Insights and Impressions from the Masterpiece 'War'
War is a Best Bollywood movie ever that I have watched an impressive 50 times and still find it captivating, despite its age.
Impressive Elements of 'War'
Let's dive into the elements that have left such a profound impact on me and others who have watched this film:
SPOILERS AHEAD!
The Neon Sign Revelation
After Hrithik Roshan kills the senior analyst V.K. Naidu and leaves the area, the sign above his head reads 'Hotel Lotus'. However, the neon lights in the letters keep flickering except for H, E, and the two Ls. This cleverly reads as 'HELL!', setting the stage for the film in a sinister way.
Opening Credits Plot Twist
If you closely observe the opening credits, there is a blink-and-miss portion that actually hints at the plot twist! A face resembling Khalid's appears and seems to be undergoing surgery. This detail was only noticed during a rewatch on Amazon Prime.
Tiger Shroff's Memorable Entry Scene
Tiger Shroff's entry scene is a 2-minute one-shot-take of frenetic punching, kicking, and leaping. At the end of this scene, Khalid's theme plays as he walks out in slow motion. However, the plot twist reveals that it was Saurabh impersonating Khalid who fought in this scene. This explains why the opening of the theme sounds ominous!
Hrithik’s Legendary Entry Scene
Hrithik's entry scene is possibly the best ever in any Bollywood film. No further elaboration is needed, as it speaks for itself.
Electro-Pop Dance Off
Despite the two best dancers in the industry, the scene featuring the song 'Jai Jai Shivshankar' is a bit underwhelming. Both dancers have performed more impressive moves in other dance routines. Personally, I would have preferred a electro-pop/hip-hop dance face-off between the two, but that's just me.
Confrontation in the Metro
The scene in the metro just before the interval when Tiger and Hrithik confront each other. Hrithik's vanishing act and the revelation of the next target bring a fitting end to an entertaining first half.
Plot Twist and Double Agent Ending
The plot twist reveals that Saurabh had been impersonating Khalid for the last two years. Although this segment raises some questions and inconsistencies in the script, it is executed in a way that makes it quite impactful, bolstered by the background music.
Ultimate Showdown
The final showdown between Tiger and Hrithik, set in an abandoned church, is a breathtaking spectacle. Both these 'Greek Gods' engage in a figurative and literal battle, resulting in a bloody but not overly brutal encounter.
The Final Scene
The final scene sees Kabir deciding to remain a 'traitor' and serve the country as a double-agent. He declares to Colonel Luthra that the 'war is still on', leaving open the possibility of a sequel. However, it appears unlikely that Tiger Shroff will be involved unless they resurrect him as a villain.
Despite the many plot holes and unanswered questions, 'War' remains a masterpiece of Bollywood cinema. I am hopeful for a War 2, with much bigger action and possibly fewer plot holes.