The Dual Nature of Inspirational Cinema: A Review of Raees

In the world of Bollywood, films often encapsulate a mix of entertainment, drama, and deep socio-political themes. Raees, starring Shah Rukh Khan (SRK), is no exception. This intriguing cinematic journey delves into the complex motivations and consequences of its protagonist, Raees Alam. The movie, while not traditionally inspirational, offers profound insights into moral and social issues, making it a layered and reflective film for viewers.

Multi-Faceted Characters and Themes

The character of Raees Alam, played by SRK, is a captivating blend of resilience, intelligence, and determination. His journey, from a struggling individual to a successful businessman, mirrors many real-life stories of success and perseverance. Raees faces numerous challenges, including systemic oppression, which he navigates with courage and cunning. However, the film also presents a nuanced perspective by highlighting the darker aspects of his choices and their consequences on his life and the lives around him. This dual nature makes the character more relatable and the story more impactful.

Subtle Messages and Impact

Despite being marketed as a typical action-comedy, Raees carries a meaningful message that reaches its climax with profound societal commentary. The film teaches us that humanity is above all religions, a message that resonates strongly with a global audience. SRK’s character, Raees, is a Muslim who shows respect and understanding towards all religions. This is evident in his dialogue, “Main dhanda karta hoon, main dharam ka dhanda nahi karta,” which translates to “I am in business, not in religious business.” Another impactful line, “Begunaahon ko maarke kabhi jannat naseeb nahi hoti,” further emphasizes the importance of not resorting to criminal means to achieve success.

The film also encourages viewers to take their businesses one level up and to have confidence in their ventures. It promotes the idea of brotherhood and hard work, teaching individuals to build their own businesses with dedication and focus. These messages make Raees a film that goes beyond mere entertainment, offering valuable life lessons.

Artistic Discontent and Objectivity

Not all viewers or critics find the film inspiring. Mohit’s review suggests that while many find Raees engaging and impactful, others view it with a more critical eye. According to Mohit, the movie serves as a “larger than life” character with old recipes and new spices, which might not appeal to everyone. However, he acknowledges the strength of SRK’s performance and the emotional depth of Mahira Khan’s character. The film’s biggest plus point, according to Mohit, is Nawaz Bhai, whose short appearance is notably impactful.

Mohit also critiques Shah Rukh Khan’s career trajectory, suggesting that Raees is part of a declining trend in the quality of his films. While Chak De! India was mentioned as one of the last sensible movies he did, Mohit’s overall assessment of Raees is somewhat mixed. This diversity of opinions reflects the varied nature of the audience and their interpretations of such films.

Concluding Thoughts

Ultimately, Raees stands as a film that challenges viewers to think deeply about their actions and the impacts they have. While it may not be a traditional inspirational film, its nuanced portrayal of its protagonist and the enduring messages of humanity and hard work make it a thought-provoking cinematic experience. Despite the mixed reviews, Raees remains a significant film in the context of modern Bollywood, offering more than just a superficial story of success.