Bichhoo

Bichhoo

Influenced considerably by Luc Besson's Leon: The Professional, this Guddu Dhanoa-directed vendetta film is one of those typical revenge sagas with mindless violence, a limp-as-a-noodle plot, and uninspired performances.

In true Hindi film fashion, before long Kiran is smitten by Jeeva. A few reels later, Jeeva himself finds himself incurably attracted to Kiran. But before they can drive off into the sunset, they have those murderers to rid themselves of. Naturally, what follows are elaborate action sequences which bore you silly, and eventually give you that most predictable ending...

Bichhoo is one of those films that you've seen several times in the past, but is faster-paced this time around. In fact, at times the film moves as such a breakneck speed that you don't have enough time to think about the pointlessness of the entire exercise. Technically, the film is a step above those B-grade action films that Bollywood churns out week after week. Cinematography by Shripad Natu is memorable only in song sequences. Action by Tinu Verma is, at times, spectacular, but mostly overdone. A good example of that might be this scene where a hundred-man special police force is called into a building to overpower Jeeva.

The story (by Santosh Dhanoa) is entirely unoriginal, and mostly predictable. Most portions seem borrowed completely from Besson's film. Those that aren't, don't boast ingenuity either. The film is full of cliches such as evil step-mothers, and corrupt police officials among others. Music by Anand Raj Anand is upbeat at times. The Tote Tote

number by Shweta Shetty and Hans Raj Hans has mass appeal, and the Jeevan mein jaane jaana tune is also melodious.

Malaika Arora in a bit part is easily forgettable. Ashish Vidyarthi as the Narcotics Department ACP delivers a commendable performance, but tends to ham on occasions. Bobby Deol is mostly stiff, has a permanent scowl on his face, and is evidently uncomfortable in a thankless role. Rani Mukherji, meanwhile, playing a foul-mouthed tart who smokes and swears uncontrollably, is often loud, but is still the saving grace of this disastrous movie. She is energetic, and provides some lighter moments at regular intervals. Given a better script, both lead actors are capable of better work.

An improvement on Dhanoa's previous films, Bichhoo is nevertheless disappointing. Also, the significance of the title is lost on us. However, the film doesn't shatter any expectations, considering one wasn't expecting much in the first place.

-- RAJEEV MASAND