I went to see this film, only on account of 'Manoj Bajpayee' and if this surprises you, then for 'Tia Bajpai' too because I liked her in Haunted.

The story being of a girl Anju (Tia), suffering at the hands of Jaswant (Manoj) who loves her in a lustful way and isn't willing to accept the fact too. One of his old servant dies once, saving his life. Manoj takes responsiblity of his son, who returns after being away from his 'Bhaisaab'. The role played by Arjan Bajwa, he feels the pain Anju is going through. But, to help her.. would mean betray his own Bhaisaab. The story tilts between these three characters, with political and police angles too.

The main problem for me in this film was the Direction, and the storytelling. At many places, Maqbool Khan didn't bring the emotions a particular sequence required, either he kept the scene too tight, or way too slow. The narration was very un-interesting, it engages you only in intervals. The side stories of inspector played by Yashpal Sharma doesn't help either as his character I felt was very half baked. The songs didn't help the film screenplay either, with only Iltija sounding good to ears.

The camera-work was good. Editing was okay.

Manoj Bajpayee gave a very good performance, he was improvising a lot, especially the laugh he ends up during most of conversations with Arjan. Arjan Bajwa was a weak link, in past I have liked him as a actor but maybe this role wasn't meant for him, his performance was pretty average.

And Tia Bajpai should do different role next time, because to see her twice in a row in exactly the same role, where she suffers and requires help is asking a bit too much. Also, felt her performance this time around was less convincing. Yashpal Sharma was good, despite not having much scope in his role.


Overall, Lanka ends up as a below average film. Poor treatment makes the film suffer, Manoj bajpayee's performance alone couldn't save it for me.


Verdict : Below Average