Watch Wrong Side Raju
- 2016
- 2 hr 10 min
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7.7 (1,086)
Wrong Side Raju is a 2016 Indian thriller film directed by Mikhil Musale and co-written by Karan Vyas and Niren Bhatt. The film stars Pratik Gandhi, Kimberley Louisa McBeath, and Asif Basra in lead roles. The movie is produced by Cineman Productions, Phantom Films and Siddharth Jain. The story revolves around the titular Raju, a driver for an affluent family in Ahmedabad, India. He is a kind-hearted soul who will do anything to help others, but he gets caught in a web of deceit when he is unwittingly involved in a hit-and-run accident. As the police investigation drags on, Raju realizes that his entire life has been turned upside down, and he is forced to confront the harsh realities of the world.
The film takes a close look at the social and economic inequalities in India, as we see how the rich and powerful can manipulate the legal system to their advantage, while the poor and marginalized are left to suffer. At the same time, we also see how ordinary people can stand up to injustice and fight for what is right.
Pratik Gandhi gives a standout performance as Raju, bringing an infectious energy and optimism to the character, even as the world around him crumbles. He perfectly captures the spirit of a man who is kind-hearted but naïve, and we can't help but root for him throughout the film. Kimberley Louisa McBeath is also excellent as Shaily, a Canadian tourist who is drawn into Raju's world, and we see the stark contrast between her privileged life and Raju's struggles. Asif Basra is convincing as always, playing the morally ambiguous lawyer who is on Raju's case.
The film is beautifully shot, with gorgeous wide shots of Ahmedabad's bustling streets and colorful markets. The music is also a standout feature, with a mix of traditional and contemporary Indian sounds. The film's pace is deliberate but never slow, and it keeps you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
One of the most impressive aspects of the film is how it manages to tackle serious issues without feeling preachy or heavy-handed. We see the injustices of the legal system and the struggles of the poor without feeling like we're being hit over the head with a message. The film trusts the intelligence of its audience, and it rewards us with a gripping and thought-provoking story.
Overall, Wrong Side Raju is a highly engaging film that is definitely worth your time. It's a rare example of a thriller that manages to be both entertaining and socially conscious. With its fantastic performances and excellent direction, it's no wonder that the film won Best Feature Film at the 64th National Film Awards, as well as Best Gujarati film at the 64th Filmfare Awards.
Wrong Side Raju is a 2016 thriller with a runtime of 2 hours and 10 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.7.