Being a fan of his work in Haasil, I was eagerly awaiting the release of Sahib, Biwi aur Gangster especially after having seem its theatrical trailer during Bodyguard. Thanks to favourable experiences yesterday, I managed to watch the film on the first day itself, and liked what I saw. The movie has a lot of bold moments considering how taboo the topic of sex is still considered in Indian cinema, but not for a moment they appear sleazy, though different people might have different interpretations on the issue. The sex portions do not appear unnecessary and form an integral part of the structure, thereby carrying the story forward and reflecting the characters’ motives and desires.
Story: The story revolves around the Saheb (underplayed well by Jimmy Shergill), his alcholoic and deranged wife (Mahie Gill), and the driver(Randeep Hooda) appointed for the services of the Choti Bahu after the former driver is shot in the leg by political rivals of the Saheb. However, the real intentions of the new driver are something else as he is sent as an informer by the rivals to keep them updated on the ’inside information’. In the meantime, sexual tensions arise between the Choti Rani and the young, charming servant of the house which further make matters worse for everyone involved in a game of sexual politics and professional rivalries.
Analysis: Dhulia and his writer successfully manage to weave an engrossing story of twists and turns at the right time, aided well by smart dialogue and some very well shot executions. Dhulia maintains a strong grip over the story and characterization and doesn’t let the attention of the viewer waver off, even though some portions in the middle threaten to. The principal characters develop effortlessly and over the course of the film, which makes you nail-bite on several occasions even though the film brings a predictable climax and a sudden end to it. The overall movie ends up being straight and simple to follow, and not requiring you to tax your brains or leaving anything to the imagination. You realize that whatever you saw, while it lasted was worth your time and money but you don’t carry the film with you outside the theatre.
If there are any major flaws, they are the unwanted songs that were simply not required in an otherwise racy screenplay. Music in a film of this genre and plot should have been restricted to background scores. When they arrive, they dilute the impact created by strong sequences. Honestly speaking, the film could have turned out to be much better than what it was, minus these little irritants.
Performance-wise, Jimmy Shergill as mentioned before, underplayed his part and comes up with a natural, likeable performance. Mahie Gill is inconsistent and her act ranges from brilliant to plain average. But the star is Randeep Hooda, who brought several dimensions into his character - a charming lover boy to a dangerous stalker, and an irritable, daring fellow who kills without mercy. The moods and body language are superbly brought to the fore by this highly interesting yet ignored actor.
All in all, a gripping film with some excellent moments that deserves to be seen. Won’t term it as a classic, but miles ahead of the regular below-average Bollywood fare that releases week upon week.