Movie Review: Abhimaan

The late Hrishikesh Mukherjee has made some of the most distinct movies in Bollywood. There was no flamboyance in his cinema. It relied heavily on a story. I love such films.

Now this great director made two types of movies. Comedies and drama. Two totally different genres. Not many directors can handle both. 'Abhimaan' clearly is drama.

Instead of a full fledged review I will try to recollect some scenes that 'worked' and 'didn't work' for me.

1. The opening scene, with the best song of the film, works perfectly in setting up the character of Subir. Loves his success more than the money. After he does not need to, he has Chandru to take care of that aspect.

2. The prophecy of the great classical singer did give away the story. Having known the story beforehand I won't comment.

3. The most memorable scene is the one where Chandru returns to take Subir to his village. Chandru tells him about the child. But Subir is clear, he just won't go. It is a powerful scene with the dialogues spoken with a close up of Amitabh's face.

4. Uma losing all faith in life was not a bad idea for this movie. I generally feel that such 'tricks' help stretch the film beyond the customary 120 minutes and help in the addition of songs. However, here it was facilitated to get both Uma and Subir singing again.

My personal favourties of this great director are "Namak Haraam" & "Aashirwaad". In my books 'Abhimaan' will be second to them.

Rating: 3/5