This is a movie that has all the trappings of an action movie from the late 80s to the mid 90s with a couple unique elements, mainly it's overall very dark theme with no respite in terms of lighter moments, no lead actress and a tacky production coupled with veteran actors that lend it a theatrical appeal. That said, this is no groundbreaking cinema and the director is someone who I guess has an 80s hangover in terms of screenplay and editing. Now, coming back to the core aspects of this enterprise- acting, action, screenplay and direction. Acting wise, it has a lineup of some really good actors and most of them do a decent job but it's Salman Khan that needs a mention here. To be clear, I don't consider him an actor until this day, but he somehow manages to do well here simply because he has minimal dialogue which works pretty well, so I'd call it a win for him. A special mention for Akhilendra Mishra who brings out evil in a way that feels theatrical and menacing spread over with sort of extended dialogue that at times feel like monologue and has a fleshed out character. Action is generic but bgm especially in the ultimate face off is well done. Screenplay is not great and editing is hasty at times but not terrible. Direction is sub-par overall but works in parts especially in creating an atmosphere that is ominous and signals a sense of impending doom. Music is okay but "Jahan kabhi dil ne khayi thokar.." is very good. All in all a decent watch for action fans and while I watched it in my early teens it has stayed with me ever since. I never donned my critic hat on at the time as I just wanted to enjoy movies but I felt I had to put my views for this one.
