Vikram Vedha is as good as the original and is a justified adaptation. The script is the same but Pushkar-Gayatri have made suitable tweaks here and there and have also convincingly set the film in Lucknow. Manoj Muntashir’s dialogues are sharp while Sam C S‘s is electrifying and enhances the mass element. But the most memorable part of the film is the interactions between the two principal characters. The way it’s executed and also the manner in which the actors have performed is seen to be believed. Sadly, the film has certain shortcomings. It’s lengthier than the original and at some points, the interest drops. A few developments are not explained properly which is strange since this is a film where even the most random and minor aspects have some relevance. Speaking of performances, Hrithik Roshan is outstanding, to say the least. He gets into the skin of the character and has delivered an award-winning performance. Usually, one tends to draw parallels with the actor who performed a similar role in the original version. In this case, one won’t be able to do so as the superstar has not aped Vijay Sethupathi at all and has interpreted it in his style. And the result will stun even the staunch fans of the 2017 film! Saif Ali Khan, too, puts his best foot forward. His personality and talent make him apt for this role. The chemistry shared by the two is too good. Rohit Saraf looks dashing and puts up a fine act. Radhika Apte and Yogita Bihani do well in supporting roles. Sharib Hashmi, as always, is memorable. Manuj Sharma (Deepak) leaves a mark. All in all, Vikram Vedha is a paisa vasool fare!
My rating – *** ½ out of 5!