Hunterrr

Indians are wary about sex. And there's a great chance that some of you readers may have problems with me including the three letter word in the summary. Well, the film is basically a sex comedy which opens the topic and makes its audience dive into everything that comes with it (no pun intended).

It is the story of a man Mandar (Gulshan) seeking sexual liberation in a world (or country, shall I say?) where showing affection in public is forbidden. Since he reached puberty, Mandar has always been a curious lad who takes fancy in women and sex and masturbation. His flings switch ON and OFF as he seeks carnal knowledge every day like if it is a necessity like emptying one's bowels. He is just like an ordinary kid who wants to know things. But these escapades are not without its dangers as Mandar learns the hard way. The premise is brilliant and for Bollywood, a big step in the genre. It is in all ways superior to another film that comes to mind - Mastram (2014), a candid film about porn writing.

The non-linear screenplay is fun; chronicling the protagonist's life from his childhood days when a naughty Mandar starts responding to his "other basic needs" to the days when he visits the video parlor shops to the college days when flings and scoring are all the rage. These sequences are shot beautifully with montages that streamline the story marvelously. It throws light about the perils of two distinct features: one, the danger of indulging in an extra-marital affair, and two, the complexities of pre-matrimony when dealing with an eventful past becomes a problem amongst the to-be-bride-groom. It amazes one to learn that the writers have sampled original references in their fiction which makes it look like it is a real deal. One can easily relate to the character if he's being true to himself. Let me clarify, the film doesn't break the taboo; instead it tries to permit and attach it to a normal life. Of course, adults are not very present in this mission, otherwise the case would've been different. Sex will always be a taboo in India, but it is out of the scope of this review.

Although, there's a paradigm shift in the story when the joys of sex comedy turns into a drama about relationships. Maybe it was intended, but there is a chance that the audience, divided into two, may receive it rather critically. It will appeal the niche audience, the type that will be able to relate with the characters, but unfortunately even the drama may not entice the majority rest of the audience, for the screenplay doesn't offer what it may have promised. Nudity and actual sex are only suggestive and people expecting these may not be able to appreciate the psychology.

Retro music and songs, great camera work, and amazing dialogs are the highlights of this comic venture that is not as sleazy as it advocates to be. Gulshan Devaiah is excellent and totally into the character. I can hardly see anybody else portraying this role so purely as he does. Supporters Radhika Apte and Sai Tamhankar are very good. In fact, the whole cast do a very good job. Because they are directed well, the film will never bore you.

BOTTOM LINE: Hunterrr helps Bollywood transcend into a new level, and could even be called the pioneer of this genre which must be watched in order to be appreciated. 6/10 - Recommended!

Can be watched with a typical family? NO

Sex: Medium | Vulgarity/Profanity: Strong | Smoking/Alcohol: Very Low

OK so this movie doesn't deserve an 8. But i'm still gonna give it that for a few reasons. This movie clearly looks like it was written for stage plays and mainly enacted by stage actors. This movie starts off as a cheap sex comedy and then adds surprising amount of emotional depth. What i don't understand if this movie with its low budget and no big named stars with a crass topic can do that, then why do these big budget movies suffer from being totally nonsensical from beginning to the end. Why do their emotional scenes feel like pure melodrama. There is a lot of good talent here and i wish they can get this cast to do a good movie with a strong story.

This is my honest opinion, Bollywood is still isn't ready for such films. One of those films which are way ahead of their time. Storyline is perfect, a smooth ride which takes you from childhood memories to adulthood. It's a unique concept and writer/director has perfectly executed his job. Two things which blew my mind were casting and music direction. Gulshan has always been an underrated actor according to me and we all know Radhika's caliber. Special mention to actors who played Kshitij and Jyotsna, they totally did justice to their characters. Young Mandar, young Kshitij and young Dilip, loved to see you all, you all must have a great career ahead. Speaking of music, perfect time of every track in the movie. Amit Trivedi will make you emotional if you have lost a dear friend too. All in all, a must watch. I was shocked to see an IMDb rating of 7. This movie will definitely be a cult classic. Maybe in 2060, people will fall for it.

Hashvardhan Kulkarni's 'Hunterrr' is raunchy, dirty yet irresistible. This one's A Delicious Sex-Comedy, that offers laugh & also emotional depth. Its daringly different & Gulshan Devaiya is simply terrific in the central role.

'Hunterrr' Synopsis: A sex addict recalls his lustful past before he plans to marry a women, who offers him love, rather than lust.

'Hunterrr' works because the Writing is mostly strong. Kulkarni's Screenplay, which shifts back and forth, exploring the life of its extremely horny Protagonist, is enjoyable! The best bits come-up in the protagonist's past, be it his escapades with a feisty married women or with his college girlfriend. Yes, the romantic-track, which is the most prominent aspect of the story, also works, but at times, the humor falters. But overall, Kulkarni's Screenplay is unabashedly sleazy & some of the dialogue, are priceless!

Kulkarni's Direction is pretty good. Cinematography is picture-perfect. Editing is fine, although the film is a bit too lengthy (142-minutes). Some trimming was needed. Music by Khamosh Shah is in sync with the film's mood.

Performance-Wise: Gulshan Devaiya is the life of 'Hunterr'. The talented actor enacts the sex-addict with remarkable conviction. He makes a perverted character relatable rather than repulsive, all thanks to his superlative portrayal. This is a knock-out performance, in every level. Radhika Apte is wonderful, yet again! What a performer! Sai Tamhankar is extra-ordinary & despite limited screen-time, she brings a fabulous color to her character. Others lend excellent support.

On the whole, 'Hunterrr' is a joyride! Go, have fun!

Hunterrr : a refreshing change from other stereotype adult comedies. Direction was absolutely flawless with a non linear screenplay.The entire cast did a wonderful job with stunning performances from Gulshan Devaiah,Sai Tamhankar and Radhika Apte. A mind blowing and unconventional soundtrack with coming of age lyrics; and a very different and matured take on the subject of premarital sex and arranged marriages. One of the best comedies i've seen in recent times. In the end you will be left wanting for more though the runtime of the movie is a little more than expected. A perfect movie if you want to chill out and have a good time. 9/10 stars.