Special 26

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Cinema S @cinema_sensei Aug 20 A clever and entertaining crime thriller built around an audacious real-life-inspired con. The performances are strong, especially Akshay Kumar and Anupam Kher, while the investigation and heist setup keep things engaging. The story loses some momentum in places and becomes predictable toward the end, but the tension, period setting, and satisfying execution make it a solid one-time watch. See more Jessica G @Jess26444 Aug 14 I really enjoyed Special 26 because it relies more on suspense and clever storytelling than typical Bollywood action. Akshay Kumar gives a restrained performance that fits the character perfectly, while the cat-and-mouse game keeps the story interesting. The pacing is mostly strong, and the real-life-inspired premise gives the film an extra layer of intrigue. Rotten Tomatoes currently lists a 91% Tomatometer and 81% audience score, which feels deserved. See more Taseer A @RT37370720 11/10/2024 "Special 26" is a smart, gripping heist thriller that stands out for its refreshing plot, stellar performances, and a keen sense of suspense. Directed by Neeraj Pandey, the film is based on real-life events from the 1980s, following a group of con artists who pose as CBI officers to pull off daring raids on the wealthy and corrupt. This unique premise gives "Special 26" an intriguing, almost old-school charm, as it cleverly mixes drama and humor with a dose of social commentary on greed and corruption. Akshay Kumar shines in his role as the mastermind of the group, delivering a restrained yet compelling performance that avoids the typical Bollywood heroics. His portrayal of a calm, calculated con artist is nuanced and believable, adding a layer of authenticity to the film. Anupam Kher is equally brilliant, bringing both humor and depth to his role as a member of the team. The ensemble cast, including Manoj Bajpayee as the relentless CBI officer on their tail, adds weight to the story, with each actor giving memorable performances that add layers to their characters. The screenplay is tight, keeping the audience hooked from the very first scene to the last. Each heist is meticulously planned and executed, and the film cleverly builds tension with unexpected twists and turns, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. What sets "Special 26" apart from typical Bollywood heist films is its understated approach, relying on smart storytelling rather than flashy action sequences or dramatic special effects. Neeraj Pandey’s direction ensures a smooth narrative flow, balancing suspense with occasional light moments, which keeps the film engaging without compromising on its intensity. The 1980s setting is wonderfully recreated, from the costumes to the retro cars, lending authenticity to the film. The cinematography and soundtrack further enhance the ambiance, immersing the viewer in the period while complementing the story’s tone. The film also raises subtle questions about the blurred lines between right and wrong, as it presents its protagonists as sympathetic characters despite their illegal activities, sparking thought on the nature of justice. "Special 26" isn’t without minor flaws, as the romantic subplot feels somewhat unnecessary and slows down the otherwise brisk pace. However, this is a small drawback in an otherwise well-crafted film. For those seeking an intelligent, well-acted thriller that breaks away from Bollywood’s usual formula, "Special 26" is a must-watch. It’s a refreshing, entertaining ride that leaves you both impressed by its storytelling and invested in its characters. See more Anjum K @RT90179324 10/06/2020 A great suspense drama admixed with trechearous wit and smart acts making audience wonder!! See more 09/12/2019 One of the best films I have ever seen, 'Special 26' packs in entertainment at its best. With its scenic beauty and unmatched study of the themes, the film based on true events captures the events which happened like no film could. Above all, it is a triumph of Akshay Kumar and Neeraj Pandey, who have given us their career-best performances in a genuinely gripping thriller which is never clumsy. See more 02/10/2019 Enjoyable old-fashioned heist movie about early '80s con artists, with surprising plot twists and fine performances by Akshay Kumar and Anupam Kher. See more Read all reviews

Special 26

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