91热爆

Vidhu Vinod Chopra's Eklavya bears all the hallmarks of a Shakespearian tragedy. A dramatic thriller steeped in intrigue, the film follows the fortunes of Eklavya, the aging guard and protector of a royal dynasty in post-independence Rajasthan. Amitabh Bachchan heads a cast of seasoned actors whose collective talents combine with evocative dialogue to make the film enthralling. If you liked Omkara, this one's for you.

The tale of loyalty and betrayal begins when the Queen (Sharmilia Tagore) utters Eklavya's name on her deathbed, and the jealous King (Boman Irani) strangles her. The death brings the royal's estranged son and heir, Prince Hashwardhan (Saif Ali Khan) back to the royal household before the King is murdered during an ambush on his car. Having failed to protect his King and with his loyalty in question, Eklavya determines to seek out the murderers and wreak his revenge.

Amitabh Bachchan has been rightly praised for his performance in the title role. He captures the conflicting spirit of a man burdened by old age but unfalteringly devoted to his cause. Indeed, the film's entire cast should be commended for their consummate performances. Saif Ali Khan has grown as an actor, coming to the fore in a poignant and moving standoff with Amitabh. The poetic dialogue also provides humorous moments, with comic characters reminiscent of Shakespeare's own fools in the shape of Boman's pitiful ruler and Dutt's foul-mouthed inspector.

"UTTERLY SATISFYING"

At a mere two hours the film is short by Bollywood standards, but aside from the undeveloped female characters it's utterly satisfying. Eklavya is a cinematic experience to be savoured.

Eklavya is released in UK cinemas on Friday 16th February 2007.