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EDITOR'S PICK
Rating: ***
The industry is witnessing a new trend -- young directors are now remaking
Hollywood films in an attempt to attract less criticism, which they face when
they remake films made in other Indian languages.
"Chingari", directed by choreographer-turned-director Harsha with
Darshan in the lead role, is a remake of Hollywood venture "Taken"
that had Liam Neeson, Maggie Grace and Famke Janssen in the cast.
The director has, of course, Indianised the film, but the imprints of the
original are visible throughout the film. Though his first two directorial
ventures were not commercial successes, Harsha seems to have struck the right
chord with "Chingari".
The director and his team of technicians have done a commendable job in giving a
stylish touch to the narrative and Venu`s awesome cinematography has taken the
film to a next level.
The major attraction of "Chingari" is certainly Darshan, thanks to his
looks, charisma and talent to carry the role of an investigator. He looks
absolutely stunning in many sequences and his trademark style in action
sequences is a treat for his fans.
Having said that, "Chingari" suffers from some flaws too. The first
half is well presented, but too many loopholes later pat disappoints viewer. But
the last 20 minutes puts the film on track again and sustain the interest of the
audiences.
Comedy sequences featuring Darshan are executed well, but some of the sequences
look too lengthy and illogical. Harsha has also erred in including too many
commercial elements in the script.
Music is quite ordinary compared to the standards set by Hari Krishna himself in
many recent films.
In the film, Raja is a police investigator who saves an international celebrity
from the jaws of death and the guy is so grateful that he tells Raja that he can
call him in time of need.
Raja is attracted towards guitarist Geeta, but they part ways because of some
misunderstanding.
Geeta flies to Switzerland for a music audition along with her friend. Meanwhile
Raja, who keeps a track on her movements in the foreign country, comes to know
that a gang involved in human trafficking has kidnapped Geeta.
Raja wants to save his sweetheart and wants to fly to Switzerland and the
celebrity comes to his rescue - he arranges a chartered flight for him. Raja
rescues Geetha who has already been sold to a gang involved in prostitution.
Darshan impresses with his stylish looks, comical acts and breathtaking action
sequences. He dominates the entire film with his superb screen presence. Harsha
has ensured that. Darshan fans will enjoy the film as it has some punchy
dialogues.
Bhavana impresses too, especially in her dance number.
Deepika Kamaiah has worked hard to make her presence felt in the film. She has
done her best in the first half where she has some good scenes with Darshan.
Srujan Lokesh, Sumitra, Ramesh Bhat, Praveen and Yashas Surya have performed
well in their respective roles.
Hari`s scored in background music.
"Chingari" is a well-made film with rich production values and top
rated technical work.