EK HASINA THI (2003)

Starring: Urmila Matondkar, Saif Ali Khan and Seema Biswas
Director: Shriram Raghavan
Producer: 20th Century Fox / Ram Gopal Varma
Music: Amar Mohile

PREDICTED RATING: 6/10

Bollywood's very own 'film factory' Ram Gopal Varma returns with the thriller Ek Hasina Thi, starring Urmila Matondkar, Saif Ali Khan and Seema Biswas. The film has a budget of $1.2million and hit the headlines during its launch because global movie giants 20th Century Fox have decided to produce the film alongside RGV. After months of hard work, the movie is now ready to hit the big screen and hopefully impress the audience.

Considering Ram Gopal Varma's involvement, we can safely assume Ek Hasina Thi isn't your routine Bollywood movie. However the story does begin as a simple love story. Karan (Saif Ali Khan) is a high-flying financial whiz who meets Sarika (Urmila Matondkar), a simple yet independent girl. They fall head over heels in love and plan their future together. It's the perfect love story…until suddenly Sarika is charged for a crime and refused bail. Her nightmare continues when she lands in prison. Karan vows to help his girlfriend find freedom once again, but can he really be trusted? To make matters worrse, a tough talking female officer makes Sarika's life hell. The situation leads to a change in personality for Sarika, who undergoes a massive transformation during the battle for survival.

Insiders claim Urmila Matondkar will impress the critics and audience once again with a powerful performance. The movie provides the acclaimed actress with a hat trick of great roles this year, following Bhoot and Pinjar. The supporting cast, including Saif Ali Khan (sporting a new look for the film) and Seema Biswas, is also strong. With innovative promos and a decent level of hype, lets see whether Ek Hasina Thi will prove success at the box office during its Diwali 2003 release.

SCHEDULED RELEASE DATE: October 2003

PREVIEWED BY ROBEEL HAQ