Chhal: Revisiting Hansal Mehta’s Gangster Epic After 23 Years

Hansal Mehta’s ‘Chhal’ is a crime thriller that delves into the complexities of the Mumbai underworld and the moral ambiguities it fosters. The film centers on Karan Menon, a police informer infiltrating a gang, and his evolving understanding of ethics and morality. The film distinguishes itself with its brooding ambiance, moral uncertainty, and unconventional storytelling, making it a complex gangster epic. The movie’s moral and emotional depth is significantly attributed to screenwriter Suparn Verma. The script cleverly adapts a Hollywood premise, creating a compelling game of shifting roles between those who uphold the law and those who break it. Mehta’s skill in creating compelling visuals within a constrained budget is noteworthy. The gang-related shootouts are portrayed with chilling realism, while the action sequences show the influence of John Woo’s choreography. The film’s narrative begins with a violent scene that instantly establishes the characters’ roles and foreshadows the ensuing conflicts. The story explores multiple themes, including the internal struggles of a law enforcer and the interweaving of love and violence. Viju Shah’s music contributes to the emotional impact of the film. The art direction and cinematography build a strong visual contrast. K.K. Menon delivers a standout performance as the tormented undercover cop. The film’s editing style and innovative use of music videos further amplify the story’s energy. Despite minor flaws, ‘Chhal’ is a captivating film that pulls the viewer into its protagonist’s inner world.