Cast: Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Vicky Kaushal, Shobhita Dhulipala, Vipin Sharma
Director: Anurag Kashyap
Rating: 3/5
Raman Raghav 2.0, the latest film by Anurag Kashyap released in theaters on 24 June 2016. The film stars Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Shobhita Dhulipala and Vicky Kaushal in the lead roles.
Raman Raghav 2.0 Review – Story
We have all seen movies where cops and crooks are the two sides of a coin. That’s exactly what the psychological thriller, Raman Raghav 2.0 is about. The cat and mouse game between the serial killer Ramanna and the cop Raghavendra Singh forms the plot of the film.
Raman Raghav 2.0 Review – Gory goodness galore!
The central character, serial killer Ramanna’s story is based on the real-life serial killer Raman Raghav who infested the streets of Mumbai in the late 1960s. Ramanna loves killing and uses a metal rod to bash his victim’s skulls leaving behind mashed blood and bones. Although the subject is graphic, the film doesn’t spend much time on the gory details. However, you are bound to be shocked as you watch the horror that is being unleashed on screen. Fear will creep in slowly and you will find yourself asking what kind of a human being can inflict such unspeakable violence on another human without a hint of remorse?
The other central character who is Ramanna’s nemesis is the careless cop Raghavan. He suffers from drug addiction. Raghavan has a take it or leave attitude and lack of respect and this is best highlighted through his relationship with his girlfriend. He is also constantly held responsible by his girlfriend for the three abortions she had to undergo.
That is when you realize both of them have a lot in common. Both the cop and the serial killer are a result of the patriarchal mindset of the society. Not only that, these misogynists also come from the same rotten environment be it the decaying middle-class family of Raghavan or the foul slums of Ramanna.
Raman Raghav 2.0 Review – Performances
As the serial killer Ramanna, Nawaz is absolutely brilliant. His portrayal of a crazy, cold hearted pervert is spot on. Siddiqui’s performance definitely deserves a standing ovation as he truly looks menacing with his glowing eyes and the scar that runs down his forehead. Whenever you see him on screen, a chill runs down your spine.
Masaan actor, Vicky Kaushal is in top form too. His portrayal of a careless, high on drugs cop with a dark side is fantastic. Even though Nawazuddin steals every scene that he is in, Vicky also manages to stand on his own.
Raman Raghav 2.0 Review – Good
The competent and brilliant acting of the leads is definitely the strength of the movie. The music also deserves a mention.
Raman Raghav 2.0 Review – Bad
However, Raman Raghav 2.0 fails because it doesn’t explain the motivation behind the two character’s actions. The characters aren’t developed fully and we only get glimpses into their background.
Raman Raghav 2.0 Review – Verdict
It would have been good to know what made Ramanna into the killer that he is, what makes him to do the things he does. We do get to know of his disturbed past through Ramanna’s interactions with his sister, but it isn’t explored fully.
Is the movie good? Yes, it is. Is it brilliant? No, Anurag Kashyap’s film is heavily dependent on the top notch acting of its leads. Without their powerful performances, the film would have been mediocre. Nevertheless, despite its few flaws, the film is a good thriller full of energy. Watch it for Nawazuddin’s brilliant acting!
Raman Raghav 2.0 Trailer
source: YT / FuhSePhantom