Panjaa (2011)
10/10
One of the most stylish action movies ever made!
15 February 2019
This is one of the best action movies ever made.

Panjaa is a classy action thriller that stands out due to its stylish action sequences, excellent screenplay, catchy music, strong performances and character-driven plot.

Director Vishnuvardhan has kept the film grounded throughout the duration. If you like realistic action involving mostly guns and explosions, this film is an absolute treat. Lots of bullets, knives, crunchy blows, bright explosions dominate the film while also letting other aspects breathe. The CGI is quite commendable even though it's a little weak in a few shots, given that Indian movies had started to get advanced around that time.

Pawan Kalyan is the heart and soul of the film. He looks dapper as a hitman and delivers a terrific performance, be it the action scenes or the dramatic parts. His character is at par with similar action heroes like John Wick and Robert McCall (who came after him!) and has got a unique fighting style which I've become a huge fan of. Sarah Jane-Dias and Anjali Lavania are effective in their parts. Atul Kulkarni and Jackie Shroff have delivered similarly terrific performances, while it's Adivi Sesh who turns out to be the scene stealer. One of the best things the director has done is that he has not kept Ali just for comedy. His performance in some sequences will move you. Brahmanandam is hilarious as always.

One more thing that definitely needs appreciation is the camerawork in several action scenes. It gives the film an unprecedented feel and works big time. Music by Yuvan is very good, especially the title track, Ela Ela and Kshanam Kshanam. Paparayudu track is quite funny and PK's steps are a treat to watch. Again, the director has made sure the songs are there but in a limited duration. Great!

Panjaa is emotionally resonant and the story has got to do a lot with that. The first half slowly sets up the conflict and thus while it's not fast paced, it will keep you glued. In the second half, the story gets a more desi feel. The director has given the film an international feel, but kept it Indian at heart.

By the time the climax nears, the tension gets higher. I personally felt moved by the film and by the time it ended, I was left speechless. I wanted to discuss with others how great this movie was. I don't understand how come it flopped at the box office. I definitely want it in my collection.

That being said, Panjaa is a must watch action entertainer.
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