99

99 is a unique, intriguing, and engaging Indian movie that was released back in 2009. Directed by the talented duo Raj and DK and produced by Anupam Mittal and Aditya Shastri, the movie features well-known actors such as Kunal Kemmu, Boman Irani, Soha Ali Khan, and Cyrus Broacha. The narrative of the movie is set in the era of "99" - an interesting time when the country was just on the cusp of entering the new millennium.

The movie is a refreshingly different take on the typical Bollywood fare. It lies somewhere between a comedy, a drama, and a crime caper. Blending elements of heist, con, and thrill genres with humor, the plot brilliantly reflects the messy and unpredictable circumstances of life. What sets 99 apart within the Indian cinema landscape is its original story and its intriguing retro feel given its setting at the turn of the millennium.

Kunal Kemmu and Cyrus Broacha play the roles of Sachin and Zaramud respectively, two young men caught in the cycle of debt and hustling in the underbelly of Mumbai's sports betting scene. Both characters are highly relatable as they depict the struggle of the common man in a comically pitiful yet respectful manner. Their interactions, replete with amusing dialogues, provide an entertaining and comedic touch.

The character of Rahul, played marvelously by Boman Irani, is a wealthy man with a knack for gambling. His obsessive interest in betting often lands him in all sorts of troubles. Soha Ali Khan excels in the role of Pooja, a wily and headstrong woman who works for the bookie AGM, played by Mahesh Manjrekar.

As the plot unfolds, Sachin and Zaramud become embroiled in a series of unpredictable events involving Rahul and Pooja. Their stories intertwine as they encounter pratfalls, misadventures, and several amusing escapades. The narrative's pace keeps the audience glued to their screens as it promises laughs, occasional gasps, and plenty of unpredictable twists. Simultaneously, it subtly explores the eternal human themes of greed, loyalty, friendship, and survival in the face of daunting life challenges.

An attractive feature of 99 is its nostalgic inducing representation of the pre-millennial era in India. Created with meticulous attention to detail, this creative decision results in authentic costumes, scenery, and references intertwined into the narrative, nudging the audience back to a not-so-distant past. A commendable soundtrack further enhances the nostalgia, with foot-tapping songs well-woven into the plot's backdrop.

The screenplay of the movie deserves special mention. Clever, snappy, and laced with wit, it has a dark comedic tone that shines through every scene. Another part of '99's charm is the effortless integration of real-life incidents, including the 1999 Indian cricket controversy, into the storyline. This interesting facet adds a layer of authenticity to the plot, making it more relatable and appealing to the audience.

Character performances in the movie are exceptional. Kunal Kemmu, Cyrus Broacha, Boman Irani, and Soha Ali Khan all deliver memorable, powerful performances. They effortlessly inhabit their characters, making them believable and engaging. Similarly, the supporting cast, including Amit Mistry and Simone Singh, contribute to the overall allure with their brilliant performances.

Cinematography in 99 deserves a special mention. The movements and angles chosen by the director of photography not only enhances storytelling but also builds tension. The scene transitions are smooth, thus maintaining the momentum of the story. The dialogues, crafted with wit and quirkiness, add another layer of depth to the characters and the narrative.

In conclusion, 99 is a smart, witty, and entertaining journey into the world of cricket betting, con jobs, and adventures that follow. With a blend of comedy, drama, and thrill, it reflects the chaotic, unpredictable, yet surprisingly logical patterns that life often takes. Sporting a strong cast, an original story, and a nostalgic setting, 99 is a stand-out choice for fans of smart, character-driven cinema.