Sanju

Sanju is a compelling, 2018 Indian biographical film that shines a light on a world that few people ever get to see – the complex, dramatic, and often tumultuous life of a movie superstar. This cinematic spectacle, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani, is a bold and unflinching chronicle of the highs, the lows, the pitfalls, and the triumphs of one of Bollywood’s most controversial and enduringly popular actors, Sanjay Dutt.

The film features Ranbir Kapoor in the lead role of Sanjay Dutt. Kapoor delivers a spectacular performance, admirably capturing Dutt’s mannerisms, style, and character. His portrayal goes beyond mere imitation, embodying the spirit and essence of the iconic star. His performance lays bare a palette of emotions, from the raw intensity of a rebellious young man grappling with issues of identity and self-worth, to the later vulnerability and desperation of a man trapped by his own demons.

The title, 'Sanju', is a term of endearment for Sanjay Dutt, as used by his friends and family, and the movie unfolds like a personal diary, drawing us into Sanjay's journey through several significant chapters of his life.

The narrative unfolds on the broad canvas of Sanjay’s life, which is richly textured with larger-than-life incidents that involve drug addiction, legal battles, associations with terrorism, failed relationships, and tumultuous career upheavals. Despite the serious undertones, Hirani smartly employs his signature narrative style which amalgamates drama with humor, ensuring the film doesn’t become melancholic or preachy.

The movie provides an intense gaze at the paradoxes that surround Sanjay's life - a star-kid born to silver screen legends, Sunil Dutt and Nargis – played poignantly by Paresh Rawal and Manisha Koirala respectively; a young man drawn to self-destructive habits, only to fight back valiantly; a superstar of the film industry haunted by a slew of legal issues. What starts as a boy's naive and reckless interpretation of freedom, spirals into a life full of blunders and regret. The movie doesn’t shy away from highlighting these aspects of his life, instead, it presents them unapologetically, allowing the audience to decide the actor’s redemption.

The ensemble cast of the film pleasantly supplements the main narrative. Paresh Rawal, embodying the patriarchal Sunil Dutt, strikes a deep chord with his bracing display of a father’s despair, hope, and resurgence. Manisha Koirala, though in a brief role, manages to portray the legendary Nargis with dignity and poise, becoming the moral compass for a errant Sanjay.

Another notable performance is Vicky Kaushal, who plays Sanjay’s loyal friend Kamlesh. His camaraderie with Kapoor provides some of the film’s most amusing and poignant moments. Dia Mirza also adds her charm as Sanjay’s wife, Maanyata Dutt, and provides a level-headed counterpart to Kapoor's intense performance.

Sanju skilfully interweaves gripping real-life events with a deep character study. Hirani, along with co-writer Abhijat Joshi, ensures that even while humanizing Sanjay, the film does not lose sight of his grave mistakes and their significant impact on his life and the lives of those around him. The narrative neither glorifies nor vilifies the protagonist, but instead portrays Sanjay as a flawed individual capable of change and redemption.

Interlaced with a soulful and invigorating background score, every scene of Sanju is a seamless blend of emotion, drama, humour and truth. Hirani's adept storytelling, combined with Kapoor's stunning performance, makes the movie a feast for the senses and the heart.

Through this arresting biopic, audiences are invited to step into the shoes of one of Bollywood’s most controversial figures, to witness his journey from a naive boy to a troubled star, and finally, to a man who makes peace with his tumultuous past. Despite dealing with arguably dark themes of addiction, crime, and flawed personality, Sanju, at its core, is a tale of a fall and incredible rise. It’s about human fragility and the power of resilience.

By the end of the film, audiences will likely be left contemplating the unfathomable price of fame, the human capacity for change, and the unyielding bond between a father and son. It provides an intimate account of a life lived in the fast lane and shows, most importantly, that no one is beyond redemption.

In sum, Sanju is a cinematic exploration of a star's journey, that manages to entertain, enlighten, and evoke a range of emotions. This film is a must-watch for those who are fans of Biopic genres, riveting narratives, and powerful performances.