29 reviews
When Vijay Singh Rajput, a quirky, honest and extremely strict bank manager finds one of his employees trying to con a customer, he completely loses his temper and brutally beats him. As a result he is fired from his job. A broken and angry Rajput, who has given all his life to this bank, is decisive to take revenge, and what can be a better way to take revenge if not rob the bank itself? His plan is further progressed when he meets Neha, a teacher at a blind school. Rajput decides to use Neha to fulfill his plan, and he kidnaps her young brother to blackmail her. He then finds the ultimate team of three blind men: Vishwas, Arjun and Ilias. What happens next is what forms the film's suspense.
That's the basic story of Aankhen, a highly enjoyable and twisted thriller which is quite cleverly scripted. The film's concept is rather unusual for Hindi movies, and even though the story is hard to believe, the film is captivating and is generally well developed and convincingly made. Aspects that contribute to it include the great cinematography, the effective editing, the witty dialogues, and the unpredictable proceedings. The film is not without its flaws, and at times it really lacks depth and focus. The character of Rajput is particularly faulty in this regard. Towards the end, after the robbery scene everyone was much awaiting happens, the film loses its balance, and the ending is quite disappointing.
Aankhen is well acted, and of course Amitabh Bachchan excels in his negative role which allows him to have fun with his character's inexplicable nature. Akshay Kumar is very good as the sensible and intelligent Vishwas, and Arjun Rampal is well cast as the kindhearted Arjun. The film, however, has two actors who utterly steal the show, and they are Sushmita Sen and Paresh Rawal. Sen is outstanding as the tormented and vulnerable Neha, and Rawal is also superb in a wonderful comic role which is both funny and touching. What I liked about the film is that every character was given a story of its own, thus making easy to understand their motives to do what they did.
In a few words, Aankhen is very good Hindi entertainment, and in spite of its flaws manages to be a good watch with family and friends.
That's the basic story of Aankhen, a highly enjoyable and twisted thriller which is quite cleverly scripted. The film's concept is rather unusual for Hindi movies, and even though the story is hard to believe, the film is captivating and is generally well developed and convincingly made. Aspects that contribute to it include the great cinematography, the effective editing, the witty dialogues, and the unpredictable proceedings. The film is not without its flaws, and at times it really lacks depth and focus. The character of Rajput is particularly faulty in this regard. Towards the end, after the robbery scene everyone was much awaiting happens, the film loses its balance, and the ending is quite disappointing.
Aankhen is well acted, and of course Amitabh Bachchan excels in his negative role which allows him to have fun with his character's inexplicable nature. Akshay Kumar is very good as the sensible and intelligent Vishwas, and Arjun Rampal is well cast as the kindhearted Arjun. The film, however, has two actors who utterly steal the show, and they are Sushmita Sen and Paresh Rawal. Sen is outstanding as the tormented and vulnerable Neha, and Rawal is also superb in a wonderful comic role which is both funny and touching. What I liked about the film is that every character was given a story of its own, thus making easy to understand their motives to do what they did.
In a few words, Aankhen is very good Hindi entertainment, and in spite of its flaws manages to be a good watch with family and friends.
- Peter_Young
- Oct 15, 2010
- Permalink
Just when you have given up on Hindi films after the last round of disastrous flicks like Kya Yehi Pyaar Hai, Durga and Vadh, there comes a film that restores your faith in Bollywood.
Aankhen has a Hollywood-style bank robbery plot executed without compromising too much on the three must-haves of Hindi films --- songs, three hours and gaping holes in the plot.
Vijay Singh Rajput (Amitabh Bachchan) is the manager of Vilasrao Jefferson bank. He has chosen celibacy to prove his dedication to his work. But his pent-up frustrations burst out against his employees --- the watchman caught sleeping on the job, the cashier who tries to siphon off a few notes before he hands it over the counter.
After he beats the living daylights out of the nincompoop sweaty cashier, Rajput is fired from the bank he has served for over 25 years.
The official reason for his behaviour is that Rajput has schizophrenia, which explains why he is obsessed with taking revenge on his employers and co-workers --- all of which some of us fantasize about through our lives. The only difference is that Rajput goes a step further and does what others only dream of doing --- get even with the bosses.
He decides to extract his revenge by robbing the bank and finds a cast of three blind men, Vishwas Prajapati (Akshay Kumar), Arjun Verma (Arjun Rampal) and Ilias (Paresh Rawal). Svelte teacher Neha Srivastav (Sushmita Sen) also carries out his bidding.
While the three blind men are in it for the money, Neha plays along because Rajput has her younger brother captive. Using her skills as a teacher, Neha simulates the bank's interiors and teaches the trio the tricks to pull off the heist.
After over 40 days of training in a simulated environment, the three blind men step into the bank to pull off the most novel bank robbery Bollywood has seen. How they do it forms the rest of the film.
