Ever since the poster of Akshay Kumar‘s Bell Bottom was released, I was looking forward to watching this film. Later on, the trailer and songs from the film only raised the anticipation for me. Another thing that impressed me about the film was the way Lara Dutta Bhupathi got into the character of Late Smt. Indira Gandhi. I must say the makers have lived up to the promising glimpses of the film.
For those who don’t know Bell Bottom is an action thriller based on the real-life hijackings in India by the Khalistan separatists. Other than Akshay Kumar, the film also stars Vaani Kapoor, Lara Dutta Bhupathi, Huma Qureshi, and Adil Hussain in prominent roles. The film is directed by Ranjit Tiwari and produced by Vashu Bhagnani, Jackky Bhagnani, and Deepshikha Deshmukh of Pooja Entertainment along with Nikkhil Advani of Emmay Entertainment.
Bell Bottom is slated to release on the 19th of August. Check out the film’s trailer here:
Here’s what I liked about Bell Bottom:
1. Lara Dutta Bhupathi’s portrayal as Indira Gandhi
Lara left everyone amazed when her look from the film was revealed for the very first time. And while a character like this usually comes with a lot of baggage, it seems like Lara has lived up to the expectations. She is simply fabulous at essaying the late Prime Minister’s role. Her body language, nuances, and demeanor are on point. Not once will you feel that you are watching Lara on screen, she will make you feel like you’re watching the OG Indira Gandhi throughout. This role is surely another feather in Lara’s hat.
2. Huma Qureshi and Adil Hussain are the other gems in the film
Even though Huma has a brief role of a secret agent in the film, she totally does justice to it. Her role adds weightage to the storyline. Adil on the other hand is quite impressive as an officer of the RAW and Akshay Kumar’s boss. Like always, Adil is pushing the envelope with this one too. Well, let me not forget, Adil delivers some amazing ‘seeti-maar‘ dialogues in the film.
3. Akshay Kumar shines once again as Bell Bottom
Bell Bottom is Akshay’s code word in the film where he is seen playing a RAW agent and let me tell you that the actor will leave you impressed with his heroic performance. While this is Akshay’s forte, to watch him enact the part is a delight in itself. Together with Adil, Akshay also delivers some witty lines which you surely take note of.
Things that could have been better in the film:
1. The pace and back-forth sequence of the storyline
In the first half of the film, there is a lot of back and forth in the storyline which makes it a little difficult to keep a track of what is happening. Also, the pace of the film is a little slow in the first half, however, it picks up soon.
2. The Climax of the film could have been better
While the second half of the film is gripping, the build-up to the climax is just brilliant. However, just when you are at the edge of your seat waiting for something big to happen, it’s already over. Yes, the film’s climax is short-lived, a little more confrontation could have added to the thrill.
3. Vaani Kapoor’s character is underplayed
Even though Vaani Kapoor adds the final twist to the story (which you will find out when you watch the film), I wanted to see more of her. Considering the amazing performances the actress has given in her previous films, in this one, her role surely needed a little more gravitas. Despite lesser screen time, Vaani’s performance cannot go unnoticed.
On the whole, I am quite impressed with Bell Bottom and I would like to give it 3.5 stars. You need to watch this film at least once.
Co-written by: Nawaz Kochra