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Genius is a 2018 Bollywood action thriller directed by Anil Sharma, best known for directing the 2001 blockbuster Gadar: Ek Prem Katha. The film Genius marks the debut of Utkarsh Sharma as a lead actor, who previously appeared as a child artist in Gadar. Utkarsh is the son of the director Anil Sharma, making it a significant launch for the Sharma family.

The movie unfolds the tale of an intelligent and gifted young man named Vasudev Shastri, nicknamed Vasu, who has an extraordinary knack for understanding and manipulating technology and electronics. Played by Utkarsh Sharma, the protagonist possesses an innate genius and is shown to be patriotic to the core, exuding a vibe of an earnest youngster driven by a blend of progressive intellect and traditional values.

Vasu is an orphan, but with ample charm, he wins over hearts with his integrity and undying love for his country. The story follows Vasu as he graduates from IIT (Indian Institute of Technology), one of India's prestigious educational institutions, which sets the background for his journey into the high-octane world of national security and espionage.

The film co-stars Ishita Chauhan, who plays Nandini, the love interest of Vasu. Nandini’s character brings a romance angle to the plot, offering a glimpse into the softer side of the leading man, and adding a layer of emotional engagement amidst the heat of the action sequences. The dynamic between Vasu and Nandini explores the tumultuous path of love, aspirations, and the personal costs of being involved with someone who leads a life filled with danger and uncertainty.

Spanning beyond the central love story, the narrative entwines patriotism with a high-stake battle of wits and survival. Vasu finds himself embroiled in a confrontation with a powerful and mysterious adversary. Mithun Chakraborty, one of the veterans of Indian cinema, plays a key role in Genius, adding gravitas to the cast ensemble. His character is instrumental to the plot and challenges Vasu both intellectually and morally.

The villain of the tale is not just another stereotype but is portrayed with a certain depth, making the clash more than just about brute force. This antagonist brings forth a dark, cerebral challenge, pushing Vasu to the limits of his capabilities, and the battle between them is as much psychological as it is physical.

The essence of Genius lies in its exploration of a young prodigy’s journey, set against the backdrop of national service and the clandestine operations of India's intelligence network. The film delves into themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the fine line that often blurs in the shadowy corridors of espionage. It examines whether a person's genius can become both a gift and a burden, creating a character study of what it means to be a hero with an exceptional mind.

Genius is embellished with the traditional tropes of Bollywood, including foot-tapping music, vibrant dance numbers, and the melodrama that is often the lifeblood of Indian cinema. The soundtrack consists of songs that range from romantic ballads to energetic anthems, aiming to hook the audience emotionally and rhythmically.

As a director, Anil Sharma attempts to weave a narrative that combines the tech-savvy aspects of a spy thriller with the raw appeal of a revenge drama. It is a film that balances the cerebral aspects of high-level espionage with the poetic justice and retribution seen in classic Indian movies.

From a technical standpoint, Genius showcases the spectacle of chase sequences, combat scenes, and other components expected from a thriller. It employs a variety of cinematic techniques to engage the audience, using grand set pieces and locations to give the film a sense of scale. CGI and other special effects add to the captivating viewing experience, complementing the story as it unfolds.

However, Genius is not just about technical prowess or a display of intellectual might. It's also a journey of emotional growth, highlighting how personal relationships, love, and friendship play a critical role in an individual's life, even one who is caught in the complex web of international intrigue.

In conclusion, Genius is an Indian cinematic escapade that blends the emotional beats of a love story with the intensity and excitement of a spy thriller. Anchored by a young actor making his foray into lead roles, and supported by seasoned artists, the film seeks to carve its niche within the popular domain of Bollywood action dramas, offering a mix of advanced technology, romantic interludes, and a patriotic fervor that often resonate with the Indian audience.

Genius is a 2018 thriller with a runtime of 1 hour and 37 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.1.