Haider
Starring: Shahid Kapoor, Shraddha Kapoor, Tabu, Kay Kay Menon, Irrfan Khan
Rated: 8/10
Very seldom do we get to see a movie that scores on all counts. Vishal Bhardwaj’s Haider is one such, that ticks excellent in all departments. Acting, screenplay, cinematography, editing, sound mixing, background score and direction — everything, just about everything fits into this puzzle, making it a gigantic ball of sheer brilliance.
William Shakespeare’s Hamlet was one of the best tragedies in literature but it is Bhardwaj’s personal touch and imagination that makes Haider a wonderful 2-hour-55-minute watch. The setting could have been anywhere, but Srinagar and other parts of Kashmir add to the pathos of the film. The white patches of snow with blood splattered everywhere adds to the ‘dark’ elements that Bharadwaj wanted to bring to the fore.
Apart from the acting which is high class, special mention should go to the director for paying attention to detail.
The Kashmiri accent of the role players, their mannerisms and their public demeanour have been depicted with a lot of weight. So, when Shraddha Kapoor innocently tells Haider that she has 'love-ed’ him since their childhood, it brings a smile on your face, a rarity in this otherwise serious drama.
Then again, Bhardwaj has stuck to the play in its entirety with respect to characters. For instance, in the movie, he has two silly brothers as Haider’s friends who later turn out to be his spies. This minute detailing help in making Haider a realistic adaptation of one of the best plays ever.
In a concept such as this where the son is hell bent to avenge the death of his father by his uncle, it was important that the star cast be selected with careful disposition and full marks to the casting director of this one for having zeroed on Shahid Kapoor and Kay Kay Menon to play these roles.
The two breathe life into the characters without over doing them in even a single frame. Tabu, as the mother and lover of his uncle, does exceptionally well. The others, including Shraddha Kapoor play the part well. But it is down to the three protagonists and the actors do not disappoint at all.
Over all, the film is a must watch for all those who appreciate thought-provoking, intelligent cinema. This is Bhardwaj’s moment of glory and one hopes this is not going to make him more chutzpah!