Sanju

Sanju, directed by Rajkumar Hirani and written by Hirani and Abhijit Joshi, is a biographical drama that chronicles the life of Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt, played by Ranbir Kapoor. The film is a fascinating account of Dutt's highs and lows, as he navigated through a tumultuous journey marked by controversy, addiction, and a series of trials. The film begins with Dutt's (Ranbir Kapoor) early days as an aspiring model, where he struggles to make a name for himself in the cutthroat world of Bollywood. However, his break comes when he lands a role in the iconic film Rocky Handsome (inspired by his real-life role in the film), which catapults him to stardom. His meteoric rise is marked by his charm, good looks, and talent, but behind the glitz and glamour, Dutt is battling a demons of his own - an addiction to narcotics. Dutt's descent into darkness is expertly woven into the narrative, showcasing his struggles with cocaine and other substances. His obsession with these substances leads to a series of tragic events, including a car accident that leaves him in a coma. His girlfriend, Nargis (Manisha Koirala), who eventually becomes his wife, tries to stage an intervention, but Dutt's addiction proves too powerful to overcome. As his addiction spirals out of control, Dutt's marriage crumbles, and he is forced to seek help in the form of a rehabilitation center in the United States. However, the film takes a darker turn when Dutt lands in the midst of a terrorist conspiracy. As investigations into the 1993 Mumbai blasts unfold, Dutt finds himself caught in the crossfire. He becomes embroiled with the underworld figures, including Chota Shakeel (Sohaib Sheikh), Karim Lala (Amitabh Bachchan), and Abu Salem (Sachin Khedekar), who use him as a pawn in their illicit dealings. Dutt's association with these individuals leads to a series of unfortunate events, including his involvement in the infamous Arms Act case. As the stakes rise, Dutt's life becomes increasingly complicated. His father, Sunil Dutt (Paresh Rawal), a respected politician and a stalwart, is torn between his duty as a law-abiding citizen and his son's struggles. His mother, Nargis's sister, Kiran Dutt (Anushka Sharma), becomes a source of emotional support for Dutt, who is grappling with his own personal demons. One of the most compelling aspects of the film is its portrayal of the relationship between Dutt and his family. Despite the ups and downs in his life, Dutt's bond with his loved ones remains strong. His wife, Nargis, stands by him through thick and thin, even when others give up on him. His father's unconditional love and support help him navigate the darkest moments of his life. Sanju is not just a biographical drama; it's also a nuanced exploration of the complexities of addiction. The film doesn't shy away from depicting the horrors of Dutt's substance abuse, but it also offers a message of hope. Dutt's journey towards rehabilitation is a testament to the power of human resilience and the importance of seeking help when needed. Throughout the film, Ranbir Kapoor delivers a masterful performance, bringing to life the complexities of Dutt's personality. His commitment to the role is evident in every frame, as he embodies the actor's mannerisms, voice, and expressions. The supporting cast, including Manisha Koirala, Paresh Rawal, and Anushka Sharma, add depth and nuance to the film, making the narrative feel authentic and engaging. In the end, Sanju is a powerful tribute to the human spirit's capacity for redemption and forgiveness. The film shows that even in the face of adversity, one can choose to rise above and begin anew. As Dutt's journey unfolds, the audience is left with a sense of awe and admiration for his unyielding spirit and his commitment to overcoming the challenges that life throws at him.