Aankhen defies all the rules of commercial Hindi cinema. The heroes are blind and are actually listen to a woman who seems more intelligent and capable than all of them put together.
The plot doesn't lose sight of its goal -- the bank robbery -- and refuses to get side-tracked into mindless romance or songs. Conceived and executed like a taut Hollywood thriller, Aankhen is an impressive breakaway from the cliché ridden formula filmmaking that afflicts Bollywood.
The credit for this belongs to debutant director Vipul Shah and his team. Shah is in completely in control of the film, whether it is in the dramatic sequences or developing the chemistry among the cast.
The story of Aankhen has been adapted by writer Aatish Kapadia from his own Gujarati play, Andhla Pato (Blindman's Buff), first staged in 1992. Thanks to his experience with the theatre where taut scripts are necessary to hold the act together, Kapadia's screenplay is one of the film's strong points.
The other is the cast and characterisation.
As Vijay Singh Rajput, Amitabh Bachchan has turned in one of the finest performances of his career. He pulls off the most ludicrous situations with credibility and style. In a role that changes colours, starting as an upright bank officer morphing into a man obsessed with pulling off a bank robbery for revenge and finally turning into the villain who is prepared to go to any lengths to get his booty, Bachchan is glorious. He proves himself worth the sobriquet of the 'superstar' of Hindi cinema.
Not to say that the others are overshadowed by his presence. As the blind man with that extra-sensory perception, Akshay Kumar holds his own in every scene. He brush-offs with Bachchan are dramatic and he brings a quiet intelligence and depth to his role. Every time he senses the silent Rajput hovering in the background, the screen crackles with electricity.
The chemistry between him and Paresh Rawal is delightful. Akshay's thinking demeanor offsets Rawal's light-hearted quick-to-crack a joke countenance. With a role that is funny and irreverent, Rawal gathers the audience's laughs and proves his onscreen brilliance yet again.
Arjun Rampal looks good, has a good body and a goodr screen presence but falls flat, partly due to poor characterisation. His is the only role that appears half-baked and Rampal only makes it worse.
Sushmita Sen's role of Neha deserves an extra round of applause. Unlike most Hindi film heroines who come across as bimbettes and whose only aim is to get into the hero's way at the climax, Neha doesn't need a man to exist. She is intelligent and capable, even during the climax.
However, the film has its fair share of flaws. The pace tends to sag intermittently and the actual robbery comes as an anti-climax to the tension built during the training. Besides, the robbery also appears terribly tame.
The three-hour film tends to get you a little fidgety towards the end. Bipasha Basu and Kashmira Shah in 'item' numbers aggravate the cramped legs in an already stretched out film.
But in all, Aankhen is different from your usual Hindi flick. It is a fast paced, slick thriller, a species rarely encountered in the annals of the Hindi film industry.
Aankhen has a Hollywood-style bank robbery plot executed without compromising too much on the three must-haves of Hindi films --- songs, three hours and gaping holes in the plot.
Vijay Singh Rajput (Amitabh Bachchan) is the manager of Vilasrao Jefferson bank. He has chosen celibacy to prove his dedication to his work. But his pent-up frustrations burst out against his employees --- the watchman caught sleeping on the job, the cashier who tries to siphon off a few notes before he hands it over the counter.
After he beats the living daylights out of the nincompoop sweaty cashier, Rajput is fired from the bank he has served for over 25 years.
The official reason for his behaviour is that Rajput has schizophrenia, which explains why he is obsessed with taking revenge on his employers and co-workers --- all of which some of us fantasize about through our lives. The only difference is that Rajput goes a step further and does what others only dream of doing --- get even with the bosses.
He decides to extract his revenge by robbing the bank and finds a cast of three blind men, Vishwas Prajapati (Akshay Kumar), Arjun Verma (Arjun Rampal) and Ilias (Paresh Rawal). Svelte teacher Neha Srivastav (Sushmita Sen) also carries out his bidding.
While the three blind men are in it for the money, Neha plays along because Rajput has her younger brother captive. Using her skills as a teacher, Neha simulates the bank's interiors and teaches the trio the tricks to pull off the heist.
After over 40 days of training in a simulated environment, the three blind men step into the bank to pull off the most novel bank robbery Bollywood has seen. How they do it forms the rest of the film.
Aankhen defies all the rules of commercial Hindi cinema. The heroes are blind and are actually listen to a woman who seems more intelligent and capable than all of them put together.
The plot doesn't lose sight of its goal -- the bank robbery -- and refuses to get side-tracked into mindless romance or songs. Conceived and executed like a taut Hollywood thriller, Aankhen is an impressive breakaway from the cliché ridden formula filmmaking that afflicts Bollywood.
