Nagin (1954) :
Brief Review -
Who on earth would have thought that the typical Romeo-Juliet story could be turned into a romantic blockbuster with a spiritual and mythological boost. We all know the basic story of Romeo-Juliet. Two lovers, from different cast/place/categories fight against their own people. That strained thought is made very dramatic by Nandlal Jaswantlal in Nagin. And unlike Romeo-Juliet, it has a positive ending too. From the title it might look like a fictional drama about snake stuff and all, but mind you, it isn't the one. It's a pure romantic drama set in the tribal area, which follows Nag traditions, that's all. But you see, that's what makes it different from the regular Romeo-Juliet romance. While watching it, I had a thought how people must have reacted to all that fascinating stuff, which hadn't been seen in Bollywood before, especially in the love story. And then I learnt that Nagin was the highest grossing film of the year and also one of the biggest hits of the decade. That's just what I wished for. The film is about two lovers who have to go against their parents to keep their relationship alive. Somehow, they keep getting separated, only to follow each other again. The hero constantly meets the heroine with so many get-ups and yet she recognises him every time. So many romantic moments, and what great music it has. 'Aaja Sawre,' 'Jogi Khada,' 'Man Dole' and that 'Been Music' are evergreen materials. I am still humming them while writing this review. Pradeep Kumar had already done "Anand Math" (1952) and "Anarkali" (1953), and so he excelled in the role of Sanatan. Vyjayanthimala got a big breakthrough as Mala. I kinda liked these names, man. You should have such names in love stories. Nandlal Jaswantlal took care of everything very well. Be it romance, drama, or spiritual and mythological references, he made a super-instant blockbuster. That long 15-minute climax was so mesmerizing.
RATING - 7/10*
By - #samthebestest.
