Buddha Mar Gaya

Buddha Mar Gaya is an Indian black comedy film from 2007, directed by Rahul Rawail. The film showcases a delightful ensemble cast, including the talented Anupam Kher, Ranvir Shorey, Prem Chopra, Paresh Rawal, and Om Puri. Strong performances by Mona Ambegaonkar, Jitender Bhargava, and Birbal, among others, add depth to this dark yet humorous narrative revolving around the greed for wealth and inheritance antics. This movie is a comedic undertaking of consequences that unfold when wealth, deception, and hypocrisy collide.

The film opens with the demise of a wealthy tycoon, Laxmikant Kabraji, played by Anupam Kher. His eccentric family members, led by the greedy sons, Manu and Sonu, are bombarded with the responsibility not only of handling the business but also of preventing the news of their father's demise reaching the public. They enact a bizarre plot to hide his death as the patriarch was about to close a valuable business deal that would significantly inflate their already vast inheritance. Their plan entangles them in an unexpected loop of comedic chaos and confusion that forms the crux of the narrative.

Prominent secondary characters include a striving actor, Ajay Prasad (played by Ranvir Shorey) and a corrupt cop Munshi Lal (played by Om Puri). Their clever and sharp performances enrich the overall comic experience, making it refreshing and enjoyable for the audience. The supporting cast of Paresh Rawal, Prem Chopra, and Birbal lend significant gravitas and hilarity to the unfolding events, ensuring that the film remains a roller coaster ride of unanticipated twists.

Director Rahul Rawail ingeniously captures the core of human greed and its farcical repercussions. The screenplay stays focused on its satirical indictment of greed- instilled society, albeit draped in a thick garb of humor and wit. The film's humor doesn't shy away from being dark and edgy, distancing itself slightly from the typical slapstick comedy of mainstream Indian Cinema and inching closer towards a more western style of humor.

Technically, this film checks all the boxes. The cinematography is top-notch, with each frame beautifully captured. The art direction and production design are meticulously crafted, enhancing the whole viewing experience. The music, given by Rahul Rawail, isn't the focal point of the movie but complements the narrative well, with songs helping move the story along rather than just fillers. The film indulges in a plethora of site gags, verbal humor and ironic situations that are bound to make audiences laugh uncontrollably or sometimes smirk subtly.

In terms of performances, Anupam Kher, although in a limited role, shines and manages to deliver a remarkable performance. Ranvir Shorey, with his comic timing and improvisation skills, takes the entertainment quotient of the film a step further. Paresh Rawal, with his undeniable comic talent, satiates the need for humor in every scene he features in. He expertly conveys the essence of his corrupt cop character.

Buddha Mar Gaya is a dark comedy film that uses satirical elements to expose the ugly truth about human nature, particularly reflecting how people can go to great lengths driven by greed. The unique spin of Bollywood-style humor combined with its quirky characters, witty dialogues, and convoluted scenarios keeps you engaged and entertained throughout the film.

Overall, Buddha Mar Gaya doesn't dishearten viewers and satisfactorily delivers on its promise of being an unconventional and funny movie. While it might not be everyone's cup of tea due to its crude humor and sexual innuendo, it is certainly a film worth watching for those seeking a different kind of comedy in Indian cinema. This bold venture that fearlessly traverses the road less traveled is an entertaining ride with an incredibly hilarious undertone if one can appreciate this distinct flavor of humor.