FILM PREVIEW: VIRUDDH (2005)

Director: Mahesh Manjrekar
Cast: Amitabh Bachchan, Sharmila Tagore, John Abraham, Anousha Dandekar, Sachin Khedekar, Sanjay Dutt (special appearance)

Radio Sargam Predicted Rating: 6/10

Although Mahesh Manjrekar has previously directed some impressive movies (such as Astitva and Vaastav), his recent releases have failed to create much impact. Let’s hope the situation improves with his forthcoming drama Viruddh, which stars Amitabh Bachchan, Sharmila Tagore and John Abraham. The film is also being shot in a shorter English version, which will be titled ‘Versus’.

Vidyadhar Patwardhan (Amitabh Bachchan) is happily married to his wife Sumitra (Sharmila Tagore). Both are retired – whilst Vidyadhar was a ground manager at Air India, Sumitra was a school principle. They live a tranquil and peaceful life together.

However tragedy strikes when their grown-up son (John Abraham) is killed after unintentionally witnessing some criminal activity. This obviously has a massive affect on his parents. Their lives change forever and the most testing struggle of their lives begin. Vidyadhar and Sumitra find themselves seeking justice in a cold and uncaring world, making them question their faith in human values and society.

Sanjay Dutt makes a special appearance in the film, playing the lead couple’s rugged car mechanic neighbour, who offers them support in their hour of need. Sachin Khedekar plays a corrupt police officer and VJ Anousha Dandekar makes her debut as John’s foreign girlfriend.

Viruddh film is expected to release in July 2005.

Written by Robeel Haq