Known for his socio political films like ‘Apharan’,Chakravyuh’,’ Gangajal’ ,’Mrityudand’, ‘Rajneeti’ , ‘Aarakshan’ and ‘Satyagrah’ , Prakash Jha has already proved that he has deep knowledge of grass-root level politics of Bihar. Through each one of his films, he has tried to present different subjects, skillfully exposing the corruption at every level. The most powerful will keep ruling the people, unless there is unity among people to oppose the system. This has always been the message, through all his films. To portray the tough protagonist in his film, he has always used strong artistes to play the lead role. Ajay Deogan has been his favourite actor for the past several years, well suited to that image of duty bound and non corrupt angry young man.
But, this time he opted for Priyanka Chopra to play the smart non corrupt female Police S.P. in his latest film ‘Jai Gangajal’, which is a sequel to his 2003 violence filled film ‘Gangajal’ However, instead of opting for male lead opposite her, Prakash Jha decided to play the Corrupt Circle Inspector turned Super Cop, for a change. But, this has resulted in Priyanka Chopra performing her role under pressure. This clearly indicates through several scenes, in which they come face to face. It is Prakash Jha, who has displayed his superb acting skills through his role, in all the scenes.
‘Jai Gangajal’ which is set on the backdrop of district Bankipur in Bihar goes on to show how the newly appointed S.P. Aabha Mathur played by Priyanka, tries to improve law and order situation in her district, by punishing the criminals. She dosen’t spare anyone; not even her deputy & Circle Inspector Singh, played by Prakash Jha. But, the Circle Inspector later realizes his position and tries to help Abha in her mission against criminals , not sparing local politician and his people.
On many occasions, ‘Jai Gangajal’ looks like a typical Prakash Jha film. But, this time, he takes away all the credit for his performance, besides his direction. In the process, he has also saved lot of money on film’s budget. In the climax scene, he does all the work like a super cop, leaving only a bit for his female chief.
There is not much scope for music in this film, except for those two traditional filmy item numbers. The film has been overstretched in post interval session, by extending few less important scenes. Ninad kamat and Manav Kaul find better scope in this film and good support comes from Rahul Bhat and others. But, it is Prakash Jha who rules in entire film, though it is a woman oriented film. In short, it can be said, that Prakash Jha is the new super cop of Bollywood.
Rating (***)