Senhor 420

Based on some Internet research on the best of Bollywood, and on a lifelong crush on Raj Kapoor's brother Shashi, this was the first Bollywood movie I sought out at an Indian video store, and it completely blew me away. If you want to start to get to know the greatness of this cultural tradition, this is a good place to start, and I recommend watching it thirty times. It is still my favorite after some months of searching out Bollywood classics.

This movie provides a sublime pathway to love of Bollywood; for one thing the music is completely enchanting, beginning with the first song, sung by Raj Kapoor in his role as a university- educated ("B.A. passed") young country fellow garbed as a hobo on his way to Bombay--he sings his song of the road about "My shoes are Japanese, my trousers are British, my red hat is Russian, but my heart is Indian" --Mera juta hai Japani, etc. I do not speak Hindi and I have had to memorize it. I think some westerners may believe that the music of Bollywood movies will be a stumbling-block, but see if you still think that after you see this one. The songs are compelling and varied, the lyrics elaborate story elements, with the additional pleasure of being Indian or non-Western or whatever in their sentiments. Raj Kapoor's brilliant physicality and body language alone make the movie a joy.

It also provides the pleasures of screen romance with powerful chemistry (between Raj Kapoor and the great star Nargis, his real life inspiration and beloved), and of movement into the nightclub world of the rich and glamorous, and the opportunity to see the spectacularly handsome Raj change from a foolish-acting tramp/clown to a worldly charmer in a dinner jacket (even though this spells temporary trouble for the forgotten and virtuous Nargis).

~Virginia

Shree 420 is a classic Bollywood "social" of the 1950s. Its romanticized populism deserves comparison to Frank Capra's films. As in Kapoor's earlier Awara, the hero is a Chaplinesque tramp, another vagabond (as in Awara). Poor but honest (and happy), he falls in love with Vidya (Nargis), but is soon tempted to partner with a fat millionaire who makes money through fraud. Raj soon becomes rich but just as quickly regrets his choice, with Vidya serving throughout as the voice of his conscience. Songs in Kapoor's films are classics, but beyond their quality, the way Kapoor uses them is an important aspect of his directorial technique. In a pivotal scene, Raj (Kapoor's hero shares his first name) staggers drunk from a nightclub to encounter a stone-faced Vidya outside her poor home. The narrative problem here is that she – and the viewer – must condemn Raj but, at the same time, the movie has to communicate that she still loves him. Kapoor deftly solves this problem by showing Vidya staring coldly while a white-robed specter of Vidya sings a love song to the departing Raj: two Vidyas, one who censures him, another who reaffirms her love for him. And a good song. Imagine how a Hollywood film might resolve this. How many words would it take? How many tears? Kapor allows the stone-faced Vidya to image our disapproval while the spectral Vidya's song reveals what is going on in her mind.

They rarely make them like this anymore in Bollywood. Meaningful cinema with a message but presented in a highly entertaining and artistically solid way with great song numbers and characters you care for. The cast is first rate, the direction inventive and technically the film is well done. Just two examples: The use of a ghost image to express Vidya's dilemma of having to condemn Raj while still loving him and the use of rain/smoke in the love song. The rain/smoke patterns are subtle but wonderful. The songs are among the most popular in Hindi cinema and not one is weak or a filler. A timeless classic that will never become outdated. Unfortunately there is no good DVD around and the film needs restoration (as practically all older Bollywood films (and most newer ones too)).

"Shree 420" is a classic Bollywood film directed by Raj Kapoor and released in 1955. Starring Raj Kapoor himself, the movie revolves around the story of a young man named Raj who comes to the big city of Bombay (now Mumbai) with dreams of success and wealth. However, he soon realizes that the city is filled with corruption and deceit.

The film addresses various social issues prevalent at the time, such as the exploitation of the poor by the rich and the lure of quick money. Raj Kapoor's character, Raj, represents the common man who is easily swayed by materialistic desires but eventually learns the importance of honesty and integrity.

