Vikram Vedha

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*Vikram Vedha* (2022) is a Hindi remake of the critically acclaimed Tamil film of the same name, which itself was inspired by the ancient Indian folktale *Betal Pachisi*. The movie is set in modern-day Lucknow and follows a cat-and-mouse game between Vikram (Saif Ali Khan), a tough and morally rigid police officer, and Vedha (Hrithik Roshan), a gangster whose rise to power is marked by a series of brutal murders. The core of the story revolves around Vedha's storytelling – every time he is captured, he tells Vikram a story filled with riddles that force the cop to question his perceptions of right and wrong.

As the film progresses, Vikram, who once saw the world in simple black-and-white terms, begins to understand the complexities of morality, as he learns that good and evil are not always clearly defined. The storytelling becomes a key device, reflecting the nuanced backstories of both Vikram and Vedha, revealing how circumstances shaped their actions and choices. The film essentially explores themes of justice, morality, and the "lesser evil" concept, with the two characters caught in a web of their own making.

Directed by Pushkar-Gayatri, who also helmed the original Tamil version, the film succeeds in adapting the story to the Hindi heartland. The gritty setting of Lucknow is well-captured, with cinematographer PS Vinod providing a raw and authentic portrayal of the city. The dialogue ranges from philosophical musings to gritty, conversational exchanges, fitting the neo-noir genre while maintaining the film's moral dilemmas.

While the essence of the original film is preserved, *Vikram Vedha* doesn’t quite carry the same visceral punch as its Tamil counterpart. The performances by Hrithik Roshan and Saif Ali Khan, while strong, differ from the original actors – Hrithik, with his Greek-god looks, brings tenderness and vulnerability to his character, but he doesn't fit the lower-middle-class gangster persona as naturally as Vijay Sethupathi did. Similarly, Saif, although excellent, is too polished to fully convince as a hardened cop. That said, both actors give their best, with Hrithik’s emotional depth and Saif’s intensity creating a compelling dynamic.

The film also features stylish action sequences, including a thrilling Parkour scene with Hrithik, which stands out as a highlight of the film’s choreography. The action is imaginative, adding to the film’s larger-than-life appeal.

In addition to the lead performances, Radhika Apte’s role as Saif’s wife is a pleasant surprise, providing a much-needed emotional counterpoint to the film’s darker tones with her verbal sparring with Saif.

Overall, *Vikram Vedha* is a solid thriller, elevated by its engaging performances and philosophical undertones. While it may not have the raw energy of the original, it still offers a compelling watch for fans of action and moral quandaries.