User reviews

Special 26 is a heist movie based on real life incidents of 1987...I considered watching this movie because of the director of A Wedesday..NEERAJ PANDEY..and he didn't fail to deliver...Heist movies in bollywood are generally filled with crap like glamor,show-off and pulling off practically impossible stuff...and thats where special 26 stands above all....Great direction, incredible acting, perfect screenplay and a great script made this normal heist-kind off plot into the very best of its kind that bollywood has never seen....

This fake CBI based concept is perfectly executed and what makes it standout is really good acting.AKSHAY KUMAR( who i consider bollywood's best)has finally found a good movie to do and he does it to perfection.But its ANUPAM KHER and MANOJ BAJPAI who steal the show with their perfect portrayal of difficult-to-play roles...the supporting cast does a fabulous job...except KAJAL AGARWAL...there was really no need for her character in the movie...

Special 26 will keep you at the edge of your seat throughout 2.30 hours and an incredible climax will make you appreciate the movie...Except for AKSHAY-KAJAL segments, which were really not needed in the movie, Special 26 is perfect in every department and regardless of the business it does at the box office(I really don't give a damn about that),this movie is one of the all time greats in bollywood for me...

He did it again. Though budget was seven times than "A Wednesday" (first masterpiece directed by Neeraj Pandey ) still it wasn't much hyped one ( or may be i don't watch TV these days). I came to know about this notorious saga when one of my friend messaged me to watch it . Thanks to her!! Its being ages since I watched well crafted ingenious Bollywood thriller( recommended to get over with trauma of Race 2). And that to con classic is a really a treat. And what makes it more interesting is "Based on real story" factor (though definitely more fiction).

The movie is set in late 80's (specifically 1987). For starting 10 minute never felt that its a con movie. Thought of some kind of vigilant drama. But then subtle revelation made it clear. Story moves with introduction of all characters. One thing which was perfect about the movie was the feel of 80's. Airports, roads, vehicles, hotels,places where people use to hide money, panoramic view of cities, clips of events from 80's, demeanor of characters (Pleat pants wore by Bajpai,simple sweaters even the watch wore by Akshay was 80's item). The perfectly executed raid scenes with money shelled out from imaginative places. Brilliant and unpredictable climax. All adding stars to this con epic.

Only week points were repetition of some scenes which were unnecessary, lady love of Akshay Kumar as per Indian Rule book, boring songs.

Good to see Akshay Kumar doing something good (small trivia Neeraj waited for this movie almost 3 years just because he wanted Akshay to play lead role and in return benign Akshay charged only half of his normal fees), Anupam Kher and Manoj Bajpai at their best. Others playing their part.

Final verdict : Watch it for intelligent con thriller, horse and buggy Indian days and Stellar Akshay Kumar's performance.

Rating : 8/10.

Movie name says it all, its special for movie lovers, awesome story, perfect movie. Everyone gave their best, there are no OTT actions or cheap comedy, no unwanted songs, not a remake from south, original script from perfectionist Neeraj. Akshay Kumar made an u turn with this movie, he should choose more movies like this instead of comedies where he can show his real talent. Manoj and Anupam was awesome. Bolly should make more movies like this then soon Bolly will be compared with Hollywood. the climax of this movie will make u speechless, awesome twist at the climax. Neeraj is perfectionist, his debut A Wednesday was awesome, now he delivers Special 26, like A Wednesday we can watch Special 26 again and again and can say What A Special Movie This Was. One word for the movie EPIC

