Review of D-Day

D-Day (I) (2013)
6/10
Exceeds good spy thriller
26 September 2013
Warning: Spoilers
Movies on the Government intelligence and covert operations have been very rare in India. In fact it has been very hard to find an thought provoking movie to see. This was a trend that was ultimately left forgotten in the 90s. Previous films on this theme have not proved a success. Movies such as 'Drohkaal' were impressive for their time but never managed to get a bigger audience. The genre itself has rarely been depicted in a genuine manner. A majority of films present this in a very amateurishly way. 'D Day' is is a honest effort that realistically has revived an old theme.

The film portrays characters in desperate situation and believe in doing the righteous duty in-spite of putting their lives on the line. The covert operation itself is shown in greater detail as it progresses from stage by stage to the actual event. The film presents the story of 3 R.A.W agents (Research analysis wing) agents. Irfan Khan and Arjun Rampal are living normal lives being in a relationship with their wife's as well as keeping their real identity a secret. Huma Quereshi joins them later posing as a student. After a failed attempt to apprehend Iqbal Seth at his daughters wedding in a high rise hotel, they decide to their attempts to bring back to India a terrorist. Initially their abduction plan does not succeed and are forced to shift gears to stay alive and fight for survival as the Indian Government is intent on killing them. Meanwhile the gangster Iqbal has his political associates turning sides against him as they are afraid that links with him will be exposed to the Indian government.

As well as a being a thriller the film does succeed in conveying a message and tries to paint a grim picture of high authority and intelligent authorities in today's times. Working for the military is not only a high risk profession, but also a duty that does not guarantee survival. And when circumstances on duty in change there can be can be no assurance of loyalty. The unique element of the film besides the story is Irfan Khan's sub plot involving his family. How he sacrifices their trust, love and safety is heart wrenching. He is truly the highlight of the film. Arjun Rampal impresses as the tactical officer. His expressions are on the mark and suit his character. Plays the role with conviction. Huma Qureshi gives good support to a male cast as the explosives expert. She suited the character and got under the skin very well.

This was a pleasant surprise coming from a director whose previous venture was a box office flop. He has ingeniously directed the film in tone with it's theme. Nikhil Advani co written the script with three writers. He has beautifully balanced elements of a spy thriller with a true life character. All roles of the actors were well developed and were integral to the story. The pacing is perfect and the story progresses without flaws smoothly. The film is set in Pakistan but shot entirely in Gujarat, India. Overall a recommended film if one is searching for a redeeming entertainment.
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