The credit for this belongs to debutant director Vipul Shah and his team. Shah is in completely in control of the film, whether it is in the dramatic sequences or developing the chemistry among the cast.
The story of Aankhen has been adapted by writer Aatish Kapadia from his own Gujarati play, Andhla Pato (Blindman's Buff), first staged in 1992. Thanks to his experience with the theatre where taut scripts are necessary to hold the act together, Kapadia's screenplay is one of the film's strong points.
The other is the cast and characterisation.
As Vijay Singh Rajput, Amitabh Bachchan has turned in one of the finest performances of his career. He pulls off the most ludicrous situations with credibility and style. In a role that changes colours, starting as an upright bank officer morphing into a man obsessed with pulling off a bank robbery for revenge and finally turning into the villain who is prepared to go to any lengths to get his booty, Bachchan is glorious. He proves himself worth the sobriquet of the 'superstar' of Hindi cinema.
Not to say that the others are overshadowed by his presence. As the blind man with that extra-sensory perception, Akshay Kumar holds his own in every scene. He brush-offs with Bachchan are dramatic and he brings a quiet intelligence and depth to his role. Every time he senses the silent Rajput hovering in the background, the screen crackles with electricity.
The chemistry between him and Paresh Rawal is delightful. Akshay's thinking demeanor offsets Rawal's light-hearted quick-to-crack a joke countenance. With a role that is funny and irreverent, Rawal gathers the audience's laughs and proves his onscreen brilliance yet again.
Arjun Rampal looks good, has a good body and a goodr screen presence but falls flat, partly due to poor characterisation. His is the only role that appears half-baked and Rampal only makes it worse.
Sushmita Sen's role of Neha deserves an extra round of applause. Unlike most Hindi film heroines who come across as bimbettes and whose only aim is to get into the hero's way at the climax, Neha doesn't need a man to exist. She is intelligent and capable, even during the climax.
However, the film has its fair share of flaws. The pace tends to sag intermittently and the actual robbery comes as an anti-climax to the tension built during the training. Besides, the robbery also appears terribly tame.
The three-hour film tends to get you a little fidgety towards the end. Bipasha Basu and Kashmira Shah in 'item' numbers aggravate the cramped legs in an already stretched out film.
But in all, Aankhen is different from your usual Hindi flick. It is a fast paced, slick thriller, a species rarely encountered in the annals of the Hindi film industry.
- mustafapopal
- Apr 4, 2002
- Permalink
A surprisingly good offering from Bollywood. A bank robbery is planned by a disgruntled ex-employee who is upset because he was fired. The plan involves recruiting 3 blind people, training them, etc. The goal, of course, is to rob the bank while making all the witnesses believe that the perpetrators were not blind. If they are caught, who would believe that they were the thieves, right ? But, twists, double crosses and love-twists abound. Understandably, filming such an intricate plot elegantly is beyond Bollywood writers/directors. The plot gets somewhat flimsy at places, where the director tries to forcibly insert some bollywood-ese sections. On the whole, a worthwhile film to watch. Amitabh shines. Paresh Rawal's melodrama is painful to watch. One gets the idea that this was an attempted copy of some Hollywood film.
Aankhen is an Indian movie, the story tells of how three blind men rob a bank.The movie was absolutely fantastic.It had a lot of twists and turns along the way, and kept viewers on the edge of their seat never knowing what was going to occur next.
Vipal Shah did a great job directing this movie.The story was simple, yet how it was told was nicely done.Each character had an interesting story of how he lost his sight.
Great music, an exciting story, and great acting makes this a must see for people who understand Hindi and foreign movie lovers alike.
10/10
Vipal Shah did a great job directing this movie.The story was simple, yet how it was told was nicely done.Each character had an interesting story of how he lost his sight.
Great music, an exciting story, and great acting makes this a must see for people who understand Hindi and foreign movie lovers alike.
10/10
The movie is about a recently fired schizophrenic bank manager scheming to get even with his employers by robbing the bank with the help of three blind men and a beautiful blind school teacher! Amitabh Bachchan as the bank manager excels in his role. He is one of the most talented guys out there today. Pity not all his movies are as good as this one or his earlier Aks. The movie moves with a fast pace initially, but slows down towards the middle with cursory song and dance sequences spoiling its pace(the two songs - one with the three blind guys and the other in the bar are very painful to sit through). It picks up pace towards the end and even has quite a few surprising twists that I most certainly didn't expect in a mainstream hindi movie! Good job director and script writer! Thank goodness you didn't make the movie boring by removing those twists and giving us a bland fare which most box-office fearing mediocre directors would have done. Akshay, Paresh, Arjun and Sush all perform their roles well.
