Watch Ek Phool Char Kaante

The 1960 Hindi movie, Ek Phool Char Kaante, directed by Bhappi Sonie is a classic Bollywood drama film starring Sunil Dutt, Waheeda Rehman, and Johnny Walker. Based on an intriguing plot, the film is a blend of drama, romance, and comedy, laced with gripping music compositions. The story revolves around the central character, Guru (Sunil Dutt), a young man who is framed for murder and sentenced to death. In a last-minute twist of fate, Guru is given a second chance to prove his innocence by the prison superintendent, who offers him a chance at redemption in exchange for his freedom. The condition is that Guru has to reform four criminals - Gafoor (Johnny Walker), Nagina (Dhumal), Lala (Rashid Khan), and Abdul (Jankidas), who are serving time in the same prison for different crimes.

The story takes a dramatic and entertaining course of actions as Guru takes on this monumental task of converting hardened criminals into responsible citizens. Along the way, he meets and falls in love with Mala (Waheeda Rehman), a young woman who has also been wronged by society. While Guru tries hard to change the lives of the four men, he also faces several challenges and obstacles, mainly from the prison warden and some of the prisoners who are not keen on change.

Sunil Dutt delivers a memorable performance as the charismatic Guru, who is charming, compassionate and persistent in his mission of reforming the four convicts. Waheeda Rehman, as Mala, provides a perfect foil to Dutt's character, bringing a sense of vulnerability and sensitivity to the screen. The chemistry between the two actors is palpable and lends authenticity to their onscreen romance.

Johnny Walker adds humor to the mix with his comic timing and portrayal of Gafoor, a thief with a heart of gold. His interactions with Sunil Dutt's character and the other inmates provide a laugh-out-loud respite amidst the drama and tension.

The music of the film, composed by Shankar Jaikishan, is outstanding, with several songs becoming popular hits. The composition "Ye Barkha Bahar Sautaniya Ke Dwar" sung by Lata Mangeshkar and Manna Dey, remains a classic of Hindi cinema even decades after its release.

The film is shot in a small village near Pune, with lush green fields and sweeping vistas that add to the overall charm and aesthetic of the movie. The simplicity of the settings and storyline makes the film relatable even today, despite being released in the 1960s.

The movie's underlying message is one of hope and redemption, and the central theme is one of reform and rehabilitation of prisoners. The movie subtly brings to attention the societal stigma attached to criminals and their potential to reform if given a second chance.

In conclusion, Ek Phool Char Kaante is a timeless classic that has aged well and continues to enthrall audiences with its timeless themes, compelling storyline and engaging performances. The film's messages of hope, redemption, and reform are still as relevant today as they were when it premiered six decades ago, making it a must-watch for all fans of Hindi cinema.

Ek Phool Char Kaante is a 1960 comedy. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8.