Introduction: “Raees,” a 2017 Indian Hindi-language action film directed by Rahul Dholakia, takes its audience on an expansive cinematic journey through the intriguing and tumultuous life of Raees Alam. Portrayed with finesse by Shah Rukh Khan, this SEO-optimized article delves into the intricacies of the film’s plot, the stellar cast, production details, controversies, box office triumph, and the diverse critical reception it garnered.

Plot Overview: Set against the backdrop of the 1960s in Fatehpur, Gujarat, “Raees” unravels the life of a sharp-minded young boy who delves into the illegal liquor trade in a dry state. Raees Alam, fueled by his mother’s unconventional philosophy, rises to prominence, forming alliances with local gangsters and introducing innovative smuggling methods. As he ascends to power, Raees faces formidable challenges from ACP J. A. Majmudar, an honest police officer determined to dismantle the alcohol trade. The film intricately weaves themes of love, betrayal, and the inevitable consequences of a life lived on the edge.

MOVIE:

Cast: Shah Rukh Khan, in a tour de force performance, leads the cast as Raees Alam, supported by Nawazuddin Siddiqui as ACP Jaideep Ambalal Majmudar, Mahira Khan as Aasiya Qazi (Raees’s wife), and Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub as Sadiq Khan, Raees’s trusted friend.

Production: The journey of “Raees” began with the commencement of filming in April 2015. Scenes were shot in Mumbai, with sets meticulously designed to authentically depict the slums of Ahmedabad. Despite facing protests and clearance issues, the film successfully captured the essence of Gujarat, with the last schedule filmed in January 2016. “Raees” faced challenges but triumphed in its portrayal of a gripping narrative.

Release and Box Office Success: Originally slated for an Eid release on 6 July 2016, “Raees” faced delays to avoid box office competition with Salman Khan’s “Sultan.” Eventually, it found its way to theaters on 25 January 2017, coinciding with India’s Republic Day. The film opened on 3,500 screens worldwide, eventually grossing an impressive ₹304 crore globally. It claimed the title of the highest-grossing Bollywood film of 2017 at that time, marking its place among the top 20 highest-grossing Indian films of all time.

Controversies: “Raees” was not without its share of controversies. Initial concerns arose regarding its portrayal of the life of criminal Abdul Latif, though the filmmakers denied any direct connection. The presence of Pakistani actress Mahira Khan led to protests, resulting in a temporary ban that was later lifted. Despite these hurdles, “Raees” emerged victorious, both critically and commercially.

Critical Reception: Critics heaped praise on the film, with Shah Rukh Khan’s performance taking center stage. The power play between Raees and ACP Majmudar, coupled with the masala movie treatment, earned accolades. Taran Adarsh of Bollywood Hungama lauded director Rahul Dholakia for depicting the cat-and-mouse chase with flourish. While reviews varied, the engaging narrative and powerful moments resonated with audiences.

Conclusion: “Raees” stands as a testament to the triumph of storytelling and stellar performances. Shah Rukh Khan’s portrayal of Raees Alam, coupled with the film’s box office success, solidifies its place in the annals of Hindi cinema. Whether you’re drawn to intense action sequences or captivated by intricate narratives of crime and redemption, “Raees” offers a cinematic experience that transcends the ordinary. In the heart of Gujarat, the story of Raees Alam unfolds—a tale of crime, power, and the enduring quest for redemption.