There are a few glitches in the movie - like the name of the bank. A most ridiculous name. Then the location of the bank itself. A bank that has a lobby looking like that of a 3-star hotel is located in the midst of a busy and dirty side street in Mumbai! Sure! None of the songs are appealing, except the one with Bipasha Basu - in fact the rest of the songs are really irritating and definitely jarring in the midst of an interesting screenplay. Directors of India - I LOVE songs in a movie; but not when it interrupts the movie's flow drastically.
Overall, a must see movie.
There are a few glitches in the movie - like the name of the bank. A most ridiculous name. Then the location of the bank itself. A bank that has a lobby looking like that of a 3-star hotel is located in the midst of a busy and dirty side street in Mumbai! Sure! None of the songs are appealing, except the one with Bipasha Basu - in fact the rest of the songs are really irritating and definitely jarring in the midst of an interesting screenplay. Directors of India - I LOVE songs in a movie; but not when it interrupts the movie's flow drastically.
Overall, a must see movie.
That pretty much sums it up. As heist thrillers go, this is a pretty solid movie. The lengthy time actually works in its favor, because it allows the main characters to be fully fleshed out. Unless you're David Mamet, it's pretty hard to do a 90 minute heist movie and have you care about the people involved. From an American perspective, this movie is quite fresh, both in the concept and the lack of American stereotypes (there's no young punk, retired thief returning for one last score, or anything like that here.) Also, the tension level is excellently done. That said, there are some major credibility issues; you can buy something like "Heist" working, but "Aankhen" it's best to turn your brain off. This is more along the lines of something like "To Catch a Thief"; you don't buy it but the ride's so much fun you don't care.
The directing by Vipul Shah definitely deserves kudos on the visual end and with the actors; the director uses both the foreground AND the background, unconcerned with what's in focus and what isn't (and in fact drops in a few jokes), and the framing is quite precise. Even when he's constrained by the necessity of suddenly making a music video, he does his best. The acting isn't perfect, but the actors are convincing in their handicapped and Amitabh Bachchan comes off as one cold-blooded hombre.
This is definitely worth a look, a superior slice of dumb fun.
The directing by Vipul Shah definitely deserves kudos on the visual end and with the actors; the director uses both the foreground AND the background, unconcerned with what's in focus and what isn't (and in fact drops in a few jokes), and the framing is quite precise. Even when he's constrained by the necessity of suddenly making a music video, he does his best. The acting isn't perfect, but the actors are convincing in their handicapped and Amitabh Bachchan comes off as one cold-blooded hombre.
This is definitely worth a look, a superior slice of dumb fun.
i believe that Vipul Amrutlal shah has done a great job on this movie i watched it 2 maybe 3 times i loved it the only painful part about this movie is the sadness which usually happens around Paresh Rawal(Illias) but i guess writer Aatish Kapadia who adapted shobana desai's andhalo pato into a hard packing screenplay really makes up for the sadness or the inability to do anything which he surpasses in the end it is not like a good ending or a bad ending it's the ending the type of ending which shakes the story and gives ti a whole new turn after unbelievable chaos has occurred thumbs up to vipul amrutlal shah for a slick thriller
Aankhen is blindsided by an over-the-top, implausible screenplay that never dares to meet the truth even halfway. Legendary actor, Amitabh Bachchan is burdened with the impossible task of justifying this Bollywood balderdash. Western viewers enamoured of Hollywood's hyped-up style-over-substance action thrillers may find Aankhen a harmless distraction. However, discerning world cinema fans are not likely to sit still for this 3-hour
The other guy that commented on this movie, obviously didn't know what he was talking about. This movie was great. One of a few thrillers from Bollywood. Sushmita Sen, and Arjun Rampal gave a breath taking performance. Amitabh was great as usual. The plot line of this movie was good, and it keeps your attention with twists and turns along the way. By the way, for the guy that asked, Aankhen means blind. Before you rent, or buy a Bollywood movie, you have to be ready to listen, to a lot of song, and watch a lot of dances. Indians who have a rough life, like to watch movies with a lot of songs to up lift their spirits. If you like bollywood movies, this one is very very good. It is a must see! With a 9 out of ten on MY personal scale
- sillyfilly_asia
- Mar 24, 2005
- Permalink
I really enjoyed this. I had come to watch it not knowing what to expect. I had heard the part about all the characters being blind but not much else. What i discovered was an excellent bank heist thriller with great turns from Amitabh Bachchan and Akshay Kumar (who i normally don't like, in fact i thought he was very good in this).
Even arjun rampal, who is a very dull screen personality, came across well. I always find he is better playing blind guys (see also VAADA) or villains (see Om Shanti Om). Sushmita Sen was great, she is very pretty, i wish the romance between her and arjun could have been developed a little more (or maybe they should do another film together as they make a nice pair)but it probably would have spolied the tone of Aankhen.
Overall it was a film that really draws you in. The plot was good and the ending made me wish for a sequel!
