with unconventional music. Classical notes have been used to compose most of the songs. Overall, the soundtrack does not have a strong effect but songs like “Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram” and “Raske bhare” are definitely hitting the charts well.

What’s good: The movie covers a number of social-political issues that are thought-provoking and manage to leave an imprint on the audience. Commendable performances by a strong star-cast and a much effective background score.

What’s bad: The storyline seems to have gone flat this time. The political chaos seems repetitive. The film often reminds you of Rajneeti and Arakshan.

Satyagraha is certainly an engaging film made with a noble motive but barely sticks to the theme. It does not use the right tools to deliver the message it was supposed to. Certain scenes and events have been brought out brilliantly and definitely deserve appreciation. But overall, the film could not make a strong impact. Nonetheless, Prakash Jha should be lauded for choosing such crucial subjects and giving more power to Cinema. Satyagraha deserves to be watched at least once!

Verdict: Satyagraha is definitely a wake-up call for the public!

Rating: ** and a 1/2