Review of Sarfarosh

Introduction

Sarfarosh is a provocative and well thought of film. Though produced back in 1998/1999 it still manages to relate to issues and problems still seen presently in India (and worldwide).

The film opening sequences is perhaps one of the most imaginative techniques seen to establish a plot. It creates the film themes and plots details within the first five minutes and lets the audience know what they are about to experience for the next three hours, and never lets them down. The opening scenes show what methods are used to smuggle the guns from Pakistan into the Indian cities. It then further shows how the guns are used for criminal activities, supported by the Pakistani Army to create havoc within their rival country.

While it may be argued that it is easy to point the finger towards the Pakistani Army, showing them as barbaric and insensitive, the film is played as a patriotic movie and with all films of such nature elements of prejudices is seen as conventional. But what makes this film stand out from other patriotic films is the way the film shows how concealed these types of crimes are. It is dealt in a detailed, plausible, and compelling manner. Never have I seen an Indian film of the same themes like this. Not even the multimillion-rupee blockbuster Border touched the line this film does. More importantly, what made the film so unique was the way it examines issues like personal morality, ethics and even spirituality, usually unheard of in a Hindi film of this sort. Sarfarosh can also be described as a political drama at its most forceful, as political and public establishments, such as the police, are viewed in a realistic sense.

Aamir Khan`s performance is quite gripping; he fascinates us from beginning to end. Mukesh Rishi as the Muslim Inspector commands an equal performance. The talented theatrical actor Naseeruddin Shah never lets us down and showcases us some of his dark sides. Glamour girl Sonali Bendre adds some light humour to the serious film and only appears in some minor scenes. Despite her limited scenes she leaves quite an impression. Her appearance in the song ‘Jo Hal Dil Ka’ will be one of Indian cinema’s memorable images. The rest of cast were just as good as they could be and with the help of the dynamic screenplay and dialogues they shine.

The song score by Jatin-Lalit are both melodious and soulful, and become part of the film`s overall structure without boring the audience. The ghazal sung by Jagit Singh is a moment in the film, which will delight the audiences. The editing and cinematography had impact, while other aspects of production values stood out.

The intellectual ending of the film is excellent and provides a wonderful debate for audiences. It also showcases that the problem of terrorism will continue regardless of the police, governments, and even the law-abiding citizens. Certainly an Indian film that must be seen!

Video

The DVD is presented in a widescreen aspect ratio of 2:20.1, in a non-anamorphic transfer. As the film is not presented as the director intended the picture presented some minor cropping. It is not that major issue as only around 6% is missing, but it would have been nice if the film were presented in its original aspect ratio of 2.35:1 with an anamorphic transfer. Still the DVD gives a wonderful picture that I’m very pleased with.

The picture seems to be in good condition with only minor wear and tear in the form of dust particles that doesn`t interrupt or spoil viewing. There are no signs of any compressed artefacts but some light film grain can be seen in places. However they do not intrude as it adds to the gritty plot and look of the film.

The colour fidelity is impressive, preserving the gold-tone colours that the director used. As a result the green and yellow colours during the desert and forest scenes stand out more, as it did on its cinema release. There are no signs of any major colour bleeding or distortion. Dark shadows and details are also reliable, revealing some detail.

Some softness and shimmering can be detected but they are not too distracting. Also not distracting is the moiré effect founded on some of clothes worn. The picture on the whole is not bad considering it is non-anamorphic.

Audio

The soundtrack on this DVD is of a Dolby Surround Hindi track, as it was on the cinema. Here the soundtrack is clear and audible, makeing a perfect company while viewing the visual aspect of the film. No sound distortion was heard on this DVD.

Features

The DVD has English Subtitles, but the songs have not been translated. Still the subtitles help audiences in a clear manner, and will make them enjoy the film on the scale Hindi speaking audiences did.

Menus are still and dull, but easy to navigate over.

Conclusion

Some improvements on the DVD could be made, but since this film won`t be re-released in the near future I am pleased with what I see and hear on this disc. Recommended.