The film Aurangzeb presents a poignant exploration of the sacrifices made for love, encapsulated in the phrase, 'Sapna se badaa apna hota hai.' This gripping family drama delves into the lives of deeply flawed individuals who unite in their quest for happiness, only to be thwarted by a fate that is often more brutal than what we typically perceive as destiny.
Writer-director Atul Sabharwal crafts a narrative filled with rich complexities and moral ambiguities. The characters, bound by blood yet willing to betray one another for personal gain, inhabit a world where ambition reigns supreme. The film's cinematography by N. Karthik Ganesh captures the opulent yet unsettling landscape of Gurgaon, reflecting the inner turmoil of characters ensnared by their unattainable dreams.
Each scene in Aurangzeb unfolds a tale of treachery and violence, portraying individuals who abandon peaceful slumber in pursuit of restless aspirations. Initially, the plot may seem convoluted with its numerous twists, but as the story of twin brothers, played by Arjun Kapoor, and their stepbrother, Prithviraj, unfolds, viewers become attuned to Sabharwal's intense and explosive storytelling style.
The film's intricate design is filled with unforgettable moments, where nothing is as it appears, and trust is a rare commodity. The narrative intertwines illegitimate relationships with legitimate business dealings, highlighting the moral dilemmas inherent in corporate transactions. Characters are driven by an insatiable thirst for power and wealth, often leading to their downfall, as exemplified by Rishi Kapoor's portrayal of a corrupt police officer entangled in a web of crime.
Arjun Kapoor adeptly navigates the duality of his character, embodying both the sinner and the victim. His performance, alongside Prithviraj, who serves as the moral compass of the story, adds depth to the film's exploration of shifting ethical boundaries. Jackie Shroff's character, a criminal overlord, and Rishi Kapoor's corrupt cop create a compelling dynamic that blurs the lines between law and crime.
Supporting performances, including Swara Bhaskara as Prithviraj's wife and Amrita Singh as a scheming antagonist, enrich the narrative. Atul Sabharwal's direction pays homage to the cinematic legacies of Yash Chopra and Mani Ratnam, blending melodrama with authenticity in a way that feels both familiar and innovative.
Aurangzeb is a testament to exceptional casting, with each actor delivering memorable performances, particularly Rishi Kapoor as the morally ambiguous antagonist. The film's unexpected twists and profound dialogues linger long after the credits roll, inviting viewers to reflect on the deeper implications of the characters' choices.
While Aurangzeb may exhibit imperfections, its exploration of ambition and familial bonds resonates deeply. Set against the backdrop of Gurgaon, the film reveals a tragic narrative of lives lost in the pursuit of hollow dreams, ultimately leaving characters to confront the emptiness of their ambitions.
Rishi Kapoor, reflecting on his role, expressed discomfort with being labeled a villain, emphasizing the complexity of his character's motivations. He aims to portray the intricacies of human nature rather than simply embody evil.
