There are two kinds of films. One, which focus on providing wholesome entertainment. And the other, that sets you thinking!Shikhar, directed by John Matthan, belongs to the latter category, although it has its share of entertaining moments as well.Director John has opted for a story that has a vigorous impact. Tackled with utmost sensitivity, the film narrates the story of trumph of nature over human.
Not that the film is devoid of ’masala’, the staple diet for an average cinegoer. The film has that in abundance, mainly in the first half of this enterprise. The sequences of the Bangkok, for instance, are enough to appeal to an average moviegoer.
Directorially, John Matthan, exhibits flashes of brilliance in several sequences, like:
The car accident part of Javed from the high cliff and how Adivasis helped him;
Ajay – training Shahid and revealing the tips and tricks of the trade;
Bipasha snubbing Ajay, after she learns that he had taken her for granted;
Ajay and Manoj Joshi being arrested by the police;
Shahid breaking down at the wood when he is unable to find his father;
The groons molesting Shahid in the slum;
The climax of the film, when Shahid puts all his effort to exhale the fire.
These marvellously shot sequences leave an indelible impression on the psyche. Here’s a dynamic director who needs to be lauded for tackling such a difficult subject and emerging triumphant!
One can’t imagine any other actor doing justice to the complex role of Builder. Shikhar is Ajay’s film all the way and there are no two opinions on that. His performance deserves the highest marks… Just now I have heard that this performance has been nominated in the best villanious act of 2005 for screen awards!
Shahid is sure to multiply his fan-following with this role.... Cast in a role that suits his personality, Shahid gives his all to this character and delivers an electrifying performance.Even I have heard that this performance has been nominated in the best actor category of 2005 for screen awards along with likes of SRK[Paheli] , Saif [Parineta] , Amitabh[Black] and Ajay[Apharan]..so you can imagine what a gr8 performanc he has given!!
Bipasha is simply outstanding in a role that seems tailormade for her. Amrita is excellent, delivering the right expressions. Her expressive eyes convey a lot .
Despite the fact that sHIKHAR explores the darker side of society and is slightly heavy and depressing in its narrative, there’s no denying that it’s a well-made film that is sure to win plaudits by those who appreciate good, realistic cinema. A must see!