Kabir Khan delivers a yet another winner with 'Phantom'. An engrossing, action-thriller, that also has a patriotic touch to it. Though not without its flaws, 'Phantom' still packs a punch!
'Phantom' Synopsis: A disgraced Indian soldier carries out a series of assassinations (the evil heads behind the 26/11 terror attacks) in the hope of restoring his honor.
'Phantom' is an action-packed tale, with a patriotic punch to it. This is a story you indeed wish was true, as justice to served to those who caused a havoc. Khan successfully begins the film & mostly sustains the pace well, as the action is simply superb. The second-hour also engages you, with the final 30-minutes holding your attention completely. You root for the protagonist in his violent journey, which shifts from one country to another. However, Khan & Kausar Munir's Screenplay, which has been Adapted by Hussain Zaidi's book Mumbai Avengers, could've been smarter. The first-hour isn't crisp, as some of the sequences are uneven & even the escapism in this tale, is a bit unbelievable at times. But, otherwise the Writing is solid. The narrative is fast-paced & offers enough scope for some relentless action, which certainly works.
Khan's Direction is stylish. He has handled 'Phantom' with precision. Cinematography is lavish, capturing all the locales with flourish. Editing needed to be sharper in the first-hour, but is good otherwise. Action-Sequences by Sham Kaushal are awe-inspiring. Music by Various Artists is nice. Background Score is well-done, as well.
Performance-Wise: Saif Ali Khan is in terrific form here, enacting the heroic part to perfection. Its so good to see the talented actor in an action-ordinated role after a hiatus. Katrina Kaif is flat. Mohammad Zeeshan Ayyub is first-rate, yet again. Sabyasachi Chakrabarty is impressive.
On the whole, 'Phantom' isn't entirely power-packed, but yet it scores higher on pluses. Recommended!
