Shahid | Courage Reinvented | The Critique

When I say ‘Shahid is an important film’, it’s not because it’s an off-beat or alternative cinema. It’s because of the person whose life is brought alive on screen. Hansal Mehta deserves accolades for making a no-nonsense film about a person who realized the importance of human life the hard way. His impact might have affected only a few families, it’s a little piece of hope for entire humanity.

Shahis is story of Shahid Azmi, a lawyer who fought for people wrongly accused as terrorists. The movie is divided into two parts – first part where past of Shahid where he became a terrorist after a horrifying experience during ’92 riots. However, he return

ed to his senses soon. Then he was labeled as a terrorist and put into jail where he completed his education. He is acquitted. Here part 2 starts. In part two, he gathers his life and becomes a lawyer. Soon, he is disillusioned after seeing malpractices where money is primary and justice is secondary. He decides to change that and fights for people like him who are wrongly accused as terrorists.

Not for a moment director shifts his focus from real Shahid who is vulnerable and strong at the same time. Raj Kumar plays the character to the tee and delivers a career defining performance. Mohd Zeeshan has played second fiddle many times with excellence. As Shahid’s elder brother, he gives another brilliant performance. One scene where he vents out his frustration is a piece of gem. KK Menon and Tigmanshu Dhulia did interesting cameos. Shahid is backed by good visuals, good editing and impressive screenplay. Yes, it could have been better but only a shade or two.

Hansal Mehta #Respect

Written By: Sujoy Ghosh