Even arjun rampal, who is a very dull screen personality, came across well. I always find he is better playing blind guys (see also VAADA) or villains (see Om Shanti Om). Sushmita Sen was great, she is very pretty, i wish the romance between her and arjun could have been developed a little more (or maybe they should do another film together as they make a nice pair)but it probably would have spolied the tone of Aankhen.
Overall it was a film that really draws you in. The plot was good and the ending made me wish for a sequel!
Vipul Shah inspired from a Gujarati play made this film The story was quite novel and looked nice on paper This was something quite novel in 2002 when most filmmakers went through the safe formula
The film starts brilliantly with Amitabh's character shown as a mental character and then the entire decision to plant a robbery is fantastic The flashbacks of the other 3 characters are well handled the training sessions start well but then the writer goes slow and start showing romance, comedy more But Akki's sixth sense scenes are well handled The entire bank robbery is too childish though, the handling is damn weak The script has some flaws like the romance between Arjun and Sushmita, Sushmita forgetting her brother and also Bachchan's track gets sidelined too often The second half gets too slow paced too but then towards the climax things get better like Amitabh confronting Akshay and Arjun and then the entire Amitabh- Arjun- Akshay clash towards the climax But the climax in Hindi version is too lame and childish
Vipul Shah makes a nice debut and handles several scenes well but his screenplay lets him down at places Music seems forced, but some songs are nice like Phatela Jeb
Amitabh steals the show, Having played negative roles in PARWANA, DON.etc Here the actor seems totally charged and gives one of the best performances of his career His expressions, evil look all are fantastic Akshay too seems great in his role and his sixth sense scenes are wonderful Arjun seems too uncomfortable in his role though Sushmita Sen is excellent, Paresh Rawal entertains but does overact at places and get too loud Aditya Panscholi is alright in his part
The film starts brilliantly with Amitabh's character shown as a mental character and then the entire decision to plant a robbery is fantastic The flashbacks of the other 3 characters are well handled the training sessions start well but then the writer goes slow and start showing romance, comedy more But Akki's sixth sense scenes are well handled The entire bank robbery is too childish though, the handling is damn weak The script has some flaws like the romance between Arjun and Sushmita, Sushmita forgetting her brother and also Bachchan's track gets sidelined too often The second half gets too slow paced too but then towards the climax things get better like Amitabh confronting Akshay and Arjun and then the entire Amitabh- Arjun- Akshay clash towards the climax But the climax in Hindi version is too lame and childish
Vipul Shah makes a nice debut and handles several scenes well but his screenplay lets him down at places Music seems forced, but some songs are nice like Phatela Jeb
Amitabh steals the show, Having played negative roles in PARWANA, DON.etc Here the actor seems totally charged and gives one of the best performances of his career His expressions, evil look all are fantastic Akshay too seems great in his role and his sixth sense scenes are wonderful Arjun seems too uncomfortable in his role though Sushmita Sen is excellent, Paresh Rawal entertains but does overact at places and get too loud Aditya Panscholi is alright in his part
- silvan-desouza
- Jan 21, 2009
- Permalink
Aankhen means 'eyes', the story of training three blind people to rob a bank in getting revenge proves for on the edge of the seat viewing. Amitabh again gives priceless acting, Akshay and Arjun Rampal are good supporting cast but Paresh Rawal is great adding great humour. Some of the songs in the films are obviously intended for the indian audience, as films fare poorly in record sales if a film has no songs.
The editing seems a littles inaccurate at times and this is clearly a flaw in the film, if bollywood was to bring out more original themes such as this film it would propel it to a new level.
On the whole, vintage amitabh and some scenes in the film especially between Akshay and the former are ones to remember.
The editing seems a littles inaccurate at times and this is clearly a flaw in the film, if bollywood was to bring out more original themes such as this film it would propel it to a new level.
On the whole, vintage amitabh and some scenes in the film especially between Akshay and the former are ones to remember.
- jaihind_17
- Jan 30, 2004
- Permalink
It is a must see. Excellent plot - it is a very gripping movie - and very well directed. The story it not at all stereo-typical - and just when you think it is over - you know there's another twist. Excellent acting by Amitabh Bachchan. Sushmita looks great!
- sandeep_bose
- Apr 6, 2002
- Permalink
this movie is indeed a movie that isn't quite a regular bollywood fare. It is a very well made movie with EXCELLENT performances from each of the cast.the only place the movie lacked was in certain applications of scenes where much more care was needed,....also where in the world does a bank have a skateboard left in the middle of its hall?.....but apart from few glitches and certain lapses that occurred to indianize the movie.....the rest was impressively done. the previous reviewer certainly was out of his mind when he said that making top stories and screenplays was beyond bollywood writes/directors......bollywood has churned out the best of the movies ......its just that the western audience cannot connect to certain things which they don't see in their society.our dear friend seems to childishly adore their out of the world,out of the mind movies. anyways, AANKHEN has been inspired by an English movie but still has its original values....specially the drama scenes where the 3 protagonists connect with each other. This movie has been highly underrated,and deserves a viewing at least to appreciate its plot and performances..... P.S:- Paresh rawal was at his very best and his performance is a major thing to watch in this movie.
