Chakravyuh deals with a sensitive topic that should be thought provoking and a major cause of concern in today’s context. However, while watching this movie in the hall, there was only one ‘concern’…how much longer would this predictable, over-the-top, pretentious drama still continue!!
The trouble with Chakravyuh is that despite the context in which it is set, its treatment is completely commercial and unnecessarily sensational. What worked wonders in a movie like Rajneeti, is unconvincing and plain irritating, in this different avatar which required considerable research and a well thought out plot. In fact, as a friend of mine remarked, it is such movies that make you realize and admire the level of detailing and in-depth research that a movie like Gangs of Wasseypur had. This, however, is the same old wine in a new bottle and it just doesn’t work
In fact, the last line of the movie that comes in voice-over is probably what the movie should have started with and then told a different tale altogether. Chakravyuh chooses, instead, to just highlight the problem and then makes it a mere background for a clichéd story that has been told many times over. The one saving grace this movie could have had despite its ordinary plot and presentation, unnecessary item numbers and ill placed songs was to have convincing performances from the lead cast
However, when that brigade is led by Arjun Rampal you are heading for failure. Arjun Rampal looks the part sure enough..its the acting that’s the problem. Supporting roles and cameos suit him just fine but when he has to emote through clenched teeth dialogue delivery..well that’s probably expecting too much from him. The usually dependable Abhay Deol is also a touch out of place, especially in the latter half of the movie when his character and his voice lack a certain edge. Top that up with Esha Gupta’s amateurish dialogue delivery and the circle is complete. The only respite is the decent performance of Manoj Bajpai and the surprise package of Anjali Patel who also gives a credible performance
As per its name, Chakravyuh ought to have denoted a conundrum - a puzzling web with no straight answers. With what it delivers though, the answer is simple..Chakravyuh is not worth a hall visit
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