Yeh Saali Zindagi

Since '1:40 Ki Last Local' (the last black comedy from Hindi cinema that made me laugh out loud numerous times), I haven't seen anything as funny, creative, clever and wicked of the same genre in Hindi films until 'Yeh Saali Zindagi' came along. The title itself is hilarious and so is the movie. It's a fresh and a very much needed change from the silly better-forgotten so-called comedies that Bollywood has overloaded the audience with.

'Yeh Saali Zindagi' is a thrill to watch. It works very well on multiple levels, mainly as a modern film noire with a doze of dark humour. I found the style of narration mixed with the slick editing to be quite innovative. The use of voiceovers, flashbacks and fantasy sequences is cleverly done. The writing is terrific and it produces some memorably hilarious dialogues.

Sudhir Mishra grabs the viewer's attention from the very beginning with an opening sequence where we see a bleeding and disoriented and delirious Irfan Khan being comforted by the ravishingly hot Chitrangda Singh.

The execution is first rate. It's very well-paced. The songs and background score contribute well to the mood and atmosphere and adds to the flow. The cinematography and light effects are super.

Irfan Khan delivers one of his funniest performances. It's great to see him back in a clever comedy after a long time and he does it very naturally. Superhot Chitrangda Singh is equally outstanding as the sexy, slightly naive, independent singer who always falls for the wrong guy. Arunoday Singh, Sushant Singh, Yashpal Sharma, Aditi Rao Hydari, Saurabh Shukla and especially Prashant Narayanan provide excellent support.

The only little flaw are the kiss/love scenes of Kuldeep and Shanti. They do look more passionate than the usual love scenes in Bollywood films but they lacked spontaneity and felt choreographed.

Ticklish and wickedly energetic, 'Yeh Saali Zindagi' is refreshing entertainment. I wish more directors will make such films. Hats off to Mishra, his cast and crew for two hours of non-stop fun.

When I watch gangster capers like Yeh Saali Zindagi, I am never quite sure how to go about reviewing the movie without giving away the essence of it. Because none of these movies have much of a story in the traditional sense. But they make up for the lack of a depth with their movie-making style – and packing the script with quirky characters Which Yeh Saali Zindagi has by bucketloads. Beginning with Irrfan Khan, a crooked account par excellence who helps arms dealers, politicians and other unsavoury characters stash away their moolah. He might be exceedingly clever in the ways of the world, but the wiles of women are completely beyond him, as he discovers, hanging from his 30th floor balcony in the opening scene of the movie. Holding the end of the rope is his boss, Saurabh Shukla – who doesn't think much of the womankind and their wily ways – and nor does he care about his promises to his employees.

The opening scene of the movie might be a bit of a shock to some – given the coarse and vulgar language in it. Sudhir Misra's writing and editing is crisp – so you have to follow the movie carefully to understand the twists and turns of the script. Those squeamish about vulgar Hindi words are better off not watching the movie – and those with weak Hindi should probably brush up their abuses. Because the dialogues in Yeh Saali Zindagi are really profane – and all the fun is lost if you don't understand the dirty jokes – of which there are plenty The humour is irreverent (and of course very rustic). Death and violence are casually treated, and the background narration by Irrfan adds dry deadpan humour to the proceedings. There are mandatory backstories for most characters – and jumps between them quite abrupt – hence requires full concentration.

Essentially there are two stories running in parallel in the movie – Irrfan & Chitrangada's love track and Arunoday & Aditi Rao's marriage track. Irrfan and Chitrangada need no introduction. Arunoday is ex-Cabinet minister Arjun Singh's grandson while Aditi Rao is the bua from Delhi 6. Both of them are quite the revelation – Arunoday showcasing his good physique and acting and Aditi Rao coming across as quite smouldering despite her cute Nauheed-Cyrusi-looks. In fact there is a constant sexual tension between her and Arunoday, resulting in about a dozen slaps and two dozen liplocks in the movie But Chitrangada Singh takes all the male attention as the sultry and smoking-hot singer Priti. She forms the linchpin of the movie – not very different from her debut movie Hazaaron Khwaishein Aisi – where two men are vying for her charms. The difference is that Yeh Saali Zindagi has a busload of other weirdos – gangster brothers Bade & Chhote, corrupt cop Satbeer and the motley group of henchmen.

This is not Sudhir Misra's most serious movie by a mile – but the director seems to be having fun here. There script is manic, punctuated by languid frames of Chitrangada - yet there is an air of nonchalance through out the movie which stands it in good stead over other movies of its genre. In comparison, Kaminey feels almost formulaic. And because of its exaggerated eccentricity, this movie will not appeal to everyone. But if you keep up with it, Yeh Saali Zindagi will reward you will a tumultuous thrilling ride packed with a lot of fun.

You can read more of my reviews at http://bombaycinephile.blogspot.com

Sudhir Mishra's Cinema appeals only to his fans. He is known, but he has never been a top-grade, filmmaker. Looking at his career, I seriously thought he was majorly over-looked, and I always wondered if he will ever get the name he kinda deserves.

'Yeh Saali Zindagi' is Mishra's only Box Office Success in years. This is a path-breaking film for him, as it made money at the ticket window.

I enjoyed 'Yeh Saali Zindagi'. Though this one is a overly abusive & twisted fare, what stands as a plus in this romantic-drama, is it's writing. The first hour is power-packed. The second hour gets confusing at times, but a satisfying climax leaves you happy.

Mishra's direction is quite good. The screenplay packs in memorable dialogue. The Cinematography comes across well, while the music is a mixed bag. Editing is alright.

Acting-Wise: Irrfan Khan does a good job. Arunoday Singh is impressive. Chitrangda Singh & Aditi Rao Hydari are passable. Sushant Singh is absolutely Fantastic, and quite frankly owns the film. Saurabh Shukla is fun. Prashant Narayanan is morbid, while Yashpal Sharma leaves a mark. Vipin Sharma does well. Others support well.

On the whole, This is some Good Stuff.

Superb movie, far better the SRK's love Fictions, having no base and all non realistic, irrelevant Bakwas. its adult movie but lot to learn from it. Actual words used which we hear in normal life, with Irfan khan at his best. Sudhir Mishra's Yeh Saali Zindagi initially made waves for its cast, then its slightly derogative title and lastly its 22 kisses. As the director fought tooth and nail for each of the above issues, he eventually managed to wriggle of them. Chitrangda Singh looks and plays the part exceedingly well. On screen she brings life to her role with her fiery attitude and feisty persona. Now only if the industry would utilize her more! Arunodhay Singh displays immense talent and shows much promise. The rest of the cast provides great support too.

Well my best movie of the season so far. There was no hype surrounding the movie and i went with a neutral mind. It definitely made me laugh.

There's something about Irfan Khan. Sometimes i find him one dimensional but no one could have carried this movie but him. His portrayal of a hopeless lover with undying devotion would tickle you. His devotion and unconditional love inspite of knowing the girl is not interested but using him would make you adore him.

The story is tight and there is not a dull moment. All the hoopla may seem meaningless at times but will keep you glued. I watched it on theater and came out happy.