Rajeev Khandelwal, two films, Aamir and Shaitan, which may not have set boxoffice on fire, but both films were very much appreciated.. and most importantly, his performances were loved a lot in both the films, especially by me. Hence, the expectation level increases, and the fact that the story is kind of motivating about a deaf person getting glory. But for a change, the film dissappointed, his performance was still quite good, though some problems were visible in the character sketch and portrayal of DJ Raunak.

DJ Raunak(Rajeev Khandelwal) comes to Mumbai, with a dream like any other guy comes here. His dream is to make it big in the music industry, he has the talent and knowledge of the music. His father was also involved in it. But Raunak, gets too much involved in the bad side of the city.. and before he could notice it, he loses his hearing ability. How he struggles, and fights back to glory is the film all about.

The first problem the film has, is the documentary feel given to the film with those numerous artists talking about Ranuak, what he was, what he became, where he is now etc etc. It certainly was over-done and at a point became irritating too, some shots specially were bad enough to be left out.

The other problem is the slow pace. Too many silent scenes, and also the alter ego of Raunak in form of Joker, those scenes were not helping the screenplay in any way. One conversation was enough between them, after that just his presence would have said a lot what role he plays.

All this resulted in.. not having the feeling of sympathy for Raunak, its just there and about, but never really comes well as it should had. Also, a part of it is to do with character sketch of Raunak, one wonders if it was really required to show him drinking again after knowing his one ear is gone, when the reason for his 2nd ear to go too was gonna be something else other than the alcohol.

Editing wasn't good. Camera-work was good, some nice stylish shots taken especially the one with Raunak smoking a cigg and having beer at same time. Direction by first timer Neerav Ghosh was inconsistent, good in patches, he didn't tackle the journey till the hearing problem occurs efficiently.

The best moments of the film ---
• The opening sequence of the film, the way Raunak watches and listens to various sounds all around starting from the crossing of two trains over the bridge.
• The bonding between Charlie and Raunak, was very good.
• The Gauri-Raunak chemistry, she lended a life into the movie.
• The firecracker scene involving Raunak.
• Fakira and Manzil song picturisation.
• Raunak in a song performance place, for first time learns how to feel the music through touch of hands.

The songs were well used in the film, especially Fakira and Manzil my most favs. Also, what the f! was stylish, while Ruk jaana nahi served its right purpose.

Performances wise,

Rajeev Khandelwal is quite good yet again, specially in the post interval part, in the 1st part at places he did appear a bit awkward.

Soha Ali Khan delivers a very good performance, though her dialogue delivery which is kept specially for this character was a not that pleasing to listen in the beginning. But she does lift the film up with her performance in the 2nd half.

Mrinalini Sharma hardly has much to do in the film. She was pretty much average.

Manu Rishi was good in a small cameo of doctor's role. Mohan Kapoor impresses a lot as a friend who cares for Raunak, and at same time doesn't like his bad activities.


Overall, Soundtrack has a weak 1st half, but the 2nd half gives some kind of relief. But not the kind of film you expected from a Rajeev Khandelwal starrer...


Verdict : Average