Composed by Shankar-Jaikishan, with lyrics by Shailendra and Hasrat Jaipuri, the songs, including the iconic "Mera Joota Hai Japani" and "Pyaar Hua Ikraar Hua," have become timeless classics and continue to be loved by audiences even today.

Raj Kapoor's performance in the film is stellar, showcasing his versatility as an actor. He effortlessly portrays the transformation of his character from an innocent and naive young man to someone who becomes disillusioned with the city's corruption. Nargis, who plays Vidya, Raj's love interest, delivers a memorable performance as well, bringing depth and emotion to her character.

The screenplay of "Shree 420" effectively captures the contrasting elements of hope and despair, humor and tragedy, and romance and social commentary. Raj Kapoor's direction ensures a balanced narrative that keeps the audience engaged throughout.

The film's cinematography, though dated by today's standards, was groundbreaking for its time. It beautifully captures the essence of Bombay, showcasing both its vibrant streets and the stark reality of its slums.

Overall, "Shree 420" is a classic Bollywood film that combines elements of romance, drama, and social commentary. It remains relevant even after several decades, as its themes of greed, corruption, and the struggle for a better life still resonate with audiences today. The movie's memorable performances, outstanding music, and Raj Kapoor's directorial vision make it a must-watch for any fan of Indian cinema or those interested in exploring the golden era of Bollywood.

Story: Good The film centers on Raj Kapoor, a poor but educated orphan who comes to Bombay with dreams of success but fall in prey of unethical lifestyle.

The writer's narrative presents a scathing critique of societal norms through a socialist lens, portraying the wealthy as villainous and the poor as victims. The film tackles issues like elitism, the devaluation of education, and the destructive nature of gambling, delivering a powerful social commentary.

Screenplay: Gripping The screenplay will not let you bore. Every aspect of the screenplay was enjoyable.

Characters: Good Ranbir Raj / Rajkumar Saxena: He was poor who came to mumbai to earn living but soon realize that this city is not ethical and got influenced by rich lifestyle earned by unethical ways and gambling.

Vidya: She was the love intrest of raj. She was shown poor but very ethical & self respectful. She was the one who took raj to path of ethics.

Seth Sonachand Dharmanand: He was the popular rich businessman of the city. He was very selfish, unethical and evil. He earned his money by fooling other person. His character deserved more screen time.

Maya: She was mistress like lady of rich people. She herself was elitist & evil.

Rest characters had a small role.

Dialogues: Good

Performances: Phenomenal Raj kapoor: He had a inconsistent performance as he tried to copy Charlie Chaplin in some parts which seemed overacting otherwise had aced role. His dialogue delivery was superb.

Nargis: Next level performance by nargis. Her expressions enhanced every scenes. She was looking like a dream, very gorgeous.

Nadira: She did her part well as a evil lady.

Nemo: He did a good job.

Rest all actors had a small role.

Direction: Superb The director was clear about his narrative thus all the scenes were relevant.

Music and BGM: Iconic All songs were iconic & remembered till date. BGM was also best.

Production value: To the point

Editing: Good

Ideology: The writer's narrative embodies a socialist ideology, presenting a straightforward critique of societal ills. The wealthy are depicted as exploitative, utilizing unethical means to amass wealth, while the poor suffer as victims. The narrative also condemns vices like gambling and immoral profiteering. Furthermore, it critiques urban norms, including elitism, the devaluation of education, and the deplorable living conditions of the underprivileged.

Final verdict: The film had a perfect writing with impactful story, strong narrative, gripping screenplay, good character development & powerful dialogues married with phenomenal performances, superb direction and iconic songs. Overall a must watch blockbuster.

0.5- Story 1- Screenplay 1- Dialogues 0.5- Characters 1- Performances 1- Music and BGM 1- Direction 0.5- Production value 0.5- Editing.