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Daata is a Bollywood action drama film released in 1989, directed by Sultan Ahmed and featuring a star-studded cast with Mithun Chakraborty, Padmini Kolhapure, and Shammi Kapoor in leading roles. As a film from the late 1980s, Daata reflects the cinematic trends of the era, especially the penchant for combining high-octane action with melodrama and musical interludes, characteristics that have often been associated with mainstream Bollywood films of that time period.

The story of Daata revolves around Dinanath, a humble teacher portrayed by Shammi Kapoor, who is highly respected in his community for his integrity and altruistic nature. Dinanath's life takes an unexpected turn when he crosses paths with a villainous character who harbors nefarious designs against the simple and peace-loving villagers. The antagonist's oppressive tactics pose a grave threat to the harmony and livelihood of the village, making life increasingly difficult for its inhabitants.

Enter Mithun Chakraborty's character, who is introduced as a charismatic and skilled young man capable of standing up to injustice. His role is central to the narrative, embarking on a mission to protect the vulnerable and fight against the tyranny that looms over the village. Chakraborty, known for his dynamic screen presence, performs his role with the vigor and intensity that his fans had come to expect from him during his extensive career as an action hero.

Padmini Kolhapure plays the film's leading lady, adding a dimension of romance and emotional depth to the storyline. Her character is crafted with layers that allow her to showcase a range of emotions, from love and compassion to strength and resilience. The relationship between her character and Chakraborty's serves as an evolving subplot that adds a personal stake to the larger narrative of justice and retribution.

The story further unfolds through a series of twists and confrontations, each designed to keep the viewer on the edge of their seat. In classic Bollywood fashion, the movie is punctuated with musical numbers that not only provide a respite from the tension but also enrich the film with the cultural vibrancy of Indian cinema. The songs, composed by the duo Kalyanji-Anandji, feature evocative lyrics and are brought to life through captivating choreography and vibrant set pieces. These musical interludes contribute to the overall entertainment value of the film and reflect the character's emotions and the narrative's progression.

One of the compelling aspects of Daata is how it handles themes of social justice and the triumph of good over evil. The plot, though set in the fictional village, mirrors the larger struggle against corruption and injustice seen in many societies. The community's resilience in the face of oppressive forces serves as a metaphor for the enduring human spirit, a common thread in the narrative tapestry of Indian cinema.

The director, Sultan Ahmed, uses the visual language of mainstream Bollywood cinema to engage audiences, crafting scenes that emphasize dramatic tension, heroic action, and the stark contrast between the values represented by the protagonist and those of the antagonist. The cinematography further reinforces these themes, often focusing on vast landscapes and staging elaborate action sequences to capture the essence of the narrative's conflict.

Supporting actors fill out the ranks of the cast, contributing to both the film's lighter moments and the gravity of its more serious themes. Each character, no matter how small the role, plays a part in the ecosystem of the village, contributing to the film's portrayal of a community fighting against all odds for its survival and dignity.

Daata stands as a testament to the kind of storytelling that connected with audiences of its time. Its elements of action, drama, romance, and musical entertainment come together to create a recipe that was well-loved and replicated across many films in that era. While its formula might seem familiar by today's cinematic standards, it holds a certain nostalgic charm and historical significance in the evolution of Bollywood cinema.

As a movie from the late '80s, Daata reflects the ethos of its time, etching its characters and themes into the psyche of the audience with the determination and vibrancy that could inspire and resonate with many. It is a film that simultaneously entertains and speaks to broader social ideals, which has been a hallmark of many classic Bollywood films.

Daata is a 1989 action movie. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 4.8.