Awam

Awam is a gripping and thrilling drama that revolves around the illustrious sphere of politics, law, and love. Released in 1987, the movie is directed by B.R. Chopra, an icon known for weaving stories that are deeply rooted in social and cultural complexities. With Bollywood's first superstar, Rajesh Khanna, and the remarkable actress, Smita Patil, in leading roles, the film certainly manages to hold its own amid an array of competitive contemporaries.

Rajesh Khanna plays Advocate Jayant, a competent and idealistic lawyer whose life revolves around his quest for truth and justice. His character is a blend of optimism, intelligence, and righteousness who confronts the discrepancies in the law with integrity and vigor. Khanna, with his charismatic screen presence and nuanced performance, does full justice to the multi-faceted role, making it one of his memorable portrayals.

On the other hand, Smita Patil, one of the most revered actresses in the Indian cinema, plays the role of Vidya, a strong, supportive, and optimistic woman. Smita, known for her ability to effortlessly embody complex characters, seems to walk into Vidya's shoes with ease, rendering a captivating performance.

The movie starts with Advocate Jayant fighting against the injustices in society. He is a man who stands by his principles but ends up being trapped in the dark corners of the political world. The plot takes an interesting turn when he decides to defend a man who is accused of murder. As the storyline unfolds, it juxtaposes concepts of truth, justice, and morality against power, greed, and corruption.

From here, the film delves into Jayant's investigation about the murder, where he encounters a labyrinth of deceit and treachery. Consequently, his personal life starts getting influenced by these dark forces which he had been fighting against. His bond with Vidya, the emotionally rhythmic counterpart that keeps him grounded amidst his tumultuous journey, is tested time and again. The subplot of their relationship adds a layer of emotional depth and offers a beautiful contrast to the power-packed drama of the overarching plot.

In Awam, director B.R. Chopra brilliantly uses the medium of cinema to shed light on the often blurred boundaries between deception and truth in the world of politics and law. Furthermore, the screenplay of the movie by Rahil Gorakavi successfully binds the intricate details of the plot into a coherent and engaging narrative. Meanwhile, Ravi's cinematography plays a key role in keeping the audience attached to the narrative by amplifying tense moments and softening the emotional ones.

While the movie thrives on its intense plot, it also sets a remarkable example of excellent acting prowess. With a plethora of other characters in the backdrop, the film effortlessly portrays various layers of human emotions and societal norms. It not only showcases the heartwarming journey of Advocate Jayant but also cunningly displays the harsh yet real faces of sly politicians and their unscrupulous maneuvers.

The music of Awam, composed by Ravi, lends heart and soul to the film. His engaging compositions stand out, seamlessly synchronising with the mood of the film. Songs like ‘Jind Le Gaya’, sung by Lata Mangeshkar, and ‘Aisa Waisa Koi Nahi’, sung by Mohammad Aziz, are an absolute treat to hear and further cement Ravi's reputation as a gifted music composer who knows his craft well.

In conclusion, Awam is a thoughtfully crafted political drama that wonderfully showcases the intricacies and hardships of standing up against the unjust. It is a movie about love, justice, truth, and the quest of a man to uphold these values, even in the face of adversity. This Rajesh Khanna and Smita Patil starrer is a must-watch for those with an inclination towards dramatic narratives engulfed in social realism.