Don, an action-thriller film, was released on October 20, 2006. Directed by Farhan Akhtar, this Bollywood remake of the 1978 classic brings a modern twist to the story of a criminal mastermind. Starring Shah Rukh Khan in a dual role, along with Priyanka Chopra, Boman Irani, and Arjun Rampal, the movie is packed with suspense, action, and style. With its sleek cinematography, gripping narrative, and chart-topping music, Don has become a cult classic that redefined the action genre in Indian cinema.
Table of Contents
- Plot Summary
- What’s Good?
- Stellar Performances
- Direction and Screenplay
- Cinematography and Action Sequences
- Music and Background Score
- Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strengths
- Weaknesses
- Target Audience
- Box Office Details
- Day-Wise Earnings (India and Overseas)
- Recommendation
- Genres:
- Rating:
- Cast:
- How is Our Review?
- About the Author: Ram
Plot Summary
The story revolves around Don (Shah Rukh Khan), a cunning and ruthless criminal who leads an international drug cartel. The police, led by DCP De Silva (Boman Irani), devise a plan to capture him. When Don is injured in a police encounter, De Silva replaces him with Vijay, a lookalike who is unaware of the dangerous mission he is stepping into. Vijay must infiltrate Don’s gang, gain their trust, and help the police dismantle the cartel. However, twists and turns keep the audience guessing about who is truly in control. The film’s intricate plot, coupled with high-octane action, keeps viewers hooked till the very end.
What’s Good?
Stellar Performances
Shah Rukh Khan delivers a powerhouse performance, seamlessly transitioning between the suave and menacing Don and the naive yet determined Vijay. Priyanka Chopra shines as Roma, a strong and independent woman seeking revenge for her brother’s death. Boman Irani and Arjun Rampal also deliver compelling performances that add depth to the story.
Direction and Screenplay
Farhan Akhtar’s direction brings a contemporary edge to the classic tale. The screenplay, co-written by Akhtar and Salim-Javed, is tight and engaging, with sharp dialogues that enhance the narrative’s intensity. The modernized plot twists add layers of intrigue and keep the audience invested.
Cinematography and Action Sequences
The film’s cinematography, helmed by Mohanan, is visually stunning. The sleek and stylish visuals capture the essence of the story, from the bustling streets of Malaysia to the high-stakes action sequences. The choreography of the action scenes, including car chases and hand-to-hand combat, is top-notch and adds to the film’s adrenaline-pumping appeal.
Music and Background Score
The soundtrack, composed by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, is a standout feature of the film. Songs like “Aaj Ki Raat,” “Main Hoon Don,” and “Ye Mera Dil” are iconic and elevate the movie’s mood. The background score by Salim-Sulaiman complements the tension and drama, enhancing the overall cinematic experience.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths
- Innovative Plot: The film’s modernized storyline, with unexpected twists, keeps the audience engaged.
- Charismatic Lead: Shah Rukh Khan’s dual role is a major highlight, showcasing his versatility and star power.
- Visual Appeal: The stylish cinematography and slick editing make the film visually captivating.
- Memorable Music: The songs and background score are perfectly integrated into the narrative, adding to the film’s charm.
Weaknesses
- Pacing Issues: The film’s second half occasionally slows down, which might test the patience of some viewers.
- Underdeveloped Characters: Some supporting characters, like Jasjit (Arjun Rampal), could have been explored more deeply to add emotional weight.
- Predictability in Parts: While the twists are intriguing, a few moments feel predictable, especially for those familiar with the original.
Target Audience
Don caters to fans of action-thrillers and Shah Rukh Khan enthusiasts. The film’s stylish presentation and gripping narrative make it a must-watch for those who enjoy suspenseful plots with a touch of glamour. It’s an ideal choice for audiences who appreciate high-octane action, memorable music, and charismatic performances. While it’s primarily aimed at action lovers, the emotional undertones and strong female characters broaden its appeal.
Box Office Details
- Total Budget: INR 38 crore.
- Worldwide Box Office Collection: INR 105 crore.
Day-Wise Earnings (India and Overseas)
| Day | India (INR) | Overseas (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | 4.8 crore | 2.5 crore |
| Day 2 | 5.6 crore | 3 crore |
| Day 3 | 6.2 crore | 3.2 crore |
| Day 4 | 3.5 crore | 1.8 crore |
| Day 5 | 3 crore | 1.5 crore |
The film was a commercial success, earning praise for its innovative storytelling and stylish execution. Its box office performance was bolstered by Shah Rukh Khan’s star power and strong word-of-mouth.
Recommendation
Don is a thrilling cinematic experience that combines style, substance, and stellar performances. With its engaging narrative, stunning visuals, and unforgettable music, it’s a must-watch for fans of action and suspense. Whether you’re a Shah Rukh Khan admirer or a lover of well-crafted thrillers, Don delivers on all fronts. Don’t miss this modern classic that redefines the genre with its unique flair!
Genres:
Action, Drama, Thriller
Rating:
6.877/10
Cast:
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Shah Rukh Khan | Mark “Don” Donald / Vijay Pal |
| Priyanka Chopra Jonas | Roma Bhagat |
| Arjun Rampal | Jasjit “JJ” Ahuja |
| Boman Irani | DCP DeSilva / Vardhaan Makhija |
| Om Puri | Vishal Malik |
| Pavan Malhotra | Narang Singh |
| Rajesh Khattar | Sanjeev Singhania |
| Isha Koppikar | Anita Sinha |
| Kareena Kapoor Khan | Kamini / Sonia |
| Diwakar Pundir | Ramesh |
| Tanay Chheda | Dipu |
| Chunky Pandey | Teja (T.J.) |
| Sushma Reddy | Geeta |
| Shakeel Khan | Mac |
| Shaharuddin Thamby | Malaysian Officer 1 |
| Kuldeep Sareen | Jairaj |
| Micky Makhija | Mr. Joshi |
| Bikramjeet Kanwarpal | Doctor Ashok Khilwani |
| Avani Batra | NDTV Reporter |
| Naeim Ghalili | Malay Businessman |
| Akhil Mishra | MIgrant Worker 1 |
| Jayant Gadekar | Migrant Worker 2 |
| Shakun Batra | Migrant Worker 3 |
| Satyajit Sharma | Mystery Man |
How is Our Review?
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Disclaimer: Some of the information on the article, including box office collection, cast, crew, and movie details, is sourced from IMDb. However, our reviews are based on our team's firsthand viewing experience and reflect our honest opinions about the movie.
