Gangs of Wasseypur is a two part epic Indian crime film co-written, produced and directed by Anurag Kashyap. It takes place over the course of a 69-year period and follows three crime families in their struggles over power, politics and vengeance. The sequels were originally shot as a single film measuring a total of 318 minutes and screened at the 2012 Cannes Directors’ Fortnight but since no Indian theatre would volunteer to screen a five plus hour movie, it was divided into two parts (159 mins and 158 mins respectively).

Anurag Kashyap has established himself as a pioneer in Indie Indian filmmaking and is now a significant creative force with international recognition. See the myETVmedia’s special feature on Kashyap at Cannes.

http://tinyurl.com/cagzmzm

Stellar performances from Sneha Khanwalkar‘s for the soundtrack combined with Anurag‘sdirection and excellent script writing are the major highlights of the film. Excessive violence and the length of the movie are its weaknesses. Nevertheless, Gangs of Wasseypur is fated to become a classic of Indian’s film culture.

Director Anurag Kashyap, is renowned for his work in creating a niche in Indian cinema’s ‘avant-garde’. His trademark style of story, telling, realism, strong characters, over-the-top sequences, pure local flavor, gruesome bloody violence and raw humor provides an interestingly spin to this twisted tale.

Sneha Khanwalkar layering the singer’s folksy rendition over a techno template in her customary style engages listeners. The energy of the singers and the music is a major contributor to the drama.

On the whole, Gangs of Wasseypur symbolizes the fearless new Indian cinema that shatters the clichés and conventional formulas. Indie filmmaker Anurag Kashyap has earned his reputation doing this. Gangs of Wasseypur has all the paraphernalia to entertain, but with a difference. The film prides itself with substance that connects with enthusiasts of new-age cinema. However, I wish to restate, one needs to have a really strong belly to soak up to a film like Gangs of Wasseypur. Also, this striking movie-watching experience comes with colossal length and duration. The reactions, therefore, would be in extremes. Gangs of Wasseypur is for those who seek pleasure in watching forceful, hard-hitting and gritty movies. Can’t wait for you next feature Anurag! Please make sure that Sneha Khanwalkar is your sound board.

-Christophe Chanel