Movie Review: Wanted

Salman Khan is back with a bang with this one. I have read reports that this movie has struck gold at the box office. A much needed hit for Salman as he has had debacles like God Tussi Great Ho, Heroes and Yuvvraj in the past 1-2 years. The problem with Salman is that he is still doing the same roles as he was doing 10-15 years ago. The maturity that usually comes with time in a actor is not visible in him. Shahrukh and Aamir have raised their acting to another level altogether. Anywayz back to the movie.

Wanted is just what suited Salman Khan. A complete masala movie with not much thought behind it. A simple story of a guy taking on underworld on his own, as if he is a superhero or something. Salman is projected as a one man army (his name is kept Radhe to remind people of his "Tere Naam" fame). South Indian touch is pretty evident in many scenes which is because this has been directed by Prabhudeva. If you like seeing hero unfazed in all circumstances and even beating 10-20 people alone without any fear then this is the movie for you. Other South Indian touches are like a person traveling a long distance after being punched or kicked by Salman. The characters also exude similar touch as a underworld don, a female secretary to the don, an honest police commissioner etc. etc.

The main reason for me not liking this movie is that I hate South Indian movies and the Godly portrayal of their super confident heroes, i think it is too far fetched from reality and far too ridiculous (and in some cases stupidly funny also). But there would be a large audience out there who loves such things, that is why this movie has struck chord with the audience. Also Salman's star power adds to the charm. Salman's performance is decent and he doesn't do any stupid antics which we see him do in his so-called comic movies. The role of a cold blooded killer suits him, he gives good expressions and his superb physique goes well with it. Salman has a mass fan following and he would be able to carry this movie entirely on his shoulders alone. Ayesha Takia has a small role which is not that significant. Some scenes between Salman and Ayesha could have been avoided to give better pacing to the movie. Some songs also were forcibly included. Performances from Govind Namdev, Mahesh Manjrekar and the other cast is decent, they do justice with whatever they were given.

If you like South Indian movies in which Rajnikant, Chiranjeevi are portrayed larger than life then you would love this movie. For people who like to see some logic and reality, better stay away from it.