No way is it near the levels of the Indiana Jones trilogy. 'Naksha' does take its source from numerous Hollywood films, including 'Indiana Jones'. That doesn't really work in favour of the film. Yes, there are a few good moments (stress on the word few). I think this movie had potential to be great (given the concept) and since adventurous films are scarce in Bollywood, 'Naksha' is sort of fresh. Now if only, the director had actually done a better job. The film moves at an uneven pace Technically the film is quite poor. Since it takes place in the jungle, a lot could have been done with the forest atmosphere and mystery to make the jungle more involved but its hardly put to use at all. The cinematography could have been a lot better. The split-screen was annoying and irrelevant and don't even get me started on the slow motion especially in the action scenes (which I fast forwarded). The action scenes were over the top and too long (which is expected in a film starring Sunny Deol). The special effects are of poor quality. Some of the songs are likable and of foot-tapping quality. I liked the chemistry between Deol and Oberoi. Vivek Oberoi does well for the most parts. However, in his introductory scene, Vivek comes across as whiny and Sunny is over the top in most scenes (as usual). Sameera Reddy tries to pull off a Preity Zinta and adds some glamour. She doesn't have much to do but she does beat up an item girl. Jackie Shroff is irritating. 'Naksha' is a wasted effort. It could have been great if the screenplay were tighter (and a whole lot modified). Editing would have helped. The writing could use a lot of improvement. For example, either leave out Sameera Reddy's character or develop the character and make her somewhat relevant. Involve the jungle. Tone down the fight sequences. Come up with something original.
Review of Naksha