- krishnachaitanya009
- Jul 10, 2006
- Permalink
Movie is just awesome, nothing less than that. Based on a Gujarati drama "Andhalo Pato". Great plot. Amitabh Bachchan's acting is outstanding. Best movie of Arjun Rampal's career ( not Because of him). A perfect mix of plot, music ( both background music and Songs), comedy , thriller and action.
- Vineet_MishraPrayagraj_Dibiyapur
- Feb 7, 2019
- Permalink
What happens when a psychopathic Bank Manager is expelled from the Bank for having beaten up an accountant almost to death for stealing 1000 bucks? Revenge is the answer... when all the man has done his entire life is look after the Bank, like his baby.... day and night... not even getting married for that sake... However, when he gets expelled... not seeing his own faults... he feels cheated and betrayed! He promises himself that he will take his revenge...
Then comes the twist. The man plans a bank robbery where three blind men will be used by him for his purpose... to train these men, Sushmita Sen is employed and does she have a choice when he little brother has been kidnapped by this man? A dangerous game is about to begin! Aankhen is truly a masterpiece... The direction is almost flawless and the thrill of the movie keeps you on the edge of your seat. Bachchan shines as the evil man... Sushmita Sen gives a very mature performance... Akshay gives one of his career best.... Rampal looks good and Rawal gives one of his career best too! Aditya Pancholi is competent.
The music by Jatin Lalit is great with "Aankhen", "Kuch Kasmein Hain Jawaan", "Phatela Jeb" and "Challka Challka" all being great numbers.
The ending did get a bit confusing but now that they've announced there'll be a sequel, I guess its started to make sense... Here's looking forward to Aankhen 2!
Then comes the twist. The man plans a bank robbery where three blind men will be used by him for his purpose... to train these men, Sushmita Sen is employed and does she have a choice when he little brother has been kidnapped by this man? A dangerous game is about to begin! Aankhen is truly a masterpiece... The direction is almost flawless and the thrill of the movie keeps you on the edge of your seat. Bachchan shines as the evil man... Sushmita Sen gives a very mature performance... Akshay gives one of his career best.... Rampal looks good and Rawal gives one of his career best too! Aditya Pancholi is competent.
The music by Jatin Lalit is great with "Aankhen", "Kuch Kasmein Hain Jawaan", "Phatela Jeb" and "Challka Challka" all being great numbers.
The ending did get a bit confusing but now that they've announced there'll be a sequel, I guess its started to make sense... Here's looking forward to Aankhen 2!
The expression "Whoah !" comes running to my mouth as I step out of the cinema hall having consumed Bollywood's answer to the popular gujarati play -- 'aandhlo paato'.
Racy, wild ... thrilling ... I think you're getting the picture !
Needless to say, the trump card held by Vipul Shah (director) is the intricate and intriguing plot of this "tighten-your-seat-belts" extravaganza !
Bravura performances by the infallible Big B, Akshay Kumar and the proficient Paresh Rawal ... a gripping pace ... an unusual story and technical finesse bring to you a product that is almost flawless !
There ... ! That's the catchword --- "ALMOST" ! Yes ... the beautiful visage of this film is marred by a few unsightly blemishes.
The sidey lovey-dovey twosome working in the bank grate on your nerves each time they make an unwanted appearance. And pray ... WHY oh WHY the name "Vilasrao Jefferson" for the bank that resembles a 5-star hotel lobby ?
Moreover, the sharp-as-nails and witty-as-can-be Paresh Rawal is shown putting his foot in his mouth over the silliest of issues and royally messing up the bank robbery. Without mincing words, there are times when you are tempted to whack him on his behind and warn him not to reduce the most dramatic sequence of the movie into a farce.
These minor moles and warts apart, the movie is a delight and a must-watch for every soul thirsty for innovation and creativity in Indian Cinema. I give this one an 8 on 10 !
Racy, wild ... thrilling ... I think you're getting the picture !
Needless to say, the trump card held by Vipul Shah (director) is the intricate and intriguing plot of this "tighten-your-seat-belts" extravaganza !
Bravura performances by the infallible Big B, Akshay Kumar and the proficient Paresh Rawal ... a gripping pace ... an unusual story and technical finesse bring to you a product that is almost flawless !
There ... ! That's the catchword --- "ALMOST" ! Yes ... the beautiful visage of this film is marred by a few unsightly blemishes.
