Hindi Movie Reviews

Movie: JANNAT

Director: Kunal Deshmukh

Music:   Pritam

Lyrics:   Sayeed Quadri

Starring:  Emraan Hashmi, Samir Kochhar, Sonal Chauhan

Genre:     drama

Yet another ambitious venture from the Bhatt Camp, this time it’s cricket. Jannat captures the much-hyped cricket scene of India through its explosive theme – Betting, Booking and Match-fixing in Indian cricket. The lead character is a hotshot bookie who has world famous cricketers dancing on his palm and is played refreshingly by Emraan Hashmi. Director Kunal Deshmukh however chose to highlight Imraan’s love-life which robs the film of its originality. Jannat could have been a fast action paced thriller show-casing the wicked side of cricket but with the same “laila-majnu” theme, it fails.

The story is clichéd – Emraan is a desperate character who wants to create his own Jannat by making quick money and so steps into the dangerous world of betting, making loads of cash and a reputation. The movie picks up action but suddenly the focus shifts on his girlfriend(Sonal) and one is left wondering- where’s cricket? Sonal is the conscience-stricken girl who hates Imraan’s gambling lifestyle and so sends him of to jail. She however falls flat as a debutante. Unfortunately, the second half of the film concentrates on the romance and betrayal, losing much of its sheen.

The music is the sole USP of the film which is superbly composed by Pritam. The catchy “Zara Sa…” and “Lambi Judai.” have become hot favorites. Otherwise, one can watch Jannat at least once for Imraan’s devilish act.