You don't need almost 832 twists in a script to make it look slick and classical thriller. Neeraj Pandey proved it with Special 26. AND one more thing : All PANDEYz of bollywood please stay aside as this PANDEY is something extraordinary with his hand on script and direction. lets move back to film. film starts with a bang (Heist) which stuns you more because of body language of characters and the direction (ofcourse background score should get the praise too) film moves to some rom-com plot suddenly but without making you bore. First half was good but when the second half starts it takes it to another level. beyond our imagination and a amazing climax leaves you thrilled. film keeps you on the edge of seat throughout the 2 and half hour. astonishing sets,superb background score,tight script,marvelous performance and NEERAJ PANDEY. lets say the later NAME is enough to make you expect the unexpected. lets have a look to the performances : Manoj Bajpayee is amazing. one more time he gave his BEST and i don't think its necessary to say he is one of the most talented actor bollywood ever have. Anupam kher is also awesome with all his body language and dialogue delivery stuff. BUT this man AKSHAY was the show stealer. He did something out of the box and did it so brilliantly that you will remember him as his character name AJJU more than akshay. A film not to miss this weekend. All the abusive words got silenced and its a clean family entertainer with all the element to entertain and thrill you. missing such a cinematic experience will be a crime for a movie buff and bollywood lover. Rating : ALL THE STAR IN SKY

After having watched "A Wednesday" by Neeraj Pandey innumerable times, I stepped into the cinema hall with high expectations from his latest movie Special Chabbis. And Pandeyjee has managed to pull off another amazing entertainer with a fast-paced & exciting plot. This is one of those movies which keeps on lingering in your mind even after the climax and you keep going back to the brilliant sequence of events and how they were executed throughout the plot.

The movie is set in 1987 based on a true incident when a person posed as a fake CBI officer and robbed a famous jeweller at the Opera House in Mumbai. This incident forms the basis of the plot and how a group of conmen conduct false raids as CBI or IT officials to con politicians, businessmen and high profile people to rob them of their money. These heists are never reported as most of the money is black money and none of these high profile people want to be in the news for wrong reasons.

Neeraj Pandey after his directorial debut with A Wednesday completely redeems himself with Special Chabbis and reaffirms his position as a master director. He is definitely not a one film wonder and a director to watch out for in the future. The best and the most noticeable part of the film is the period that it has been set in. 1980's have been very effectively portrayed in the movie, whether it was the cars running on the roads or the streets of Delhi especially well known areas like the Connaught Place, whether it was the print style of the newspapers or the clothes and jewellery worn by the actors. The whole movie seems to be set in 1980 and all credit goes to the art director along with the director. I am still wondering how he shot in the heart of Delhi with all these props from the 80s.

The casting is perfect and each character in the ensemble of great actors delivers are powerful performance. Akshay Kumar has always been a great actor for me despite critics and so-called intelligent viewers writing him off. As the linchpin of the team he is subtle, intelligent and still manages to be funny in his own earthly way. This is definitely another feather in his cap with his long list of successful movies. Anupam Kher as a vulnerable supporter of the leader and a lustful old man (considering his long line of children) is superb and reminds of a perfect Punjabi uncle. Rajesh Sharma (Munjal from the movie Khosla ka Ghosla) as the third character fits perfectly into the well oiled team as the big guy from a Purani Dilli joint family. Kishore Kadam as the oppressed husband though a reserved role makes an impact. Jimmy Shergill's portrayal of a frustrated suspended police officer is very believable and you can't fail but empathize with the character of Sub- Inspector Ranveer Singh. But, Manoj Bajpayee is the actor which never ceases to amaze me. You put him any role and he shines, sometimes more than the protagonist. As a no nonsense CBI officer he again steals the show and gives another honest performance worth a standing ovation. Kajal Aggarwal (from Singham) is a pretty girl and looks pretty, however her character's contribution to the story is a little frivolous.

The climax hits you in typical Neeraj Pandey style which I am sure is fast becoming his signature style in his movies. Full marks to him for great direction, amazing portrayal of all characters, great plot, superb casting and above all perfect detailing.

Go and watch it, and I definitely can again. This one definitely lived up to my expectations and left me hungry for more (I waited till the end of casting hoping there would be another surprise scene at the end).

An amazing movie with a very good twist in both the starting and the climax part. All actors have performed well and the movie is worth watching. The amazing weekend blockbuster starring Akshay Kumar, Kajal Aggarwal and supporting actors Manoj Bajpay, Anupam Kher and Jimmy Shergill. This movie marks the comeback of the greatest action star Akshay Kumar in his amazing comic role + serious role. This movie depicts four characters who looted the money of rich people like ministers and jewelery shop owners who were corrupt by claiming themselves to be CBI and in other case as Income Tax Dept. This issue is shown in the movie which refers to actual occurrence of such robberies in the 1980's in India.

