Ghaath, yet another movie featuring the Manoj Bajpai-Tabu jodi, was released on December 08, 2000. It tells the tale of a police trainee, Krishna Patil (Bajpai), who is rejected by the force because he beats up a corrupt police inspector, Godbole (Mukesh Tiwari), who then uses his power to ruin the Krishna's future. Veteran actor Anupam Kher gives another stellar performance as Ramakant Patil, an idealist and ex-freedom fighter, who is Krishna's father.Krishna's unjustified removal from the police force, the untimely death of his sister Mansi (Sheeba) who was married to Divakar (Arshad Warsi), leads to frustration in Krishna's mind. He enters into an altercation with local goons and some cops, in order to eliminate the culprits who are not punished by the law and court. Kavita Choudhary (played by Tabu), an advocate, meets him during his training period and an attachment develops between them. Kavita and Ajay Pandey (Om Puri), helps Krishna through different stages of his struggle for truth.

Except for a couple of numbers like 'yeh humko kya hua hai..' and 'baba meri ye jawani ...' , Anu Malik's music is a let down. The technical aspects and the action sequences are up to the mark. Tabu, Arshad Warsi, Om Puri, Sheeba, all churn out noteworthy performances. Bajpai is more than competent in his role as Krishna.

Writer Neeraj Phathak adopts the easy way out to churn out an anti-system drama, adding nothing new to the script. The dialogues are good at places, but the story has no novelty value. The theme of the individual waging a lone battle against a corrupt system has been played out repeatedly. Ghaath is no exception.

Director, Akashdeep's treatment of the film is refreshing at times. Akashdeep's execution of the subject gets a boost largely due to Pathak's screenplay. But the screenplay also has several loose ends and uneven pace. Manoj Bajpai looks awkward in the romantic scenes.

Overall, Ghaath is a movie which can be avoided.
Director - Akashdeep

Cast - Manoj Bajpai, Tabu, Anupam Kher, Om Puri, Arshad Warsi.

By : Sharmistha Chakraborty

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