Movie Mania: Shamitabh

Shamitabh is a bad concoction of a superb voice and a lifeless face. Starring Amitabh Bachchan, Dhanush and introducing Akshara Hassan, the movie is for anyone who likes good acting which fall short because of a weak script.

*spoilers ahead*

The story revolves around Danish, a mute boy who aspires to become an actor and Amitabh, a drunkard, who also wanted to become an actor in his days, but failed. Danish moves to Mumbai, meets Akshara, an assistant director who tries to help him, seeing his acting sense. With the help of some transfer technology, Danish is able to speak if he has a speaker or a voice transfer. This is where Amitabh Bachchan comes in. Danish assumes the voice of Amitabh, an together, they are a successful duo, but nobody except Akshara knows that. All goes well until ego problems arise as to who’s contribution is bigger in ‘Shamitabh’ as he is known to the masses. Akshara sorts it all out and then tragedy strikes, and Danish dies.

Needless to say, the most obvious problems with Shamitabh is the name of the movie “Lifeboy” , one who cleans the nation. Also the idea of voice transfer is not convincing.

 

The saving grace of the movie is the strong acting delivered by the threesome. The movie is slow paced, and some parts get extremely boring, but then again, Amitabh Bachchan’s acting at those times is admirable, proving his flawless performances are not to be missed. And Akshara’s hairstyle is good.

The message the films delivers is very clear. That ego is the root of all problems. But I feel that it could have been better delivered if the script was heavier, stronger. And I’m still not over the fact that the movie doesn’t have a happy ending. Amitabh Bachchan’s acting, when he realizes that Danish is dead can reduce you to tears. It did to me.

All in all, it’s a good movie if you are a Amitabh or Dhanush fan or a fan of good acting in particular. Else, you should wait for it, or even skip it!

Advertisement