Finally 2013 has its first Awesome movie. Its been an year with all crappy movies so far. Special 26 steals the show easily.

The characters and actors have been so well chosen. Each actor has got the perfect character. The casting could not have been better than this. The direction is superb. So is the Art Direction. The story does not lag anywhere. So its a superb story with some really good editing.

Talking about actors -

Akshay Kumar - comes out of his day to day roles of khiladi and joker stuff. This is serious cinema which makes him a complete actor.

Anupam Kher - reminds everyone that he is still very much the same awesome actor as the one in 90s.

Jimmy Sheirgill - chooses the right kind of role finally. He perfectly fits the role of SI Ranvir Singh and also fits well in the 1987 plot.

Manoj Bajpai - as good as ever. Special 26 ka CBI inspector Waseem Khan is as good as Wasseypur ka Sardar Khan.

Kavya - hardly any role for her. Shes in the movie for songs only.

Divya Dutta - standard supportive role. does well.

Others - very well done.

Art direction for Delhi steals the show. the 1987 Delhi has been brought alive. details have been worked out well. 1987 Mumbai disappointed. I guess it was very tough to recreate that so the director and the VFX team chose the green screen. Thats the shoddiest part of the movie and hence i gave the 9/10 and not a full tenner.

Verdict : The movie can definitely been seen more than once at a theater if you get the tickets. It is gonna be a houseful for some days.

After A Wednesday, Neeraj Pandey is back with an intelligent script on a true life incident against corruption. It is a story of con men who looted black money of politicians, bureaucrats and businessmen by posing either as CBI or income tax officials. Power of this flick lies in tight script with a last minute twist. This is a perfect answer to Ocean franchise, we can expect sequel as well. After a long time, Akki shows his acting talent in totally new avtaar. Anupam & Jimmy plays his role very well. Manoj is full of power & very well lifted his role. There is no need of female character in script. Loose Point: songs, as there is no need to waste 10-12 precious minutes. Best Dialogue: Asli Power dil me hoti h. Last Words: It is an intelligent movie with best performances. You would not regret watching.

"A Wednesday" made me watch this and boy, was I surprised? Was I entertained? Hell yes, Special 26 is 2013's first serious cinema with no cheap humor, ridiculous stunt sequences or the typical B'wood masala. While Akshay Kumar is known for Housefull & Rowdy Rathore, this one plays different with a sharp plot-driven story and an even amazing execution on a real-life incident!

Cut out the romance, and this is one gripping, fabulously woven heist drama parallel to what we see in Hollywood flicks. Anupam Kher couldn't get more thespian while Jimmy Shergill & Manoj Bajpayee complement the cast. Direction, screenplay (so that you don't get bored through 2.5 hours), score, acting and every other film factor is thoroughly scrutinized in this. Now, what's even more Special about this movie is that - since the time gap between decent, "movie-wala" movies is so vast, that you just can't get enough of it. Paisa Vasool!

Originality in the thefts, corruption, authentic depiction of Indian locations and what-not, I could praise this movie and write a book moreover because it is 2013's one decent try.

BOTTOM LINE: I should not reveal much and spoil the broth. Because Special 26 cannot be missed. 100% Recommended but if you are a logic- ridden cinema-goer, you may despise it! Except some dumb plot holes and serious anachronisms, it is a good thriller. But don't expect it anywhere near to what "A Wednesday" was. 10/10

Can be watched with a typical Indian family? YES

Language: Mediocre | Sex & Nudity: No | Violence: No | Smoking, Alcohol & Drugs: No

It's been almost seven years before writer-director Neeraj Pandey decided to go back to the director's chair for what would only be his second feature film to date after making his debut with A Wednesday. And Special Chabbis, or Special 26, is indeed that special project that would lure him back, being once again a film inspired by true events, around a time in the 80s where identities of the taxman, and the policeman, were utilized by thieves in their respective heists against corrupt businessmen and politicians whom they know would not breathe a word on the loss of their ill gotten gains.

