Indian, released in 2001, is a Bollywood action film directed by Shankar and starring Kamal Haasan in dual roles. The film tells the story of a father who goes to extreme lengths to secure a better future for his daughter. With its unique and thought-provoking storyline, Indian broke new ground in the Indian film industry and became an instant classic.
The Plot
The film revolves around a former army officer named Senapathy, who is on a mission to rid society of corruption. To achieve this, he trains his son and daughter to be agents of justice and sends them out into the world to fight against evil. However, when his daughter is killed in the line of duty, Senapathy becomes determined to protect his granddaughter, who he sees as the future of the country. He goes on a ruthless rampage against the corrupt officials who are responsible for his daughter's death, and vows to continue the fight until India is free of corruption.
The Cast
Kamal Haasan played the dual role of Senapathy and his son, while Manisha Koirala played the role of Senapathy's daughter. The film also starred Urmila Matondkar, Danny Denzongpa, and Mukesh Rishi, among others. The cast was highly praised for their performances, with Kamal Haasan's portrayal of Senapathy being particularly well-received.
The Direction
Shankar's direction was nothing short of brilliant, as he brought the film's complex storyline to life with seamless transitions and stunning visuals. The film's special effects were cutting-edge for its time and helped to create an immersive experience for audiences. Shankar's attention to detail was evident in every frame, from the intricate sets and costumes to the carefully choreographed action sequences.
The Music
The film's soundtrack was composed by A.R. Rahman and was a major contributor to the film's success. The songs, which were a blend of traditional Indian and Western music, were hugely popular and added to the overall impact of the film.
The Impact
Indian was a game-changer for the Indian film industry, as it broke new ground in terms of its storyline and treatment. The film's strong message of justice and its depiction of a flawed protagonist set it apart from other Bollywood films of its time, and it continues to inspire new generations of filmmakers. Today, Indian is widely regarded as one of the greatest Bollywood films of all time, and its influence can be seen in the works of many contemporary filmmakers.
Legacy
The film's legacy continues to live on, as its message of justice and its portrayal of a flawed protagonist continue to inspire new generations of filmmakers. Indian is widely regarded as a classic and a timeless masterpiece, and its impact on the Indian film industry cannot be overstated.