Director Krishna Vamsi has put a strong dose of realism into Shakti with his authentic presentation of country life in India. He brings about a striking contrast between life in the west and life in the rugged environs of Indian countryside by focussing on the crude and unrefined behavior of the villagers.
Unlike typical Bollywood kitsch Shakti is based on a sensitive subject that explores the mother-son relationship. It goes into the heart of a foreign-bred delicate girl and shows her transition into a loving mother who would go to any limit for the love of her son.
The film boasts of several memorable moments like the murder of Nandini's husband at the interval point, and her mother-in-law, Deepti Naval's outburst in the pre-climax scene. Vamsi has also brilliantly executed Shahrukh's death sequence in the second half. The scene is very emotional and almost reduces a viewer to tears.
Karisma Kapoor proves her mettle playing a complex character that keeps growing with the story. With the mien of a veteran actress she conveys the requisite emotion be it that of a vulnerable young girl or a helpless mother. Particularly her portrayal of a distraught mother fighting for her son in the latter half deserves all kudos.
Nana Patekar too shows his immense emotive range with a performance that meticulously brings about the expressions and gestures of a patriarchal despot.
However, the 'feast for the eyes' comes from Shahrukh Khan, who lends freshness to the serious narrative with his stylish cameo, and Aishwarya Rai, who makes appearance for a song.
Amitabh Bachchan: Grace and humility personified
Ash, Bachchans and a Qawwali
Karisma’s Shakti punctures Bipasha’s sex appeal!
Ash jhatkas add more power to Karisma’s Shakti