Akshay Kumar plays Ajay, whom we see as a Central Bureau of Investigations (CBI) officer, together P.K. Sharma (Anupam Kher), Joginder (Rajest Sharma) and Iqbal (Kishor Kadam) performing a raid in New Delhi together with local policeman Ranveer Singh (Jimmy Shergill) against a prominent minister. But soon this facade soon gives way that Ajay, Sharma, Joginder and Iqbal are none other than con men of the highest order - confident in execution, meticulous in detail, and able to cover their tracks really well in their many heists together. This is like Danny Ocean and his Ocean's Eleven, except that Ajay relies on a much smaller crew in their attempts to fleece, relying on quick wits to turn unexpected situations into opportunities of gain.

The crux of the story, once we get out of the extended introduction, is the cat and mouse game between Ajay and his crew, and that of CBI officer Wasim Khan (Manoj Bajpayee) who is determined to track them down and bring them to justice for ruining and embarrassing the good name of CBI officers everywhere. And in part this key assistance comes from Ranveer who had been duped into helping Ajay and crew, and possibly being the only one who can help identify all the perpetrators, who have so far stayed below the radar after the completion of each heist.

Neeraj Pandey knows just what it takes to make a heist film, utilizing key requisite scenes such as the planning, and execution, tossing in surprises along the way to keep things fresh and engaging for the audience, never for once knowing just how each attempt would play out, at times for light comedy, but most times in admiration just how an escape strategy got formulated, with audacity. What's best here is of course the true meaning behind the title's Special 26, where once it's fully explained, will wrap up the brilliance of the entire caper, which proved to be that ace up Pandey's sleeve, with a pace that never lets up, save for moments where he felt he had to balance the testosterone levels with the introduction of Kajal Aggarwal's character Priya, serving as token romantic fodder for Ajay.

I felt Akshay Kumar was badly in need of a hit, and a film that didn't requite him to play the joker. His filmography in 2012 was rather weak throughout, and for a hardworking actor who appears in more than a handful of outputs, 2013 might be off to a great start for his fantastic performance here as the master thief and schemer who is into his final lap, so that he can retire with his lady love and ride off into the sunset. It's not the first time Akshay's playing a thief, but it's clearly one of his best roles in recent years. And added to that is Anupam Kher's ever reliable performance in a supporting role, as the one amongst the gang who has the most to lose, given a large family to support, and the one who gets put in a spot to decide whether he should give in to the law, or stick by Ajay and his grand plan.

Special Chabbis / Special 26 is that crime caper that's all smart and serious, but never without a light touch when the situation calls for one. Perhaps the only weak points here were the song-and-dance interludes that felt forced and necessary, but would have done heaps better without these pauses in the narrative, mostly for romance to take place, and to flesh out more depth to the Ajay character. But in all honesty, it's the audacity of the crime that's being committed that we're here for, and to see just how, in true Ocean's Eleven style, these robbers get to wriggle their way out of trouble. Recommended!

I just have to say that they have got traits of several movies (Oceans Trilogy and The Illusionist to be exact). But they have woven a great story around a perfect plot so well, that one would enjoy every aspect of it. Yet another great work from the magician named Neeraj Pandey. Even Akshay Kumar's presence has been good, amazingly. Anupam Kher also have done a marvelous job, and so has Manoj Vajpayee. The cinematography and the BGM shot off the hook, while the special effects were quite lame.

The overall screenplay has so been so beautifully shot, and the basic plot being excellently set, one would actually enjoy this movie to its core. This is a great watch for all movie lovers. From within, I told myself while watching this movie, "Finally, an entertainer. And that too a proper one...from Bollywood, after a long period of time."

