Good kind of controversy. Review on Black Friday

This controversial movie took a long time to get past various hurdles and make it to the theatres, only to be barred from screening within a few days. That only confirmed the jinx for Anurag Kashyap (co-writer of Satya) whose directorial debut, Paanch never came out of the cans.

Based on a book by Hussain Zaidi, the movie is about the Bombay (Mumbai) blasts of 1993, subsequent to the Babri Masjid demolition. After witnessing the crime, we follow the investigation till the case is completely cracked. Real-life characters, including Tiger Memon and Dawood Ibrahim, are used as is. The movie is even divided into various chapters.

The striking feature here is the level of reality. Emotions are stripped off almost completely and audience are made to feel as if they're watching real life on screen. That brings on the memories of the past, along with a detailed account of the happenings. Some facts, though known, prove shocking when you see them on celluloid. The screenplay is focussed, but the power of the subject keeps viewers glued to the screen. The documentary style can be boring for many though. Also, a few aspects of the crime could have been explained better.

All actors have done a brilliant job. Srivastava and Menon stand out, aided by the screen-time they get.

The minimal background score is done well. Art direction succeeds in recreating the Mumbai of a decade ago. Editing provides slick output while cinematography covers minimal area in each frame, both helping in retaining viewers' attention. Costumes and make-up add to the 'real' feel.

Such a movie is definitely educational, but showing happenings not yet established as facts in court is inviting trouble. The effort though is sincere and produces a rare gem.