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Released in 2017, Raees is a Bollywood crime drama directed by Rahul Dholakia, featuring Shah Rukh Khan, Mahira Khan, and Nawazuddin Siddiqui in pivotal roles. Set against the backdrop of Gujarat in the 1980s, Raees delves into the world of illegal liquor trade, political power plays, and moral dilemmas, creating a narrative that blends action, emotion, and social commentary.

Plot Overview

The story revolves around Raees Alam (Shah Rukh Khan), a man from a poor background who grows up in Gujarat's dry state, where the sale of alcohol is illegal. Raees rises from a street-smart hustler to a powerful bootlegger, establishing an empire by smuggling alcohol. His journey is filled with ambition, violence, and compassion, as he seeks to navigate the perilous waters of illegal trade while trying to give back to his community.

From an early age, Raees is determined to make a name for himself, rejecting the notion that crime or poverty should define his future. His motto, "Koi dhanda chhota nahi hota aur dhande se bada koi dharam nahi hota" (No business is small, and there's no religion greater than business), serves as the driving force behind his decisions. Despite his involvement in illegal activities, Raees shows a softer side—donating to charity, helping the needy, and being a devoted family man.

However, his rise to power attracts the attention of ACP Majmudar (Nawazuddin Siddiqui), a principled and unrelenting cop determined to bring Raees down. Their cat-and-mouse chase forms the crux of the film, as Majmudar represents the law and Raees embodies the anti-hero who believes in doing wrong for the right reasons.

Themes and Social Commentary

At its core, Raees addresses the tension between morality and survival. Raees’s character is not a conventional villain; his actions, though unlawful, are driven by a desire to uplift his community and overcome systemic poverty. He’s both a hero and a criminal, and the film plays on this ambiguity to make viewers question the nature of right and wrong.

The film also sheds light on the rampant corruption and political opportunism of the era. Politicians, businessmen, and law enforcement are shown to be complicit in Raees’s illegal empire, highlighting the hypocrisy of the system.

The backdrop of Gujarat's alcohol prohibition is central to the film's conflict. It allows the narrative to explore the state's complex relationship with law enforcement and illegal trade, where crime thrives under the radar of corrupt officials. This contextualizes Raees's rise to power and the socio-political landscape that enables his criminal activities.

Performances

Shah Rukh Khan delivers one of his most nuanced performances as Raees. His portrayal brings out the multiple layers of the character—tough yet empathetic, ruthless yet caring. Khan's charisma and screen presence dominate the film, making Raees both relatable and larger-than-life.

Mahira Khan, who plays Raees’s love interest, Aasiya, brings grace and warmth to the film, although her role is somewhat limited. Their on-screen chemistry adds an emotional depth to the story, making the audience root for Raees despite his flaws.

Nawazuddin Siddiqui, as the determined cop ACP Majmudar, is the perfect foil to Khan’s Raees. His sharp wit, dry humor, and moral steadfastness make him a standout. The dynamic between Raees and Majmudar gives the film its tension and propels the narrative forward.

Cinematography, Music, and Direction

Cinematographer K.U. Mohanan beautifully captures the gritty streets of Gujarat and the opulence of Raees's rise to power. The film’s sepia-toned visuals give it a vintage feel, reflecting the era it’s set in.

The music by Ram Sampath is a blend of high-energy tracks and soulful melodies. Songs like "Laila Main Laila," featuring Sunny Leone, became chartbusters, adding to the film's mass appeal. The background score also plays a crucial role in heightening the tension during key sequences.

Director Rahul Dholakia successfully brings together a story that is part gangster film, part political commentary, and part human drama. While the pace of the film slows down in the second half, Dholakia keeps the audience engaged with high-octane action sequences and emotional beats.

Conclusion

Raees is more than just a crime drama; it is a character-driven film that explores the complexities of morality, survival, and power. Shah Rukh Khan’s stellar performance, coupled with strong direction and a gripping narrative, makes it a must-watch for fans of the genre. While the film may not break new ground in terms of storytelling, its engaging performances and social commentary set it apart.