Naqaab [2007]

Naqaab
Reviewed July 16th 07

Abbas-Mustan – the name says it all. Naqaab proves yet again why they are the only directors in Hindi Cinema who can handle making thrillers! I don’t know or frankly care whether it’s inspired or a scene-for-scene copy of some English, Japanese, American or Irish film, all I know is that Naqaab is a winner, in quality, all the way.

I expected so much from this film, because I’ve always been a huge Abbas-Mustan fan. Actually I remember when I used to dream to be an actress, I had actually vowed to someone that I will only act if Abbas-Mustan debut me LOL… So yeah my love for them has only grown stronger over the years and I really admire their cinema. They’ve carved their own niche in the industry and it’s a given that in HiFI thrillers are their forte and no one else dare attempt to match their forte ‘coz the individual will easily fall flat on their faces!

The soundtrack is brilliant and forms easily one of the best soundtracks of 2007 [which has to some extent been a disappointing year for music in the HiFI]. Each and every track is memorable and catchy; each is composed with excellence and been sang extremely beautifully.

The story is brilliant. The twists and turns are typical of those found in an Abbas-Mustan film, in the sense that every time you feel you have the whole thing worked out you’re yet again surprised because another twist comes your way. With so many twists and been executed so intelligently there is no doubt that the film is aimed at a more modern multiplex audience, with whom the film will by the grace of God gain all the success it deserves. The film is slick and grabs your attention throughout. A brilliant screenplay, never giving scope for the viewer to fall bored.

The performances of the film are the highlight, with each and every actor, regardless of their screen time, doing absolute justice to their given character.

Bobby Deol had the least demanding role of the three actors but nonetheless did complete justice to it. He excels especially in the last portions of the film and proves what a natural and versatile performer he is. A special mention to how he looks in the film – as he is looking stunningly handsome throughout!

Akshaye Khanna has a habit of stealing the show and he manages to do just that yet again. He’s one of the most natural actors ever and performs the role with such ease, making his character come alive beautifully. He works extremely well with the Abbas-Mustan duo and here’s hoping the association continues.

Urvashi Sharma never once lets the viewer realise that this is just her first film. She truly does get a dream debut and she performs the role with such ease, though it is quite a complex character to play. The girl is talent galore, and acts and looks absolutely perfect throughout the film – here’s an actress to watch out for, good luck to her for her future projects because she’s very promising.

Overall, I am very pleased with the overall product and will fight with everything I have saying that this is one of the finest films this year, because it is. Personally, it is my favourite this year alongside Apne and just following Namastey London & Ta Ra Rum Pum, which hold the top spot for me.