Reviewed by Rama Gaind.
Director: Gauravv K. Chawla, Netflix.
Cast: Saif Ali Khan, Rohan Mehra, Radhika Apte, Chitrangada Singh.
An unexpected surprise, this Bollywood feature works to advantage. A trading drama, Bazaar is about money, power and the stock market. It’s not exhilarating, but remains buoyant because of some convincing performances.
Rizwan Ahmed (Mehra) is an ambitious young man who moves to Mumbai and becomes a stock trader, joining a business against his father’s wishes, who places strong emphasis on loyalty.
From Allahabad, Rizwan is bright, well-educated and has grand dreams. Now it’s his turn to try his luck and realise his ambitions.
Shakun Kothari (Khan) is a small town boy from Surat, who has become the ‘wolf’ of the stock trading market. Understanding “only maths”, he’s known for his business shrewdness.
Rizwan worships Shakun and wants to follow in his footsteps. Trouble looms when he has to use insider information to his advantage.
The core of this film is how Rizwan makes his presence felt in the city due to his “emotional understanding” of the market, learning acrimonious lessons and rebounds.
As the debutant in the role of the “boy with a small town mentality,” Rohan is sincere and is a natural performer. He lacks the appeal of a star, but more than makes up with his striking acting skills. He is endearing.
As the polished, but scheming stock market veteran, Saif is believable, but not exceptional. He fits the character perfectly, but does not make any real effort to add shades to his characterisation.
Adding the glamour factor, Apte essays her role perfectly as Priya, Rizwan’s colleague and love interest. As Shakun’s wife, Singh, is wasted in her tiny role, not towing the line with him. There is also capable support by other actors, who play minor roles.
