Sanju (2018) [Movie Review]


Dir: Rajkumar Hirani
Starring: Ranbir Kapoor, Paresh Rawal, Vicky Kaushal, Sonam Kapoor, Dia Mirza, Anushka Sharma and Jim Sarbh
Dur: 2 hrs 41 mins
Genre: Biopic
Rating: 8/10

I have waited for this film for a long, long time. Not because I’m a fan of Sanjay Dutt or anything, nor simply because I’m a fan of biopics but more so because of the publicity that was made about this film. Right at the outset let me tell you that the trailer is far more provocative than the film. I guess I should have said spoiler alert but I’m not letting out any plot details so it will be alright. Apparently, I wasn’t the only one waiting with bated breath for the film’s release; thousands others were too. This is evidenced with the box office collections that were made on the first day itself! The film registered the highest box office opening in the year 2018! It went on to become the highest grosser of the year and the second highest-earning Hindi film of all time! Quite impressive stats, indeed. All this was not for nothing however, the trailer promised a handful and the cast boasted some of the biggest names in the business.
 
Sanju endeavours to tell the story of Sanjay Dutt, from his own perspective. That is not only something commendable in itself, but is also something extremely unbecoming of Bollywood. This is perhaps the first time someone has been given the opportunity to tell the story of their life. What makes Sanjay’s life particularly interesting is the fact that controversy has followed him since his earliest years and there have even been stints of jail time. All this is beautifully and quite sincerely shown in the film. Many have praised Ranbir’s performance but for me the real stand-out character was Vicky Kaushal, who essayed the role of Sanjay’s best friend. Of late, Vicky has played key roles in some of the best films and here again, he continues his purple streak. I’m thoroughly impressed by him and am looking forward to more great work from the youngster.

If you come to the film looking for controversy, you will barely find any. If you come looking for entertainment, you might be disappointed. If you come with an open mind, you will be impressed. This is exactly the way I recommend you to watch the film. Cast aside all apprehensions and expectations, except for the expectation to be thrilled. The film is a terrific watch and there is hardly a dull moment. The narrative style of story-telling coupled with impressive camera work and plot twists makes this film a memorable watch. I sincerely hope that Bollywood learns from the success of Sanju and endeavours to tell many other such stories especially those that many might never have heard about.
TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1J76wN0TPI4

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