The biggest human heist|Sep. 16, 2022|India|116 Min.|R
Genre: Bollywood;Crime;Drama;Mystery
Description: Ali Abbas Zafar, known for blockbusters like “Mere Brother Ki Dulhan,” “Gunday,” “Sultan,” “Tiger Zinda Hai,” and “Bharat,” ventures into the digital space with “Jogi,” starring Diljit Dosanjh. The film maintains his signature style, bringing cinematic flair to the digital platform. Set against the backdrop of the 1984 Anti-Sikh Riots, Ali handles the sensitive subject with care while keeping the narrative engaging and cinematic, avoiding a documentary-like approach.
The story begins with a stark portrayal of the 1984 Riots but transitions into a gripping thriller centered on the evacuation of the Sikh community from Delhi. The film’s strength lies in its ability to make the audience root for the characters. One standout moment is when the first truck successfully reaches Punjab despite numerous challenges, evoking applause. Another touching scene involves Jogi going out of his way to secure milk for a newborn baby in dire circumstances, symbolizing the triumph of humanity over hatred.
However, “Jogi” isn’t without flaws. The love story, while adding depth, feels out of place in the pre-climax. Additionally, the flashbacks could have been better integrated into the first half. The pace occasionally falters, but the well-crafted screenplay manages to refocus on the core conflict. Despite these issues, the film’s heartfelt intentions and emotional resonance shine through.
The production quality is exceptional, with Ali and his team meticulously recreating the era despite pandemic challenges. Marcin Laskawiec’s cinematography is commendable, and Julus Packiam’s background score enhances the impact of key scenes. The editing is sharp, though certain sequences do affect the overall pacing. Overall, “Jogi” is a thoughtfully crafted film that strikes the right emotional chords.
Cast director: Ali Abbas Zafar
Cast actor: Diljit Dosanjh, Kumud Mishra, Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, Paresh Pahuja, Amyra Dastur, Hiten Tejwani, Neelu Kohli, Mikhail Yawalkar, Saurabh Chauhan, Sadanand Patil
Original name: जोगी