For the longest time, it felt like Rajkummar Rao was typecast into the same old naive and funny small-town boy, but this time he’s back in a badass avatar. Produced by Kumar Taurani and Jay Shekwakramani, Maalik stars Rajkummar Rao in a gritty role alongside Manushi Chhillar and Prosenjit Chatterjee. This action thriller is a refreshing new addition to Rajkummar’s filmography, and the internet seems to have mixed emotions about this film. Sure, Maalik uses the same old formula and is predictable, but the execution makes it worth a watch. I’m sure you’re wondering why? Well, dive in and read the review to find out.
The Plot of Maalik
This film follows the journey of Deepak aka Maalik (played by Rajkummar Rao), a poor farmer’s son who jumps into the underbelly of crime in Allahabad in the 1980s, driven by ambition to become the kingpin of the city. But his rise through the ranks in the world of crime does not go unnoticed, and he ends up making enemies along the way. The narrative then dives into his life as he attempts to leave the world of crime behind to build a happy life with his pregnant wife, Shalini (played by Manushi Chhillar), but there’s a twist, thanks to police officer Prabhu Das (played by Prosenjit Chatterjee). What happens when Prabhu is gearing up to arrest Maalik while he’s fighting his enemies, who can’t wait to see his downfall? Will Maalik manage to get out in time, or will something pull him back into this underbelly of crime?
Performances
NGL, but this film is driven by Rajkummar Rao through and through. I sure had my doubts before I walked into the theatre to watch him play an action hero, but mind you, our boy aces it and how. Rajkummar shines as an action hero, and to me, it seems that he enjoyed playing his character thoroughly. You will see glimpses of his good old small-town boy humour here and there, and that makes it all the more fun. His journey from a boy out seeking revenge for his father’s death to getting a taste of power and bloodlust and how that changes him is layered. The actor left no stone unturned to portray the character of Maalik, who is out for blood (I swear I got flashbacks of Animal here and there). He embodied Deepak in his true essence. Truth be told, Manushi Chhillar has for the longest time picked roles that are not-so-memorable, and while she does not have much screen time or space in this role, I’d like to say this time she wasn’t forgettable. She plays her character with honesty.
As much as I’d have liked to see more of Prosenjit Chatterjee, his role was small but powerful and his acting? Stellar as usual. Someone take the hint and just get us more of Prosenjit Chatterjee in Bollywood films. Anshumaan Pushkar, Swanand Kirkire, Saurab Sachdeva, Saurabh Shukla, and others lend the much-needed support to the film with their performances. Though there’s very little that they do because the film is anchored by one star – Rajkummar Rao. And Huma Qureshi was a wasted star. Give our girl better roles, please.
Verdict: Rajkummar Rao’s Maalik Is Predictable But Well Executed
Truth be told, there is nothing new in the plot. It’s the same old formula that we’ve seen for the longest time. If you’re going to watch it for the plot, I suggest you skip it, but here’s my take on this: we don’t watch films for the plots (I mean, it’s not like romantic dramas don’t have the same old stories), we watch it for entertainment and this one will entertain you but make sure you pay attention. Pulkit’s directorial isn’t a film you can watch while scrolling through your phone because it demands your complete, undivided attention. I won’t lie, it’s also very predictable, and the pace is uneven. The first half will keep you engaged, and the second half may seem too rushed, but show me a film that doesn’t do that?
So, what makes this film worth watching? The narrative may be cliché, but it still somehow managed to make you bite your nails as you wait for the story to play out. Rajkummar Rao’s impeccable acting and the execution of the film take you into the world of Maalik, and it’s easy to get lost in the story. More so because his story is not just about a regular man joining the world of crime, but it also plays on the themes of relationships and family. It also tells the humane story of how guilt can make one feel. The uneven pace and predictable plot are forgivable considering the emotional depth and intense drama that comes to life in this film. Apart from ‘Dil Thaam Ke’, the music of the film isn’t particularly memorable, but the background music sure amplifies the storytelling in key moments. It rushes to tie the loose ends in the second half, but considering the characters and subplots involved, it was a job well done.
In conclusion, go watch it for entertainment and make sure to leave your phone behind to avoid distractions because you don’t want to miss out on the visuals. Because Rajkummar Rao promises swag, bloodshed and lots of drama. Unlike most action thrillers, this one perfectly balances emotional aspects along with gangster drama. And mind you, this is so far Rajkummar’s best work! FYI, Maalik released on the big screens across India on July 11.
Also Read: Maalik Song Dil Thaam Ke: Huma Qureshi Is Perfection In This Track From The Rajkummar Rao Film!