Abhijaan / The Expedition (1962) :
Brief Review -
A Classic Film Noir from Satyajit Ray which left Major influence for Martin Scorsese's Taxi Driver. I had to mention Taxi Driver (1976) because it's a largely popular Hollywood flick and i think its reference will help Abhijaan to get more viewers. Although, it is not a remake of it, the Central character is highly similar and influenced by the one played in Abhijaan and most importantly it was almost one an half decade before Taxi Driver. If someone says Taxi Driver is a remake or adaption of Abhijaan then just shoot that guy, don't believe it. Abhijaan is far more conventional and character friendly than Taxi Driver which was more about the central character and his psychics. So, Abhijaan is about a Taxi Driver of Kshatriya cast who has been doomed by the people close to him. The only two things he is left with are his self Pride and his vintage Chrysler. He travels to other town and finds himself a chance to make big money through wrongdoings and then what happens is all you get to see in the film. The film gives the famous Ray flavour in its composition, flow and dialogues, and use of symbols. In a lead role, Soumitra Chatterjee is simply awesome. He lives the character on screen and his grasp over the intensity is terrific. 1962 has to be a memorable year Waheeda Rehman as she had Guru Dutt's Sahib, Biwi Aur Ghulam just before Abhijaan and got to play two of the most important roles of her careerin single year. The supporting cast is very good. Dialogues, cinematography and screenplay are just as nice as it should be. Ray's direction doesn't disappoint even though the film looks little longer. It's a trademark Satyajit Ray Classic. It has got everything what you seek from him and everything in the right quantity. Overall, a Classic Film Noir by the Master and a Must See for Noir lovers.
RATING - 8/10*
By - #samthebestest.
