1971

Director: Amrit Sagar
Year: 2007
Country: India
Cast: Manoj Bajpai, Ravi Kishan, Deepak Dobriyal, Chittaranjan Giri.
Rating: **** (out of ****)

Inspired by true events, the film revolves around six daredevil Indian soldiers who plan to escape from the Pakistani prison and risk death with honour and courage. The best thing about 1971 is it's uncompromising look at the grim situation of Indian soldiers at those secluded barracks in Pakistan. The story almost never loses it's track.

I have to mention the stupendous work of production designers, particularly the barracks recreated in Manali look strikingly authentic. Acting is laudable, all the supporting cast is superb. Chirantan Das' camera work is adequate. But, I think, judicious use of hand-held camera, particularly in chase sequences would have added to the impact. The only problem I've is director's use of voice-overs when they are not required. voice-over, I feel, is a technique that should be used only when required to facilitate the viewer with insight of the character and not to tell him/her the story. Here it looks manipulative and unnecessary. It makes the viewer aware that he/she is watching a movie. Perfect example of apt use of voice-over technique is the movie Jarhead.

Undoubtedly one of the best Indian films of 2007 along with Johnny Gaddar. I'm waiting for next film by Mr. Sagar.