Malang

Malang, directed by Mohit Suri, is an Indian multilingual action thriller film of 2020. The film stars Aditya Roy Kapoor in the lead role, supported by Anil Kapoor, Disha Patani, and Kunal Khemu in pivotal roles. The film takes the viewers on a spine-chilling ride across the picturesque locales of Goa while stirring a havoc of emotions with its intense and gripping storyline.

Malang, which translates to 'Vagrant' in English, is a story steeped in romance, action, suspense, and thriller, centered around the lives of four individuals – Advait Thakur (Aditya Roy Kapoor), a young introvert, Sara (Disha Patani), a free-spirited girl who lives life on her own terms, Inspector Anjaney Agashe (Anil Kapoor), a righteous yet twisted cop, and Michael Rodriguez (Kunal Khemu), a straightforward and seemingly righteous cop. Each character has its own complexities, mysteries, and secrets, adding depth to the narrative.

The film maps a significant journey for the lead character, Advait, who arrives in Goa with a troubled past. He meets Sara, an independent and vivacious girl who takes him on an exhilarating ride, showing him the true magic and beauty of life. Their lives take a wild turn, leading to unforeseen and dramatic circumstances. Throughout the film, Advait transforms from a man searching for solitude to a man on a mission.

Anil Kapoor’s portrayal of the loose-cannon cop Anjaney Agashe is captivating. He brings nuances to an obsessive, morally ambiguous character who takes the law into his own hands. Meanwhile, Disha Patani’s performance elevates the mood of the film with her radiant screen presence, and Kunal Khemu holds his own in a complex role with a significant impact on the narrative.

The backdrop of Goa with its sun-soaked beaches, vibrant nightlife, and scenic beauty serves as an enchanting canvas for the unfolding urban dystopia. Contrasted with the carefree lifestyle Goa is known for, the town's darker side looms ominously in the background, making the contrast even more startling and creating an immersive cinematic experience.

The screenplay written by Aniruddha Guha incorporates a non-linear narrative technique, merging past and present scenes to move the story forward. This captivating narrative style along with intriguing flashbacks, unexpected plot twists and cliffhanging moments maintain the suspense and keep the viewers hooked till the very end.

The cinematography by Vikas Sivaraman and editing by Devendra Murdeshwar significantly contribute to the visual spectacle that is Malang. They brilliantly capture both the hustling urban life and tranquil landscapes of Goa, along with the emotional highs and lows of the various characters.

Not to forget, the original soundtrack composed by a diverse set of musicians including Ankit Tiwari, Mithoon, Ved Sharma, and The Fusion Project, adds a further layer of engagement to the narrative. From melancholy tunes to foot-tapping party numbers, the music perfectly encapsulates the different phases and moods of the characters' journey.

Director Mohit Suri deserves credit for handling such an intricate storyline with poise and maturity. He manages to infuse ample amounts of thrill, action, suspense, and romance, giving the film a multi-genre feel. His choice of distinct characters and exploration of their dark and light sides underpin both, a thrilling amble and an underlying commentary on law, justice, and perception of right and wrong.

In conclusion, Malang is a compelling action thriller that skilfully pushes the boundaries of conventional narrative and offers an audacious blend of thrill, emotion, and mystery. It is a riveting watch for those who enjoy edge-of-the-seat thrillers and are fond of multi-layered storylines rooted in high-concept themes. Expect impressive performances, arresting visuals, and an immersive soundtrack as you lose yourself in the captivating world of Malang.