Shor in the City - Movie review

Shor in the City
A; Drama/Thriller
Dir: Raj Nidimoru and Krishna DK
Cast: Tusshar Kapoor, Nikhil Dwivedi, Pitobash, Sundeep Kishan, Sendhil Ramamurthy, Radhika Apte, Preeti Desai
****
What's it about: This isn't the first time a film captures the essence of the dark under belly of Mumbai. Neither is this a first attempt at weaving different stories that move towards a common end. So what makes SITC stand out in a crowd? Contrary to general belief it's the simple straight forward approach of the directors in telling a bunch of interesting stories that makes Shor instantly likeable.



Rather than showing off style and technique, the focus is on the remarkable screenplay which delivers from the opening frame. Set against the backdrop of the popular Ganpati Festival we are introduced to three friends running a piracy business Tilak (Tusshar), Ramesh (Nikhil) and Mandook (Pitobash).

They might look like menacing hoodlums but the scruffy faces mask their inner vulnerability. Next is a young boy Sawan (Sundeep Kishan) desperate to play cricket for the country at any cost.

When faced with a challenge to raise money to get his place in the team he goes all out to get the job done! The third and final chapter is of Abhay (Sendhil) an entrepreneur wanting to start off a new life in the city. Even though Mumbai welcomes him with open arms, he faces elements that change the course of his destiny.
What's hot: There is a certain raw appeal to the story that oozes sincerity rather than a contrived attempt to look 'cool'. Full marks for putting together an ensemble that wins half the battle for the film.

Performances are stellar. While new comers Pitobash and Kishan leave an incredible first impression, the seniors Tusshar, Nikhil and Sendhil bring expertise and experience to the table.

What impresses is the fact that none of these actors seems lost or dazed while playing their parts. Following their directors cue they do exactly what they are told sometimes even going the extra mile to add chutzpah to their effort.

The camaraderie between Nikhil, Tusshar and Pitobash seems extremely natural and easy. While the latter gets to play to the gallery, the former two show utmost restraint when needed.

Sendhil's transformation towards the end and the process leading up to it is portrayed brilliantly by this under rated actor. He has a heady mix of unconventional good looks and embodies an element of mystery to his character.

Sundeep Kishan brilliantly captures the angst of a youngster troubled by the insecurity of his future and uncertainty of the present.  Technically Shor has no faults the cinematography has a voyeuristic feel as it caresses and captures every nook, lane and turn of Mumbai.

Background score and the sound track both give the film an energetic, zingy sound.  Despite the ominous looking poster, don't' expect SITC to be a serious affair. It's loaded with humor, sarcasm and wit in the least expected places.

That truly is the beauty of the makers who succeed in arresting you with their tales. What stands out is the spectacular climax that's easily one of the best written in recent times. Watch out for the bomb defusion scene that will have you on the edge of the seat!
What's not: While the second half holds the momentum, the first takes times to settle down. Also the supporting ladies Preeti Desai and Radhika Apte despite their glamour and good looks don't add much to the story. Eventually Shor ends up being a guy affair with the ladies reduced to being props.
What to do: Shor hits the right decibels to make sound enough for you to sit up and notice. A definite recco for the weekend.