The Rare Bollywood Film That Respects Intelligence
IMDb rating: 9/10
I wish I had seen it earlier, because Dhurandhar is nearly flawless (8.5/10)… a rare Bollywood achievement. Thankfully I saw the last show at my cinema, because its already on Netflix now.
What makes this exceptional? It avoids irritating slow-mo “hero” entries without justification, and lets the script rule supreme in a genuine multistarrer where no star overshadows the story. Characters feel realistic with just enough cinematic exaggeration to engage without documentary-level dryness – believable yet entertaining.
The BGM is great, enhancing tension beautifully. The acting is universally stellar: Ranveer shows remarkable restraint, Sanjay Dutt and Akshaye Khanna are perfectly cast, Rakesh Bedi is a revelation in a totally different role, and every supporting actor delivers. And Madhavan? You can’t even see him – just a transformed Doval.
Minor quibbles cost it 1.5 points (its not 10/10): a few unnecessary romantic scenes in Chapter 4, BGM occasionally leaning on 70s/80s classics when 1998-2009 period music would’ve fit better, and the final chapter running 5 min too long before the Part 2 tease. And remember – I was evaluating it very critically knowing that most of my friends had loved it!
Claims of “one-dimensional Pakistan portrayal” are ridiculous! IMO this film IS about Pakistanis at every shade and level. Remove the Indian spy context and Pakistan could’ve made this masterpiece themselves (if capable).
Absolutely recommended.
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