The sidey lovey-dovey twosome working in the bank grate on your nerves each time they make an unwanted appearance. And pray ... WHY oh WHY the name "Vilasrao Jefferson" for the bank that resembles a 5-star hotel lobby ?
Moreover, the sharp-as-nails and witty-as-can-be Paresh Rawal is shown putting his foot in his mouth over the silliest of issues and royally messing up the bank robbery. Without mincing words, there are times when you are tempted to whack him on his behind and warn him not to reduce the most dramatic sequence of the movie into a farce.
These minor moles and warts apart, the movie is a delight and a must-watch for every soul thirsty for innovation and creativity in Indian Cinema. I give this one an 8 on 10 !
- aapka_anuj
- Apr 15, 2002
- Permalink
This is the first time bollywood has taken an interesting concept and taken a step further in film-making .Which is also copied from a film that was made in the south of India.A very impressive ,interesting concept and story,gripping and intriguing.It could've been a great Hollywood thriller.Unfortunately it went into the hands of Bollywood filmmakers which means loads of songs ,massive flaws/plot holes and lame execution makes this could've-been highly successful film into a dumb thriller.What a film it could've been.Why did they ruin it ,that is the biggest regret to have watched this film,instead of watching a Hollywood remake.Aankhen (EYES) could've been a great film ,I hate the Bollywood filmmakers for wasting such a good premise.I gave it a 4 only for its concept.I wish they was someone in Hollywood who could make this flick.I don't understand why indians appreciate cheap cinema so much,like this one.
*1/2 out of five.
*1/2 out of five.
- HiddenVoice
- Mar 17, 2007
- Permalink
Aankhen, A Dangerous Game is a film worth watching just for the superb acting. Starring Amithabh Bachan, Akshay Kumar, Shushmita Sen, Arjun Rampal and Paresh Rawal is a great noteworthy cast. The Big B excels himself playing the shizophrenic bank manager, who after getting the sack from his beloved bank decides to seek revenge by carrying out a bank robbery. His performance is electrifying,(very DeNiro like) even when he is not talking his expressions tell it all. Aside from his acting the guy looks great too, not totally reinventing himself but the last shot of him leaves you thinking whether that was just Amithabh Bachan ( or Ali G)
Akshay Kumar as Vishwas performs great but mainly because his character is more developed than that of Arjun Rampal. Akshay plays one of the blind men with a a twist, he has a sixth sense. At first this seemed absurd but it provided a reason for the great scenes between Akshay and Amithabh Bachan so it could possibly be excused by the audience.
Arjun's performance is somewhat overshadowed by the rest of the cast. His character Arjun provides the subtle love story developing with Shushmita Sen. Arjun looked great although it can be criticised that he and Akshay looked too good to be blind men, but the movie is very much in this century, where not every blind person is seen as poor, although Paresh was given that role for good measure. Paresh Rawal as Ilias gives an outstanding performance. In Aankhen he is given the opportunity to shine whereas in many of his past films, he is the same old villain or the joker who is only there to provide the laughs. Ok so the latter point may be true in this film too but here it is the relationship between the three blind men that give it its subtle humour, allowing the audience to relate to the characters.
Shushmita Sen plays Neha the schoolteacher who is there to train the blind men. Not only does she look great on screen without the skimpy dresses but also her ability to carry out the role has to be her greatest performance so far. Although she does nothing outstanding in the movie that will leave you in awe of her, her acting throughout the whole film is consistent and you are left with no doubt of her brilliant performance.
The script is great and deserves a round of applause, the debut from the director has proved that he is one to look out for. The climax to the film is thrilling and makes sure that everything comes out completely intact without any details left out. Although it has to be said that although the ending is different it does leave the viewer unsatisfied.The music is not upto scratch and could have been improved.
Overall if you've watched Oceans Eleven this could be said to be the Hindi version. A must watch for any movie goer. If you want to see something different from Bollywood this is the one, hopefully more great story lines are to come abt, (heard Company is a good one to watch out for.
This is one Game that should not be Missed!!!
Akshay Kumar as Vishwas performs great but mainly because his character is more developed than that of Arjun Rampal. Akshay plays one of the blind men with a a twist, he has a sixth sense. At first this seemed absurd but it provided a reason for the great scenes between Akshay and Amithabh Bachan so it could possibly be excused by the audience.
Arjun's performance is somewhat overshadowed by the rest of the cast. His character Arjun provides the subtle love story developing with Shushmita Sen. Arjun looked great although it can be criticised that he and Akshay looked too good to be blind men, but the movie is very much in this century, where not every blind person is seen as poor, although Paresh was given that role for good measure. Paresh Rawal as Ilias gives an outstanding performance. In Aankhen he is given the opportunity to shine whereas in many of his past films, he is the same old villain or the joker who is only there to provide the laughs. Ok so the latter point may be true in this film too but here it is the relationship between the three blind men that give it its subtle humour, allowing the audience to relate to the characters.
