Ittefaq

Ittefaq is an engaging suspense thriller that was released in 1969, directed by the unfailing Yash Chopra. The protagonist, played by Rajesh Khanna, shares screen space with Nanda Karnataki and Sujit Kumar. The film stood out against the cinematic norms of Bollywood in that era, being void of songs which was a rarity among Indian movies of that age. This film is also considered as one of the early catalysts that helped make Rajesh Khanna, the "first superstar" of Indian cinema. Nanda, the lead female actor was already an established star, known for her acting finesse.

In Ittefaq, Khanna plays Dilip Roy, a highly acclaimed painter. The narrative commences with him being tried in court for the murder of his wife. The case has no proof apart from Dilip's statement that he was sleepwalking when the incident occurred, this turns the tide against him. As the events transpire, Dilip finds himself in a sticky spot, making for a captivating movie experience.

The court granted him parole based on his mental health, allowing him to be collected by his brother (Sujit Kumar), but his car breaks down in a stormy evening, forcing him to take refuge in a nearby house. Here, he comes across Rekha (Nanda), who lives alone in this expansive house. She is a striking individual, aloof, and apparently displeased with an unexpected visitor. The sequence of events building up to his arrival at Rekha's house makes for the backbone of the plot of Ittefaq.

The movie continually builds tension as Khanna's character Dilip tries to navigate this perplexing situation he somehow finds himself stuck in. With a murder accusation hanging on his head, he desperately wants to prove his innocence. The narrative is augmented by the artistic direction and skillful screenplay. The performances from the lead cast are noteworthy, and the chemistry between the main characters is palpable.

Nanda, playing Rekha, portrays the character with aplomb. She exudes an air of mystery that perfectly complements the suspense plot. She's also kind of a paradox; she's simple yet complex, innocent yet manipulative, fearful yet calm - all at the same time. Her pivotal role assists in driving the narrative forward and adds significant quirks to the overall plot.

The movie retains an open ending; keeping you guessing about what might happen in the end, it doesn't disappoint. The last-minute plot twists and turns leave you on the edge as the protagonist attempts to escape his predicament.

Yash Chopra's expertise in storytelling and direction is conventional throughout the entire film. He unpacks suspense, intricacy, and drama without relying on the standard Bollywood tropes of songs and dance numbers, thus making Ittefaq a memorable movie indeed.

Every character in the film is well developed, and the film's plot is well paced. Cinematography plays a critical role in intensifying the feeling of suspense, and the lighting complements this mood perfectly. Despite being a crime thriller, the narrative is laced with undercurrents of romance and profound human sentiments that keep it grounded and relatable.

Ittefaq is a stand-out 1969 thriller that cemented the status of its stars in the Indian Film Industry. It also laid foundational stones for future thriller and suspense films and can be accredited as one of the firsts in this genre for Bollywood. The movie's plot, characters, performances, and well-timed suspense make it a movie still worth watching. If you're a fan of vintage suspense thrillers, Ittefaq deserves to be on your watchlist.