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But as success burgeons, so do the ambitions, and Guru's innate mercenary streak blossoms to the fullest - at the expense of ethics and scruples. Used to kicking aside roadblocks, he starts going awry in his lust for greater success and prosperity, misguidedly living under the illusion that since the public is becoming richer too with his public limited company's shares he is doing the right thing. The baron now fights him relentlessly in the media while remaining fond of him at a personal level, and Guru reciprocates with respect.
At the final crescendo, the baron's crack reporter (R.Madhavan) exposes all the main scams and Guru suffers a paralytic attack. But when he faces a government commission, he defends himself - and that is where the film's stance gets wonky.
The film is structured as a biography. The dialogues by Vijay Krishna Dhoom Acharya maintain an even high and raise the script's level with their sheer vibrancy and energy. Mani scores as writer-director and maintains a strong emotional intensity. Guru's character thrives on relationships - he nurtures all who have played a role in his life and success - from his initially-disapproving father, his friend in Istanbul, his brother-in-law who turns against him, the baron and his daughter and even the members of the public. He is also a great adversary, retaining scruples with his foes even if he does not toe the ethical line at work. What comes across is a likeable man who in his own misguided way has a vision for himself as well as the country. The trouble again is that his wrongdoing is endorsed.
The cinematography (Rajiv Menon) and art direction (Samir Chanda) are exemplary, and the background music and songs impressive.
Abhishek Bachchan as Gurukant is perfectly cast - this is his best work since Bluffmaster ! Positive even in adversity and resolute even in defeat, Abhishek Bachchan is tremendous. Aishwarya Rai delivers a decent performance and stands out in the final sequence. Mithun is terrific as the crusader baron, and though technically wasted, R.Madhavan and Vidya Balan essay neat turns, and Manoj Joshi and Darshan Zariwala lend strong support.
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The views expressed above are of the writer and shaaditimes does not necessarily endorse the same.
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Rajiv Vijayakar
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