Who taught us that one plus one will be two not a big one? It is wrong to say Aarakshan is a single movie, but it is nearly two movies in the subject, length and presentation. The first half entirely focus on the reservation policy, the pros and cons and the fate of one who tempts to stand with what seems correct. The second half on the other hand works as a sequel, a single man’s fight against the entrance mafia which controls the new generation multi billion business.
What holds the two subjects together is the maker’s belief that if the entrance mafia is removed there is no need of reservation.
Amitab Bachchan gives yet another powerful performance. We have seen this all from Bachchan before but the veteran proves again that he can outdo his best in any new attempt. As a strict and compassionate college principal and as a singled out angry silent old man Bachchan stand tall in Aarakshan. The first half or say in the first movie get dominated by Saif Ali Khan’s master performance where in the second half he was side lined to a sub character. Prateik failed to give an impressive performance in this film, thanks to a half hearted half cooked character and his presence too were matters only in the first half. Deepika Padukone did her role well, nothing outstanding. Manoj Bhajpai was quite impressive in the first half but in the second half his appearance and acting was mostly hysterical.
The first half, which presents the reservation issue, was outstanding for its honesty and presenting both views without impartiality. The makers took some comfortable time in setting the stage for the drama but the wait paid off with hard hitting situations and dialogues which are the highlights of first half. While the first half was more close to reality, the second half was mostly filmy in approach and presentation. Lack of clarity to characters is an issue but never mind, the movie succeeds in making us think about an issue which needs special attention.
Cinematography is very good in most part of the film excellent in some other places. Then, the presence of extra light in some scenes at least was not that pleasant.
Songs are just ok.
The best plus of the movie is its focus on the issue in the first half and gripping presentation of the second half. The major minus of the movie is that the issue left in the middle and the solution suggested is not a solution.
My rating: 3.5 stars