Neeraj Pandey, a 40 years old(young) man from a Bihari family background who shocked (pleasantly) many by his socio-dramatic thriller, the story of a common man, A Wednesday, is now narrating a story of 'con-men'…

'Special 26' based on the real incidents of 80s where a group of people posing to be CBI & IT official raided (robbed) many politicians, businessmen across the country without getting caught & also without any complain on the police records.

The story is predictable, as it is based on real incidents, but the film being a Neeraj's baby was bound to surprise you in the climax, going by the standard he set through his previous film. (it may remind you of Ocean's series of George Clooney & Brad Pit). Never the less, the script, the art direction, pacey screenplay, wittiness of the characters & a BANG ON background score by Sanjoy Chowdhary are they key elements other than the performances which will keep you hooked. The vision of Neeraj about the look of the film is also stealer… I haven't seen Connaught Place of 1987, I haven't seen Delhi roads of 1987, and many have not seen the Zaveri Baazar of 1987 in Mumbai, Delhi airport, Howrah Junction, Chandigarh Airport….Neeraj showed us all…Maruti 800, Maruti Van, Chetak Scootar, Matador, the telephone sets, & yes.. Ajay (the one who can never be defeated) played by Akshay Kumar carrying 'white pair of Shoes'.

Since, the film is based on the real events and because of that the director had restrictions as far as the plot and its execution was concerned. He had to stick to the actual happenings leaving almost negligible scope for taking cinematic liberties. Still, he made facts look like fantasy.

Performance wise, Akshay Kumar was well composed, did something refreshing, never went over the top (like he do most of time, and you blame only SRK)… he played a Khiladi, here as well. Anupam Kher is a master, was good as a 'fattu' conman. Jimi Shergil is good. Kajal Agrawaal, played the love interest of Akshay, has pretty face, but has not got substantial role in this thriller.

I believed Manoj Bajpai when he said that we haven't seen even 20% of him as an actor. This movie, once again, proves that he is among the finest we have. The rest of the actors did well with whatever they were given.

Music of MM Kareem is soothing. It's not a musical, 'Mujh me tu' stands out. The background music, as I already mentioned, is another leading character of the film.

Overall, Special 26 is a well-made, entertaining thriller with a little hiccup here and there which you may ignore considering other things about it. ***1/2

This is undoubtedly the best con movie Bollywood has ever produced. Bunty & Bubli, Bluffmaster all take a back seat when compared to this gem. The details with which every con job has been portrayed along the engrossing Background Score keeps you on the edge of your seat for most part of the movie. The romance angle was quite unnecessary though. They should have stuck with Oh My God & Paan Singh Tomar approach. If your story is good enough Indian audiences can forgive the director for not including forceful romantic angles in every movie. By interval you will be unknowingly rooting for the Bad Guys. The way the story ends leaves you in quite an awe. Good times await for Indian audiences and this movie is an indication for the same. Must Must watch for all.

All i say its more than worth to watch this movie.Super movie with full of entertainment and drama. Kajal aggarwal was not up to the mark in movie but standing ovation for Akshay,Jimmy Divya Dutta and last but not the least Manoj ji tremendous job by all of them.

All i say Kajal does a bakwas job she was better in singham. But movie full of twist and drama and u do not think to leave your seat. Bit boring part is the chemistry between Akshay and Kajal. And all four team members does a tremendous job. After a long time such a movie come. When 2.40 hrs gone i didn't come to know. My 3 favorite Dialogues:- 1. Asli power Dill main ho ti Ha. 2. Asli kaam to yeah kar rahe Ha hum to bus apni.... 3.full form of CBI is "Central Bank of India"

One time must must watch u will definitely have a great memory.:)

I have to say that this is the best con movie Bollywood has ever produced; and yes I've seen Doom I & II. After watching Neeraj Panday's directorial debut A Wednesday, expectations for this film was already sky high and he didn't fail to meet our expectations. An excellent plot backed by great acting from the whole crew except Kajal Aggarwal. I don't want to reveal anything about the plot in fear of divulging those great twists in the process. The songs were really poor and irritating and was interrupting the general flow of the story; the romance angle was a complete failure; and though Neeraj did a great job in picturing the gritty real life scenes but in some places they felt a bit dull and lack-lustre. Without those horrible unnecessary soundtracks and romance, this movie could have been bold enough to be compared to OCEAN'S ELEVEN. But overall, this movie is no doubt quite impressive and a must watch for all con movie lovers!!!

