EBolly

Review 2006: RS Top 20 Bollywood Movies

# 13 - Omkara

Starring: Ajay Devgan, Saif Ali Khan, Vivek Oberoi, Kareena Kapoor, Bipasha Basu, Konkona Sen Sharma, Naseeruddin Shah.
Director: Vishal Bhardwaj
Producer: Kumar Mangat
Music: Vishal Bhardwaj
Cinematography: Tassaduq Hussain
Editor: Meghna Manchanda
Screenplay: Vishal Bhardwaj, Robin Bhatt, Abhishek Chaubey
Dialogue: Vishal Bhardwaj

Vishal Bhardwaj’s screen adaptation of Shakespeare’s Othello was among the best executed and scripted movies of the year. The film which got critical acclaim all across the globe. The film has been applauded at many international film festivals including Kara Film Fest, Dubai film fest and Cairo film fest and has won many laurels. At the prestigious Cairo film festival, Omkara’s director Vishal Bhardwaj won the award for Best artist contribution in Cinema for director. The film got rave reviews from all over and did exceptionally well abroad. The film got lukewarm response at the box office and was registered as below average for its serious look, though it did good business of Rs. 22.67 Crores for those-who-saw-it-loved it factor.

Synopsis: Set against the political warfare in the interiors of Uttar Pradesh, the film follows one man’s obsession and jealousy in love. Omkara or Omi is a gifted chieftain who heads a gang of outlaws, which include the crafty Langda Tyagi and the dynamic Kesu amongst his chief cohorts. Omi appoints Kesu as his chief lieutenant. Langda’s pride is slighted and raging with envy he hatches a plot to falsely implicate Omi’s beautiful wife Dolly, in a love affair with Omi’s “favourite lieutenant”, Kesu. With the unwitting aid of Indu, Langda’s wife, and the willing help of Rajju, a fellow grouch, Langda’s plan blooms uncontrollably and results in horrific tragedy. Then the twist, a dark tragedy by the end of which Omi finally realizes the backlash of his actions.

The film is a well executed and directed venture by Vishal Bhardwaj though Vishal’s Maqbool was better. Vishal scores on giving the classic a complete new touch and a beautiful adaptation. The film is unique with the boldness in dialogues and good performances. Saif Ali Khan is the highlight of the film with his grey side. Ajay Devgan was convincing as the protagonist Omi. The film was a fine mix of directorial genius along with a solid script and screenplay. Though, it may not have gone well with certain patch of audience for its seriousness and raw look.

Popularity: 47% [?]

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