NO SMOKING
CUNNING, BAFFLING BUT NOT POWERFUL
By Vishal Verma
Rating:- * *
What is it?
A psycho thriller about the state of mind of an addict told in a dark way blended with bizarrely humor. Got it ……… you will never get it. Cause it is impossible to understand the psych of an addict by any common human being. Anurag tries to tell it in his way and opts for dark black humor which is sometimes weird.
Some thinking caps may bombard Anurag’s cell phone with number of top psychiatrist in town. But I have an altogether different feeling. I would rather appreciate Anurag for at least making an attempt to showcase a different genre of cinema and story telling in bollywood.
What is it all about?
K (John) is so addicted to smoking that is has become impossible for him to live without it. However, he gets a rude jolt.
When fed up with her husband's craving for ciggies, his wife, Anjali(Ayesha) walks out on him never to return unless he quits smoking. It is then he decides to do something about his obsession. Recommended by his pal Abbas Tyrewala (Ranvir Shorey), he goes to meet Baba Bengali Sealdahwaale (Paresh Rawal), who runs a 'Prayogshala' -- a centre for rehabilitation from all sorts of addiction and afflictions. When he meets the Baba; he walks into an agreement he can't walk out of. Proud and desperate, K throws caution to the wind and challenges the Baba's diktats. However, he realizes that he can't escape Baba no matter what he tries. Until of course the contract is complete.
What to look out for?
Out of the box content and narration by Anurag Kashyap. He manages to show style even in bizarre scenes. Rajeev Ravi’s camerawork which is in sync with the feel of the flick. John Abraham competent performance.
What not?
General audience will not relate and understand Anurag’s state of mind on what is he trying to say. Ayesha Takia and Ranvir Shorey disappoint.