Special 26 is a very impressive film from start till end with minor bumps which if edited would have straight away landed it as the Best film of 2013 without even waiting for rest of the movies which will release. Neeraj Pandey has done it again, very talented Director. I am already waiting for his next flick.

Special 26 is executed really well with top notch performances from the actors. This movie will keep you waiting for something to happen. Will the elite CBI officer catch the smart con its better you watch it yourself. The movie has its share of light moments which are situational. Songs are not great and the love angle would have been presented better maybe but then you feel it more due the adrenalin the director has already built up.

Akshay Kumar is fantastic, Manoj Bajpee is as usual good, Anupam Kher great. Overall the movie is presented very well with the climax being the best a thriller/suspense movie can have. I am sure you will try and guess the climax but rest assured you will be served with a delightful climax which will leave you with may be a Smile on the face or "Hell man he is a genius".

I will go with 9/10 and you will know why the lone star is missed.

Special 26 starring Akshay kumar, Manoj Vajapayee, Anupam Kher in lead roles, is a brilliantly scripted and beautifully directed movie. It shows a series of heist happened in 1980s by a group of skilled thieves posing as CBI, IT Officials. Its a wonderful amalgamation of some serious burglary and comedy sequences. Most of the time it is pacey but director could have given more favor to chop off few songs. From acting wise, Manoj vajapayee and anupam kher being seasoned actors have performed brilliantly. But akshay kumar stole the show with his believable facial expressions , authoritative outlook and superb dialogue delivery. At last he is doing some good sensible movies after a series of rubbish ones like rowdy rathore and tees maar khan. He should concentrate on great and original scripts like this one, only then he can show his true self. He is a brilliant actor only if his choices can match that brilliance. Rest of the actors, Jimmy Shergill, Divya dutta and Kajal aggarwal have done well in their short supporting roles. All in all first good movie of 2013, i hope it crosses 100 crore mark and should set an example, other vise senseless movies like Ek Tha Tiger are the ones breaking records. I will give 8/10 for this gem of a movie.

Another classic from Neeraj Pandey. After The Wednesday I was actually waiting for his next movie. This time, its a Con Game. and he pulled it with a class. Be it the simple things like Telephones in 80's or Contessa, Premier Padmini car's, or the nostalgic colors.

From the first scene to the climax, its a thrilling ride. You would be glued to your seats until the last scene.

One thing that kind of not liked a lot is the love track, but i guess its part of story and again its my personal opinion.

I guess I am not even qualified to comment about the actors in the movie. Superb acting, great storyline and excellent background score.

Overall Simply Superb. Don't miss it

Neeraj Pandey's 'Special 26' is A Must See! A nail-biting thriller, that borrows its premise from true events. Its a solidly written, superbly directed & sharply acted film!

'Special 26' is based on a real life group of con artists who pulled off many clever robberies during 1980's, and robbed famous businessmen and politicians by pretending to be the CBI or Income tax officers, and on the pretext of conducting raids they would take away all the black money.

'Special 26' has an engaging first-hour, but a spectacular second. The twist in the tale is highly shocking but cleverly executed. Neeraj Pandey, Writer/Director of the 2008 cult-classic 'A Wednesday', delivers another winner with 'Special 26'. His Screenplay is solid, while His Direction is simply superb. Cinematography by Late Bobby Singh is excellent. Editing is good. Art & Costume Design are good.

Performance-Wise: Anupam Kher is gloriously scene-stealing. The veteran plays the paranoid yet sly fake CBI Officer with remarkable ease. Akshay Kumar is a terrific actor & he's in serious form this time around. Manoj Bajpai is exemplary, as always. How good can Bajpai get? Jimmy Shergill is restrained. Kajal Aggarwal is fair. Rajesh Sharma is impressive. Divya Dutta sparkles in a cameo.

