This adaptation of the 2002 Denzel Washington starrer 'John Q' stands above the average fare doled out in 2006. Tackling the serious issue of health care red tape, this movie has its moments. Ravi Rajput(Dutt) is a doting middle-class father of a cute 7 year old(Master Pathak).When the son takes ill in a heart complication, Ravi has to raise 15 lac rupees for the heart transplant operation in order to save his son's life. But due to callous hospital administration who want the money upfront and an uncaring health insurance company, Ravi has reached his wit's end. Ia a fit of rage, he takes the hospital under siege adamant to save his son's life. Will he succeed? Or will the machinations of bureaucracy destroy an innocent child's life? Without giving anything away, I will say that this movie manages to move you. Sanjay Dutt delivers a knockout performance-- a gritty and realistic portrayal of a simple, blue collar worker who loves his son very much; and will do anything to keep him alive. The supporting cast barring a terrible Amisha Patel as Ravi's wife is competent. Jaya Pradha in a fine comeback shows that she's indeed a capable performer. Gulshan Grover also does a good job as the DCP who has to take Ravi down. The music of the film is simple but powerful; and conveys the mood of the film very well. Director Anubhav Sinha leaves out the flashy technique and does a fine job letting the film flow. I wouldn't be surprised if Dutt is in the reckoning for a Best Actor statuette this year. He is entirely believable as the hapless father who's trapped in a situation he doesn't want,but is left with no choice.He has you rooting for his Ravi Rajput,even though you know that he has taken the law into his own hands. If you are fed up of the trash that's coming out in the name of cinema these days, rent 'Tathastu'. At just under 2 hours, it is strong enough to hold your attention for the entire duration and will not leave you disappointed. Highly recommended. 9 on 10.
