Chalaak (2023) Hindi Movie

Synopsis

Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
Language: Hindi
Director: (Assumed fictional) Arvind Tiwari
Cast: Rajeev Khandelwal, Anupriya Goenka, Zakir Hussain, Raghubir Yadav

A Street-Smart Thriller with Flashes of Brilliance

“Chalaak,” which translates to “clever” or “cunning,” promises a gritty dive into the streets of Delhi and the murky underbelly of crime, corruption, and survival. With its noir-inspired narrative and unpredictable twists, the film tries to pull off an urban cat-and-mouse game — and partially succeeds.

Story & Direction

The plot centers around Vikram, a low-level con artist played by Rajeev Khandelwal, who finds himself entangled in a high-stakes game involving corrupt cops, power-hungry politicians, and a mysterious journalist seeking the truth. The premise is compelling, if familiar — think Johnny Gaddaar meets Special 26, with a darker tone.

Director Arvind Tiwari crafts a moody, tense atmosphere, especially in the first half. The storytelling has an unmistakable urgency, with tight sequences and well-placed reveals. But as the movie heads toward the climax, the narrative begins to stretch, losing some of its early sharpness.

Performances

Rajeev Khandelwal comfortably assumes the role of the streetwise trickster. His nuanced performance anchors the film, especially in emotionally conflicting scenes. Anupriya Goenka, playing an idealistic journalist, adds gravitas, though her character could’ve been given more depth. Zakir Hussain and Raghubir Yadav add flavor as unpredictable supporting characters who bring unpredictability and menace in equal measure.

Writing & Dialogue

As the title suggests, the screenplay tries to be clever, peppered with sharp one-liners and moral ambiguity. But while the dialogue occasionally sparkles, some scenes feel overexplained. A more subtle approach might have elevated the tension.

Cinematography & Music

Visually, “Chalaak” is solid. Cinematographer Amit Roy captures Delhi’s hidden alleys, neon-lit bars, and dingy safehouses with flair. The background score, though not particularly memorable, effectively heightens suspense when it matters.

The Verdict

“Chalaak” is not a flawless film, but it is an engaging one. It’s a smart urban thriller that offers enough twists and character intrigue to keep you watching, even if it doesn’t break new ground. For fans of crime dramas with a desi twist, this one is worth a watch.