On the whole, 'Special 26' is a gem!

A Neeraj Pandey film post the classic A Wednesday cannot escape two major things associated with it unarguably. One is the huge amount of expectations among the viewers from his second film and the other is a comparison in their minds with his debut movie which was acclaimed all over unanimously.

This time the basic theme revolves around few shocking true incidents of 1980s wherein four people posing as CBI or Income Tax department men robbed several businessmen and politicians in the broad daylight and nobody even reported those fake raids due to the fear of revealing their unaccounted black money. The subject is no doubt a well chosen one which also has been made into a fine exciting thriller which would surely entertain majority of viewers interested in this particular genre. The fantastic initial 30 minutes impress you a lot and then you get into the mood of watching an engrossing heist tale of four entertaining con-men who plan & execute their brave heists with great intelligence and confidence.

To begin with, SPECIAL 26 has an uneven first half with a forced in love angle and few good songs (taking you again into the clichéd Punjab) which I was never expecting in a film from the maker of A Wednesday (a song-less masterpiece). Anyway, to say the truth, the film would have been a much better, focused and inspiring tale to watch without all these silly, forced in sequences.

In the second half, though there is another song to continue the avoidable teasing, still Neeraj gets back on his track soon and then gives you a shocking climax in the end breaking all the norms of such con-films made in Indian Cinema till date. The twist in the tale makes you sit straight and forces you to think that how they actually did it. Yet here once again I would like to say that S26 will surely be appreciated more by the lovers of this particular genre only because the film has a major part of its content without dialogues with just the pulsating background score keeping the energy alive and the actors performing their act on the screen silently. Hence it's basically a film, which is more concerned about its rare plot in the script and less about the actors performing their roles on the screen (as it should be).

Apart from its exceptional execution SPECIAL 26 also excels in its department of Cinematography and Art Direction showing the cities of Delhi, Mumbai and Calcutta in the late 80s almost perfectly. To give you the feel of that developing era, the essence of those times is well taken care of with all Maruti 800s, Fiats, Black Autos, the old Connaught Place (partially), Best Buses & Bus Stops in Bombay and Trams in Calcutta shown clearly in all the long and close outdoor shots taken elegantly. Further its also nothing short of an achievement made by the director that despite of being a film about con-men, police and thieves performing some big crimes, there is not even a single scene of blood- shed, murder or gun-shots. So visually too it's a great work done by the team lead by the talented Neeraj Pandey which needs to be watched keeping in mind the obvious points (like there were no communication sources at that time other than the fixed line government allotted telephones in our homes).

Musically, S26 didn't require a romantic plot and the songs at all even if they do give you some listening pleasure for few moments (like Kaun Mera) . The songs hinder the pace of this crime-chase thriller hugely and they have clearly been added to suit the image requirements of the lead hero.

Akshay is in terrific form in the film and emotes well in all kinds of scenes in the script, which is far different and ahead than most of his recent mindless comedies. But in case, the romantic angle was in reality forced by him only then its pretty evident that he was not 100% confident about the genre of S26 and its success right from the beginning. Both Manoj Bajpayee & Anupam Kher give another splendid performance of their bright careers as expected. Jimmy Shergill is efficient and same can be said about Rajesh Sharma and Kishore Kadam who mostly remain silent throughout the film.Kajal is wasted in a forced role and Divya Dutta shines in her small cameo.

Having said that the film still has many big flaws(like the real identity of Anupam and his residence already known to Police, still he manages to fly away with his wife) which force me to rate it a bit lower than desired. However one can enjoy it surely if he wishes to ignores these big open loopholes in its entertaining script. So due to that very reason SPECIAL 26 remains a fine heist thriller from Neeraj Pandey which can surely be considered as A TUESDAY after his A Wednesday and not A THURSDAY.

Special 26 Story line is great, beginning is very slowly and editing poor and not cinematic but Story line great.