Lucknow Central (2017) [บรรยายไทย]

Lucknow Central Story: Kishan Girhotra’s (Farhan) dreams of becoming a singer are shattered when he is falsely accused of murdering an IAS officer in Muradabad. Pronounced guilty, he is jailed for the crime he never committed. Deprived of the freedom he rightfully deserves, the sun shines on him once again even in captivity, as a bunch of prisoners and an NGO worker (Diana Penty) become his voice and the wind beneath his wings. Can he accomplish his dream of forming a band in the prison or does he manage to escape the dungeon?

Lucknow Central Review: Based on true life events, Lucknow Central is a feel-good, human, prison-break drama that succeeds in manipulating you emotionally, despite being predictable and filmy in portions. While the peg is somewhat similar (barring the undertrial element) to the recent Qaidi Band, Lucknow Central has a distinct execution and is way more evolved.

What essentially works for LC is its classic ‘winning against all odds’ theme. The inmates finding a reason to live and a sense of belonging within the four walls of the Lucknow Central jail instead of their homes is what tugs at your heartstrings. Shunned as misfits and outcasts by the society including their families, the prisoners find solace in each other’s company. Ranjit Tiwari handles this aspect of human alienation and friendship, beautifully. His understated sensibility resonates with his talented star cast, starting with the very impressive Ronit Roy. The actor stands out as the curt, conniving and clever jailer. Sadly, his character is reduced to being a toothless tiger eventually.

Farhan ably carries the film on his shoulders but his efforts to nail his desi character are partially visible. For instance, his flawed English pronunciation seems a tad artificial and inconsistent. (Read Corut for court, rohk for Rock and naan existent for non-existent). Nevertheless, he gets the mannerisms and innate innocence of a small town guy right and makes you weep for his misfortune. Deepak Dobriyal is excellent as always and so are Rajesh Sharma, Inaamulhaq and Ravi Kishan. Diana Penty and Gippy Grewal play their parts well.

Considering the film revolves around music, Rangdaari is a beautiful composition that sums up this fascinating tale of dreamers and fighters, who refuse to give up on life or faith.