Exploring the Legacy of Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai: A Cinematic Journey
A Glimpse into Mumbai's Underworld
Once Upon A Time In Mumbaai transports viewers to the origins of gangster culture in Mumbai. Director Milan Luthria skillfully crafts a tense rivalry between two formidable characters. Fans may recall the dynamic between Ajay Devgn and Saif Ali Khan in Kachche Dhaage, or the satirical interplay of John Abraham and Nana Patekar in Taxi No 9211.
In this film, the clash between Devgn's character (not Haji Mastan) and Emraan Hashmi's role (not Dawood) unfolds in a more intricate and demanding context. The screenplay, penned by Rajat Arora, delves into the gritty realities of crime, revealing the underlying darkness that glamour cannot conceal.
The film's vintage cars, costumes, and rebellious spirit are vividly portrayed, reflecting the essence of the late 1960s and 70s Mumbai. Luthria presents a cinematic realism that captures the era's nuances, creating characters that exist in a space between historical accuracy and artistic interpretation.
Subtle satire permeates the depiction of the underworld's emergence. For instance, Emraan Hashmi's character forms a relationship with a woman reminiscent of a Bollywood star introduced by Raj Kapoor, who was allegedly involved with Dawood.
Characters in the film are a blend of folklore and forgotten headlines from the 1970s. Kangana Ranaut portrays a 70s actress infatuated with a Robin Hood-esque smuggler, only to later reveal her congenital heart condition, echoing the story of Madhubala from an earlier era. Ironically, it is her smuggler lover who meets a tragic end.
While the plot is best left undisclosed, it maintains an authentic narrative without pretentiousness. The story unfolds through the perspective of a troubled cop, portrayed with remarkable restraint by Randeep Hooda, whose performance stands out as the film's highlight. He embodies both a noble law enforcer and a victim of a flawed system rife with inequality and corruption.
Hooda's character is marked by cynicism and bitterness, yet he finds humor in the gravity of his circumstances. Ajay Devgn continues to evolve as an actor, bringing a self-aware immorality to his role as a 70s gangster, balancing external detachment with internal depth.
Milan Luthria's attention to detail enhances the storytelling, although some elements in the latter half, like predictable club songs and repetitive editing techniques, may falter. Nevertheless, his mastery of the outlaw narrative is undeniable.
Emraan Hashmi effectively captures the essence of Devgn's uncontrollable protégé, showcasing the right look and body language. His romantic pursuit of Prachi Desai, set against the backdrop of 70s hits, adds charm to the narrative. As the story progresses, the female characters are somewhat sidelined, but the film's most endearing moments occur early on, highlighting the budding affection between Devgn and Ranaut, crafted with poetic dialogue.
Ultimately, the film's strength lies in its writing. Rajat Arora's dialogues flow seamlessly, blending poetic elements with street-smart wisdom. Aseem Mishra's evocative cinematography lends urgency to this gritty portrayal of Mumbai's intertwining with crime, making it an unforgettable cinematic experience.