Guru- Some thoughts

I think this is a first in Bollywood, a hero who is an unapologetic, unabashed capitalist. Yes there were others before, Amitabh Bachan in Namak Haram, Sanjeev Kumar in Trishul and Prem chopra in Kalapathar come to mind. But those were the times of heady socialism and militant communism, where capitalists were unfairly branded as worst oppressors of society and it showed in the characterization in these movies. But Guru is not like that, he is unapologetic about making money and cares two hoots about ideology (Witness how he tells Mithun to write against the contractor who refuses to give him license, because he is rich and that’s what socialists do). It’s his business and its growth is all that matters to him and he will go any lengths to gain prosperity. It’s also a comment in a subtle way how the license Raj and croony socialism stifled the sprit of private enterprise and kept India in doldrums. It’s a wonderfully pointed message and was long overdue from our cinema.

Guru has all the hallmarks of a Mani ratnam movie. Great characters, even characters who are on the sidelines are neatly developed, excellent cinematography, terrific art direction (Attention to detail can be seen in every shot) & last but not the least great acting. But I was disappointed with the song placements and the ending. Mani Ratnam movies were anti Indian cinema in so many ways, especially his endings were as subtle and understated as it can get. But with Yuva and now Guru he has gone for technical showmanship and self indulgence in climax over beautifully understated melodrama. So he goes for fancy camera movements and background sound as Guru gives a rousing speech, which comes off as unrealistic and hard to digest. Also I wasn’t convinced why Guru should be apologetic and somehow excuse his corrupt ways as way to serve society.

But still watch Guru for its excellent three fourths and Abhishek.