What makes a good film? Naturally Its arduous to put a finger to any one aspect. Film-making is complex, with so many variables which enjoy a rather symbiotic relationship.
Recently, I watched "Maqbool" , in those two hours I saw all these so called variables work seamlessly together to produce a magnificent piece of art.
Its adapted from the famous "Shakespeare" play "Macbeth". What I found really amusing is that the story has very little to do with the sheer beauty of the film.
The story is relatively simple, its how greed and lust overwhelms Maqbool ( Irfan khan ) to kill Abba-ji ( Pankaj Kapoor ) and take over the reins of his large criminal empire and his mistress Nimmi ( Tabu ).
The original plot gives the film its flow and direction, however the characters give the film its life. Every scene adds another layer to the already complex world of theirs and leads to the inevitable tragic ending. Needless to say Irfan Khan and Pankaj Kapoor are at their best and Tabu plays the role of the seductive mistress rather brilliantly.
For me my best charachters are these two mischievous corrupt police officials played by the sheer geniuses of Om Puri and Naseerudin Shah. They reprise the role of soothsayers and its simply a delight to watch them on screen together, not merely spectating as events unfold but enforcing them.
Its a film you shouldn't miss, with all the interesting charachters, powerful performances and a solid plotline, "Maqbool" is a fine adaptation of its original counterpart. It released around a decade back. Sometime in 2003, I'm surprised that I skipped it for so long. But as they say its never too late. .
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