BOTTOM LINE
Unexciting Gang
OUR RATING
2.25/5
CENSOR
‘U/A’ Certified, 2 hrs 18 mins.
What is the film Gang about?
A youngster fed up by the corrupt system, and rejected to become a CBI officer forms his team. He starts raiding the corrupt. What happens when the real CBI try to catch them is what the film is all about?
How is Suriya’s performance?
Suriya is terrific in a role that is tailor-made for him. He has many scenes to showcase his multiple variations effectively. It looked odd in the trailer, but the star has done a commendable job as far as dubbing in Telugu is considered. Still, all said and done, Gang is a fun outing for the actor rather than something unique or memorable regarding acting.
Direction By Vignesh Shivan?
Vignesh Shivan has a flair for visuals right from his first film, and that can be seen here as well. It is a remarkable consistency that he has maintained along with music choice. However, he also has another significant problem which also is carried forward in Gang.
There is always an issue with pacing and tone in the movies of director Vignesh Shivan. The editing feels off, and the emotional graph is inconsistent. The same problems are present in Gang as well despite it being a remake. The seamless transition from scene to scene is missing most of the time.
In Gang, specific changes are made to make it more commercial compared to the Hindi version. These changes are partially alright, but in an overall sense, fail the movie. The energy and suspense are missing, and the vigilante angle takes it in a new direction entirely. The free flow of the original version is missing, even though the original had its issues. On the whole, Gang is a difficult one time watch at best thanks to Suriya.
Keerthy Suresh and others?
Keerthy Suresh has a limited role. Her character is changed and improved from the original which is one of the better changes, but it lasts only for a small duration. The ending of the love angle drags the narrative. Ramya Krishna has tried her best, but she comes across as a misfit. Suresh Chandra Menon is apt in his role. Karthik overacts whereas Thambi Ramaiah is superb. The rest of the Gang members despite the presence of well-known faces have nothing much to do.
Music and other departments?
Anirudh delivers a mixed bag. Only one song shines while others are good in parts. It is the same with the background score as well which has its moments but is mostly uninspiring. The cinematography is excellent. Editing should have been better.
Highlights?
Suriya
Story
Few Twists
Drawbacks?
Clumsy Narration
Changes to Original
Lengthy Climax
Alternative Take
If you haven’t seen the original maybe it is time to have a look.
Did I enjoy it?
In parts
Will you recommend it?
With huge reservations
Gang Review by Siddartha Toleti
