Satya
Magnum Opus of RGV that delivers on so many levels. A milestone for gangster movies in India and writing that became a blueprint for future gangster movies. When you have talent that are working behind the camera like Anurag Kashyap and Vishal Bhardwaj, you can't miss.
The story I feel like takes a bow to Godfather with MC going through same downward spiral Michael finds himself in. But, RGV makes the world the story revolves around with realism and depth, that it still feels fresh and doesn't make you think too hard about it. I did see an interview regarding the movie, where they did mention how they took reference from both The Godfather and The Goodfellas. It took factors that made both of the movies great on thier respective ways and added it to the movie, but it just worked for the best at the end as it brought an end for the caricature nature of portrayal for gangster characers in Indian cinema.
Performance wise, I think everyone does a very splendid job and most of the cast are those faces you see on the sidelines but are never given their dues, I was thoroughly surprised by the cast and am glad not having searched about it.
I did think J.D Chakravarthy's acting did falter at moments where shit hit the fan, but most of the time it did work for his character as someone who wasn't big with his words but his actions and decisions shook the underworld around him.
Manoj Bajpayee as Bhiku Mhatre absolutely steals the movie. His manic energy brings magic to every scene he is in. A gangster that has a heart of gold in a world full of deceit and backstabbing. His friendship with Satya stays with you where you can tell despite knowing the situation they are in, he still wants best for his friend. Plus, you can't deny a young and game Manoj Bajpayee and his acting chops, ever. Definitely, my favorite performance of his aside Sardaar Khan.
Also Saurabh Shukla as Kallu Mama was just legendary. Nothing more and nothing less. Just pure cinema at its best.
I loved this movie and was hooked till the end and I can clearly see why it has reached its "cult" status. Movie becomes goated when everything fits perfectly and it just becomes a gem of a movie.