Talaash (2012) Film Review

In search of who? That’s the real question.

Talaash is a stunning film filled with an ambiguous plot and complex story. With every new door opening, we are led to yet another mystery, secret and clue. But will the characters be enough to keep the audience moved?

Director Reema Kagti and writers; Farhan and Zoya Aktar both have created a new take on Bollywood. With bundles of crime, investigation and sparks of paranormal incidents, we are taken on a unforgettable journey.

Car accident scene in Talaash

Talaash begins with an establishing shot of an extremely fast car abruptly swerving into the sea, way past curfew. With a montage of traffic lights, street cars and gully views we are immediately familiarized with the big city ‘Mumbai’. In the car was the Popstar ‘Arman Kapoor’ whom never drives without his chauffeur, which is strange. The whole police department arrives, with forensics taking photographs and taking the car out of the water. Inspector Surjan Shekhawat attempts to solve this case and continues to grasp all the clues he can find. Though with no intentions of suicide, murder or accidental damage, Suri is left with no traces of suspicion whatsoever. Introductions of various characters develop along the way, which give Suri a clearer vision of what he maybe facing at the end of that tunnel.

Amir Khan in Talaash

Amir Khan whom plays Inspector Surjan Shekhawat, creates this promising character, of whom we immediately enjoy watching. His past memorable performances in 3 Idiots, Taare Zameen Par and Ghajini perpetuate his vast variety of acting skills and pure talent. He portrays this reserved, very serious persona type of guy, who is very focused on the importance of work. Though with past conflict of his son passing away, the struggle is evident on his face. Brilliantly, we can see how he is tensed, uncomfortable and fed up. His cold facial expressions and lack of gestures utterly signify his emotions.

Rani Mukherji , Shekhawats wife ‘Roshni’ propels this ultimate housewife character, whom seems depressed due to their mistakes. Though towards the middle of the film, we see her genuinely smiling, bringing her character to life and creating a depth vision of emotion.

Stretching out the scenes was a bad decision in my opinion. There were some very long scenes, in which were completely unnecessary. Thus the point when I was getting into the plot, we were bombarded with forced songs, drowning the meaning and action. Some characters definitely had more screen time than expected, which again delayed the pace and dragged the film.

Rani Mukerji in Talaash

Having said that, the climax in which was built up was definitely rewarded at the end of the film. The satisfying scene where the mystery begins to make sense was worthwhile. I have to admit that at first Kareena Kapoor’s character, ‘Rozy’ the undeniable prostitute seemed quite pathetic. Though gradually as the story began to develop, I figuratively understood why we kept seeing her and importance of her presence.

Amir Khan and Kareena Kapoor in Talaash

One of my favourite scenes was the flashback montage, which I thought was edited very well. Amir Khan is looking back at what happened to his son and we are promisingly triggered with memory. The scene follows Suri’s continues driving, injected with soft flashes of the past. This which begins off short and gradually expands, allowing us to understand what properly happened.

Overall, Talaash definitely should be on your watch-list. Even though I was expecting something more, the story provides a satisfying mystery tale, leaving you mesmerized. The cinematography and editing were impeccable, creating a smooth film which steadily flows. With moments where you are eager for the story to develop and get that ‘somethings-not-quite-right feeling, adds to the run-time. Though with some tweaks of improvement needed, Talaash is still a great film filled with a questioning plot.

Sources: IMDB

My rating: 7.5/10

Written by: Meera Darji