100 Days (1991)
10/10
One of the best during its time ... or any time!
6 December 2012
Warning: Spoilers
I am going to rate this movie very high mainly because it delivered what it promised. It was one of the best thrillers/murder mysteries that released in the 1990s (probably even till date, though now it may appear dated in terms of costumes and gadgets etc). Partho Ghosh hasn't always made good films, but this one is easily his best. The film is inspired (just like his other hit, coming a close second to this one, Agnisaakshi) but let's give him credit for making a really good, strong thriller.

I remember how I had shut my eyes, at the age of 10, while watching some of the scenes in this film. It was truly fascinating. One of the key strengths of the film was its background music that added to the mystery.

Madhuri Dixit was another highpoint of this film. She was brilliantly cast as Devi and did complete justice to her role. That's why she is what she is today. I'm a huge Dixit fan, so won't go on about her, lest i sound prejudiced. Moon Moon sen in a small role was alright. Neelam Mehera did a decent job and so did Sabeeha.

Of the men, Jackie Shroff had to settle for a less meaty role when compared to his lead heroine, but he was good. Jay Kalghuta, who was introduced in this film as Jagmohan, not only looked menacing and terrifying but enacted his role convincingly as well. A good debut that sadly did not get too many roles post this film. Laxmikant Berde as Baalam provided the laughs (may seem over the top when viewed today, but did tickle back then). And lastly Javed Jaffery was well cast as Sunil. It was a pleasure to see Madhuri and Javed shake a leg in the popular song De De Dil.

Although Dixit and Shroff had appeared in films like Parinda, Raam Lakhan, Tridev, Uttar Dakshin and Vardi before this one(not sure if I missed any), this is probably the only film, where they romanced one another, that emerged successful.

Raam Laxman's music was not chart busting, which was required for a suspense film. But the songs are melodious especially Sun Beliya, which stood out.

Partho Ghosh managed to maintain the suspense till the end. No cheap thrills, just good old suspense and drama. Brilliant stuff.It wasn't like those films that had a new twist in the plot after every 15 minutes, thus introducing a new dimension to the story. It had a concrete plot to follow, with layers unfolding.

Overall, 100 days is one of the best thrillers I have seen in Indian cinema or any cinema. Copied or not, this film is a great watch even today.
2 out of 4 found this helpful. Was this review helpful? Sign in to vote.
Permalink

Recently Viewed