Shushmita Sen plays Neha the schoolteacher who is there to train the blind men. Not only does she look great on screen without the skimpy dresses but also her ability to carry out the role has to be her greatest performance so far. Although she does nothing outstanding in the movie that will leave you in awe of her, her acting throughout the whole film is consistent and you are left with no doubt of her brilliant performance.
The script is great and deserves a round of applause, the debut from the director has proved that he is one to look out for. The climax to the film is thrilling and makes sure that everything comes out completely intact without any details left out. Although it has to be said that although the ending is different it does leave the viewer unsatisfied.The music is not upto scratch and could have been improved.
Overall if you've watched Oceans Eleven this could be said to be the Hindi version. A must watch for any movie goer. If you want to see something different from Bollywood this is the one, hopefully more great story lines are to come abt, (heard Company is a good one to watch out for.
This is one Game that should not be Missed!!!
- sabrinnaqat
- Apr 16, 2002
- Permalink
Everything in the film was spot on, excellent script writing, excellent performances by all the actors Akshay Kumar, Sushmita Sen, Paresh Rawal, Arjun Rampal & Amitabh Bachhan. Although the film duration is 2 hours 38 minutes, you won't feel bored even for a minute.
- anupde-01262
- Apr 18, 2021
- Permalink
Very interesting and engaging. Must watch movie for many times. So enjoy it everytime,
movie with lot of great actors.
- anuragsharma-90028
- May 17, 2021
- Permalink
Considering this film has been adapted from my regional Gujarati theatre play makes me want to watch more and more theatre drama.
This film is an achievement in all senses. It has story (an absolute blast of a story), music (mostly works), comedy (definitely works), action (kinda sprinkled here and there), emotions (omg those scenes made me cry my heart out) and a peak antagonist.
The film follows the story of Vijay Rajput (Amitabh Bachchan), a man with anger management issues who is forced to resign from the ownership of his own bank after an incident of seriously hurting an employee who thereafter decides to rob the bank with the help of three blind people (Akshay Kumar, Paresh Rawal and Arjun Rampal) for the sake of revenge.
First of all, The casting choices for this film are absolutely perfect. Each actor embodies the personalities of their respective characters beautifully. The standout performer here is Akshay's character Vishwas. His character gives some of the most tense sequences in the film and he makes you believe that although he is blind, he is no less than an ordinary man, maybe sometimes even better. There is one more standout performer that is Amitabh Bachchan but I won't get into his character growth and development as to avoid spoilers, but trust me, you'll know he's a step above his usual game when you see it.
The screenplay for this film is also really well written. Although being mostly straightforward and linear with the story, it manages to slip in a few unexpected twists and turns here and there towards the end during a beautiful, clever and to some extent, a tragic climax.
There is but one flaw with this film that hinders its cleverness. I can't really explain it without spoiling but it was so simple and staring me right in the eye that it took me by surprise as I thought it would be something more intricate, or maybe that was rather the point.
Overall, a great film, definitely recommend and even a more fun time if you watch it with the whole family!
This film is an achievement in all senses. It has story (an absolute blast of a story), music (mostly works), comedy (definitely works), action (kinda sprinkled here and there), emotions (omg those scenes made me cry my heart out) and a peak antagonist.
The film follows the story of Vijay Rajput (Amitabh Bachchan), a man with anger management issues who is forced to resign from the ownership of his own bank after an incident of seriously hurting an employee who thereafter decides to rob the bank with the help of three blind people (Akshay Kumar, Paresh Rawal and Arjun Rampal) for the sake of revenge.
First of all, The casting choices for this film are absolutely perfect. Each actor embodies the personalities of their respective characters beautifully. The standout performer here is Akshay's character Vishwas. His character gives some of the most tense sequences in the film and he makes you believe that although he is blind, he is no less than an ordinary man, maybe sometimes even better. There is one more standout performer that is Amitabh Bachchan but I won't get into his character growth and development as to avoid spoilers, but trust me, you'll know he's a step above his usual game when you see it.
The screenplay for this film is also really well written. Although being mostly straightforward and linear with the story, it manages to slip in a few unexpected twists and turns here and there towards the end during a beautiful, clever and to some extent, a tragic climax.
There is but one flaw with this film that hinders its cleverness. I can't really explain it without spoiling but it was so simple and staring me right in the eye that it took me by surprise as I thought it would be something more intricate, or maybe that was rather the point.
Overall, a great film, definitely recommend and even a more fun time if you watch it with the whole family!
- sarthakbharad2926
- Aug 29, 2022
- Permalink
- deewanaakkika
- Aug 22, 2020
- Permalink