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Released in 2017, Raees is a Hindi crime drama film that delves into the life and times of a bootlegger in Gujarat during the 1980s. Directed by Rahul Dholakia, the film presents a complex narrative that intertwines the gritty undertones of crime with the moral dilemmas of its protagonist. The movie stands out for its bold storytelling, stark realism, and strong performances.
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Cast and Crew Members of Raees Movie (Hindi)
Raees features Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan in the titular role, delivering one of his career’s most compelling performances as a bootlegger turned mobster.
The cast includes Pakistani actress Mahira Khan, marking her Bollywood debut, as his love interest, and Nawazuddin Siddiqui in a critically acclaimed role as the tenacious policeman determined to bring Raees down. The film is helmed by Rahul Dholakia, known for his impactful direction, and supported by a team that excels both in front of and behind the camera.
Brief Story Summary of Raees Movie (Hindi) 2017
Raees tells the story of Raees Alam, who builds an empire from scratch in the dry state of Gujarat. His business is highly successful but equally controversial due to its illegal nature. Raees is portrayed as a Robin Hood-like figure who does good for his community but also operates outside the law.
His rise to power is met with serious opposition from law enforcement, led by officer Majumdar, who represents the legal and ethical opposition to Raees’s methods. The film explores the grey shades of its characters and the impact of socio-political conditions on their lives.
Online Film Review & Rating of Raees Movie (Hindi)
Raees received mixed to positive reviews upon its release. Critics praised Shah Rukh Khan’s performance and the film’s engaging narrative, though some found the second half as dragged. The film holds a respectable rating on major film review platforms, with audiences appreciating the complex characters and dynamic storytelling. It is often highlighted for its rich depiction of the period and the moral complexities of its protagonist.
Raees Movie 2017 OTT Platform – Where to Watch
After its theatrical release, Raees was made available on Netflix for online streaming.
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Box Office Collection and Budget of Raees Movie (Hindi)
Raees was made with a substantial budget of ₹127 crore (Box Office India) accounting for its detailed period settings, extensive marketing, and high production values. The film was a box office success, grossing over ₹270 crore worldwide, which highlighted its popularity and the strong pull of its lead actor.
Raees Movie 2017 Release and Awards
Raees was released on January 25, 2017, strategically positioned to benefit from the long Republic Day weekend in India. The film was one of the most anticipated releases of the year due to its high-profile star cast and gripping trailers. Upon release, Raees received nominations across various award platforms, particularly praising Shah Rukh Khan’s layered performance and the film’s screenplay and direction. While it did not sweep award ceremonies, its cultural impact and box office success were undeniable.
Production, Filming, and Songs of Raees Movie (Hindi)
The production of Raees was an elaborate process, with meticulous attention to detail to authentically recreate the Gujarat of the 1980s. The sets were extensive and designed to reflect the era’s socio-economic milieu, from bustling market scenes to the intricate layouts of the smuggling dens. Filming locations included parts of Gujarat and Mumbai, with several action sequences that required intricate choreography and planning.
The music of Raees, composed by Ram Sampath, played a significant role in the film’s narrative, enhancing the emotional and dramatic arcs. Songs like Laila Main Laila, a remake of an old classic, became instant hits and contributed significantly to the film’s pre-release hype. Other tracks like Zaalima and Udi Udi Jaye also received acclaim for their melodious tunes and integration into the storyline.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Raees Movie 2017
– Where can I watch Raees?
Raees is available for streaming on Netflix.
– Was Raees based on a real story?
While not directly based on a single real-life story, Raees was inspired by the life of Abdul Latif, a well-known bootlegger in Gujarat during the 1980s, although the filmmakers have stylized many elements for cinematic purposes.
– What are the major themes of Raees?
Raees explores themes such as the morality of illegal activities when used for the benefit of the community, the conflict between duty and justice, and the personal cost of ambition.
– How did Raees perform at the box office?
Raees performed very well at the box office, collecting over ₹270 crore worldwide, and was one of the highest-grossing Bollywood films of 2017.
Raees remains a significant film in the Hindi cinema landscape, known for its compelling narrative, strong performances, and a deeper look into the complexities of crime and morality. It presents a raw and gritty picture of the rise and fall of a man who dares to challenge the norms, making it a must-watch for fans of intense drama and action-packed sequences. Raees offers a cinematic experience that is both engaging and thought-provoking.
