Cast
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Amitabh Bachchan
as Ajooba / Ali
Dimple Kapadia
as Rukhsana Khan
Rishi Kapoor
as Hassan
Shammi Kapoor
as Sultan of Bahristan
Bakhtawar Murad Khan
as Shehzadi Heena
Ariadna Shengelaia
as Malika
Saeed Jaffrey
as Amir Khan
Amrish Puri
as Vazir-E-Alla
Shashi Kapoor
as
Dalip Tahil
as
Mac Mohan
as
Dara Singh
as
V. Lukyanov
as
Crew
Director
- Gennadi Vasilyev
- Shashi Kapoor
Writer
- Brij Katyal
- Prayag Raj
- Bharat Bhalla
Producer
- Shashi Kapoor
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Action/Adventure/Fantasy film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, Ajooba distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Gennadi Vasilyev brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1991, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Ajooba took approximately 10 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 178 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 200 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 2417 individual shots.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The screenplay went through 9 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1991, when this film was released:
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- The end of the Cold War was reshaping global politics.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Ajooba shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Ben-Hur, which focuses more on action than character development, Ajooba offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Oldboy and V for Vendetta explore similar territory, Ajooba stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: April 12, 1991
- Runtime: 2h 58m
