Toofaan
2021 · Directed by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra
Original language: Hindi
- drama
The story
An inspiring story about an orphan boy from the streets of Dongri, who grows up to become a local goon of his area and how his life changes after he meets the young and compassionate Ananya, who guides him towards the right path and makes him realize his true calling i.e boxing.
What it’s like
Warm, sweat-slick realism with a crowd-pleaser's energy: Mumbai's Dongri rendered in dense, sun-baked streets, crowded chawls, and monsoon-grey skies, with the camera close and restless during the gym and ring scenes. Boxing bouts are shot with punchy, handheld momentum, and the score, scored by A.R. Rahman, swells between hard-hitting rap-style street tracks and earnest, uplifting strings. The mood is hopeful and earnest, a rousing underdog rhythm that builds slowly through a rough, gangland beginning and into a long training stretch, then a big emotional finish. The protagonist's arc is a hard-edged man learning patience and discipline, and the warmth between him and a compassionate young woman gives the story its heart. Intensity is moderate: frequent fist fights and bloodied faces in the ring, some street brawls and gang menace, and a few tense confrontations, but no gore and nothing graphic. It suits a Friday night with friends, a feel-good weekend watch, or anyone wanting a sincere, sweaty, crowd-rousing sports drama with a strong sense of place.
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