Ittefaq movie review: True to its genre

Director: Abhay Chopra

Cast: Sidharth Malhotra, Sonakshi Sinha and Akshaye Khanna

The year's much anticipated edge-of-the-seat thriller is finally out. This one is an official adaptation of 1969 thriller 'Ittefaq' directed by late Yash Chopra that starred Rajesh Khanna, Nanda and Bindu in the lead roles. This film also marks the directorial debut of Abhay Chopra, son of late Ravi Chopra.

No spoiler please!!! With the most unique marketing strategy, the makers guarded the film in every possible way. An absolute silence around the film actually generated a lot of buzz around it. Two murders, two suspects, two versions, 'Ittefaq' is undoubtedly an interesting one!

A popular writer Vikram (Sidharth Malhotra) and a homemaker Maya (Sonakshi Sinha) become prime suspects in a double murder of their respective spouses. Police officer Dev (Akshaye Khanna) gets the real truth out when both offer him conflicting versions about the events of that same night.

'Ittefaq' is a smartly designed taut thriller. The best part of the film is when the time you feel it ends, the actual mystery begins. First half is crisp and pacy, while the second one is slightly scattered, but for a first time director, Abhay Chopra does a decent job. The last few films amongst this genre that held the same thrill factor were 'Talaash' and 'Kahaani' (2012). 'Ittefaq' wont disappoint you, even if you have seen the original one, numerous newer twists and turns make this one a good one-time watch. 107 minutes of songless chase of the real murderer is what the film brings on its platter.

Sidharth Malhotra has surely improved as an actor. His conversations with the cops look real. Sonakshi too is raising her acting bar with each passing film. Her helplessness to prove herself innocent is to look out for. Akshaye Khanna never gives a dull moment. He plays his role effortlessly.

Go and find out the real murderer now and don't spoil it for others, not even by 'Ittefaq'!