Mirzya

He is back, since the incredibly successful Bhaag Milka Bhaag. Rakesh Omprakash Mehra is a story teller and this is evident in his films be it Rang De Basanti, Delhi-6, Bhaag Milka Bhaag and at present in Mirzya with his version of Mirza Sahibaan for the new generation.

Although it is difficult for Rakesh Omprakash Mehra directed film but I tried to avoid all the publicity and went to see the movie without any expectations. Must say that good amount of time and effort has been taken be it locations, much talked about music by Shankar Ehsaan Loy click to listen) , story by Gulzar the name itself define perfection and casting Om Puri, KK Raina, Art Malik, Anuj Choudhry or the newbies Saiyami Kher and debutant Harshvardhan Kapoor all are brilliant.

Like Mehra’s other movies Mirzya also has two stories running in parallel — When the film flows, it flows beautifully between scenes, when it jumps, it really does jump. Both Harshvardhan and Saiyami are outstanding as actors. Both managed to carry the dual character performance once as folklore and other set in contemporary times and ensuring that each role is clearly defined but at its core remains the same.

Mirzya is Mehra’s version of Mirza Sahibaan for new generation. Movie has it flaws and its individual choice whether these flaws can be overlooked. There are certain aspects in this film that I am struggling with (I have never seen such glamorous looking blacksmiths) but I appreciate the simple fact that Mehra has pushed boundaries in terms of cinematography and ideas. It is difficult to take something old and essentially repackage it for the new generation, and this is what Mirzya is.