WATCH THE TRAILER HERE
First, the Recap:
When it comes to family, it would be accurate to say that inciting any action placing someone’s relations in imminent, even perceived, danger is not a wise choice. In extreme circumstances, even the most normal, calm, and non-aggressive individual might find a new level of fortitude and ferocity in order to protect their own. Up in the soaring heights of the Himalayas, mountaineer, climbing guide, and settled soul Shivaay (Ajay Devgn) leads a quietly fulfilled yet adrenaline-fueled existence among the snowy peaks. As he ventures forth with a new group of tourist climbers, his attention becomes drawn to a young woman, Olga (Erika Kaar), with whom he soon becomes involved, even if for a brief time. Upon learning she is pregnant, the relationship turns sour, and soon, Shivaay is left to care for their child on his own.
Years pass and the life Shivaay has established for his daughter Gaura (Abigail Eames) moves forward without incident until a random situation causes her to learn about her mother and the reasons for her absence, previously undivulged by her father. Angered, the two ultimately head to Sofia, Bulgaria to try and find Olga, only to run afoul of human traffickers who ultimately kidnap Gaura. Trying to get the aid of the Indian embassy through IFS agent Anushka (Sayyeshaa Saigal), Shivaay soon discovers he has to take matters into his own hands, turning from his passive nature to become a one-man army of destruction raining down on the traffickers and anyone associated with them. It soon becomes apparent Shivaay will either succeed–or die trying.
Next, my Mind:
Anyone remotely familiar with lead actor/director/co-producer Ajay Devgn from efforts like the “Singham” series and “Drishyam”, among a multitude of others, pretty much knew what to expect from this 169-minute film just from the awesomely orchestrated trailer, and the full product does not disappoint or fall short in any way. Granting a fantastically written and well-executed mix of emotive drama with plenty of intense, totally immersive action sequences, the narrative unfolds with precision and engaging pace while treating the viewer to spectacular Himalayan mountain vistas and old world style in the streets and haunts of Bulgaria, willing to also glimpse into the seedy world of child traffickers, a sobering reminder of the evil in this world that needs put in check. Needless to say, the perpetrators here encounter serious trouble!
Devgn simply, flat out, and with his standard hold-holds-barred approach, absolutely embodies the character of Shivaay, deftly presenting a man whose true ideals and demeanor are one of peace, but who then gets unceremoniously thrust into a circumstance of his own making that then turns even worse once Gaura is kidnapped. Forced to become someone who he ideally wouldn’t desire to be, the rage and unbridled fury in which Shivaay goes forth in is potent and highly unstoppable, with Devgn making the most of it in each and every moment, whether being a father or eliminating enemies. Eames is completely believable and deeply effective as Gaura, showcasing a young girl who’s vulnerable yet fierce, earnest, and spirited, especially given the character’s one primary physical challenge, which is portrayed so powerfully by Eames.
Supporting cast contributes with excellent resolve and appropriate involvement in the overall story, with Kaar’s Olga being the lynchpin for the narrative’s greater, unfolding plot line. As the girl entertaining a crush to a new mother whose sense of responsibility initially wavers, Kaar portrays it all with poise. Saigal brings a likewise solid performance as IFS agent Anushka, whose hesitations about Shivaay and his radical methods of resolving his dilemma take a spell for her to truly understand and get on board with. Also present is Vir Das, who adds some fun and tech-savvy skills as computer hacker Wahab. Additionally, Markus Ertelt is the villainous lead thug, Sgt. Nikolai, who has a knock-down, drag-out fight with the film’s hero.
In total, “Shivaay” is one formidable, breath-taking, magnificent dramatic action effort that more than deserves a look. It is also proof positive that as this entire year of 2016 in particular keeps on proving–watch out, Hollywood, because Bollywood is here, it’s just as awesome, and it only seems to be getting better!
As always, this is all for your consideration and comment. Until next time, thank you for reading!
