Movie Review : Saheb, Biwi Aur Gangster

Times have changed, people have changed, and so has Bollywood! In today's times, where we have masala flicks like Bodyguard, Ready and Singham ruling the box-office charts, we also have meaningful films like Udaan, Aamir, I am Kalam etc. being welcomed by a different set of audiences. Undoubtedly, this is the best phase of Bollywood for intelligent film-makers to prove their mettle and impress the audiences with a different and unique story to tell. One such film-maker Tigmanshu Dholakia, known for his political thrillers, is back with his next release Saheb, Biwi aur Gangster releasing today. Result? It's a remarkable experience!

The Nawab (Jimmy Shergill) and his Begum (Mahie Gill), live in their ancestral royal house trying to maintain the status and structure their ancestors had left behind. But due to the changing time, some extreme financial conditions and the long gone habit of a royal having a mistress, the Nawab tries real hard to maintain his status and financial conditions. Due to the Nawab's interest in his beautiful mistress, Begum suffers seriously from the lack of his attention and tries to put every bit of her effort into getting him to come back to her or even spend a moment of his time with her. The Nawab starts taking contract killing assignments to be able to cope up with his lifestyle and to be able to get a stronger hold over his political situation while campaigning for the elections, which becomes a difficult battle considering the loss of his allies and deteriorating financial situation. The drama walks in when a rival gang plants Babloo (Randeep Hooda), to get information and plot the Nawab's killing, as the temporary driver for Begum. Begum suffering from the lack of her husband's attention and slightly hysterical due to the same gets into a sort of sexual relationship with this young driver who seems to be giving more of his time to her. In this process, Babloo falls deeply in love with the Begum and lands up confessing of his connections and intentions in front of the Nawab. This is exactly the point where the entire drama between the Saheb, his Biwi and Babloo – the gangster begins.

Sadly, there are very few Bollywood products which can be termed as 'remarkable'. Saheb, Biwi Aur Gangster is one of them! The film feels so real, that you tend to forget that you're a viewer just watching the film. The film has the ability to immerse you into its proceedings keeping you engaged throughout. In fact, giving all credit to its unpredictable nature of storytelling, one is always curious to know what's going to happen next. There are several twists and turns in the story which make you hold on to your seats thrilled, shocked, and excited. The film is also extremely witty in places. The dry humor works brilliantly for the film. Another plus point is its characterization. Each character has been sketched beautifully with their own share of flaws making the film an even more interesting watch. The drama in the film is extremely gripping and breathtaking. However, on the flip side, the first half of the film being so brilliant and perfect makes the second half seem a tad bit dragged. The film could have done with some trimming post-interval. Also, the fact that the script is extremely interesting in itself makes the songs seem unwanted and unnecessary. There are way too many songs which tests your patience a little, the only reason being that you want to know what happens next.

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Director Tigmanshu Dhulia does a beautiful job. He not only succeeds in transforming the audience into a completely world of his own, but also in keeping them engaged and interested throughout the film. That's the best compliment a director can receive! Another crucial part of this film is its dialogues. Easily, some of the best dialogues a Bollywood film has had in a long time. It contributes a great deal to the interest level of the film. The screenplay is nearly perfect and the cinematography is perfectly appropriate. The performances are one of the strongest plus points of the film. Jimmy Shergill's performance just made me wonder – is he the same chocolate boy from movies like Mohabbatein and Mere Yaar Ki Shaadi Hai?! He's absolutely fantastic! From the mannerisms and stern behavior to the selfishness and discipline of a typical Saheb, he gets it all right. This is one actor who just hasn't got his due yet. I can't imagine anyone else in the Biwi's role after Mahie Gill. Currently, she's undoubtedly one of the finest female talents of Bollywood. After Not A Love Story, Mahie Gill delivers yet another brilliant performance. Randeep Hooda is superb! Hopefully, this film will make many filmmakers look up and observe this phenomenal talent. Yet another spectacular performance! Deepal Shaw and Rajeev Gupta are fantastic and contribute some great moments to the film. Deepraj Rana, VIpin Sharma and Shreya Narayan are perfect in their bits.

On the whole, Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster is evidently not for the audience looking out for light entertainment. However, for those looking out for a good film; its fantastic script, impactful performances and powerful dialogues make it a definite must watch!

Review – ***1/2 (Three and a half stars)
Author – Rishitu Amarnani

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