Bollyvista.com logo

Article Updated 09 December, 2002 04:01:02 PM IST
 
Ram Gopal Varma
By Tushar Joshi ©2002 Bollyvista.com
 
Reality bites, and he has portrayed reality on screen like no one else. A director who always comes up with something new, fresh, and never hesitated to sign on a newcomer. Manoj Bajpai is still remebered as Bhiku Mhatre, Rangeela was a turning point in Urmila's career, Fardeen is still remeberd in his role in Jungle, Aftab Shivdasani, Antara Mali, there are so many other people who owe it all to Ramu as he is popularly called.

Ram Gopal Varma started his film career as a director in 1990 with the telugu hit , 'Shiva' which was later dubbed into hindi. He also tried his hand at the subject of paranormal phenomenon in 'Raat' with Revathi which is one of his most technically brilliant film. His direction, and the way he used the camera became the subject of writings of film critics. However, his first major hit in bollywood was 'Rangeela'. The film that transformed him into one of the most wanted directors . He won awards, and praises for extracting top notch performances from Aamir Khan and Urmila. Munna bhai in Rangeela is one of the most colorful characters portrayed in hindi films. Urmila's image makeover was due to Ramgopal Varma's vision, and his trust in her . From that point on, Urmila has worked in almost every film of his, spreading rumours about Ramu's obsession with her.


'Daud' which aimed at ringing the box-office failed, and critics started ripping and shredding off Varma's directorial abilities. But then came 'Satya' and he silenced all his detractors. A superb film, that not only became one of the biggest hits of the year, but also earned critical acclaim all over. Manoj Bajpai was a gift that Varma gave to the film industry, and Bhiku Mhatre will be cherished as one of Bajpai's best performances ever. The slick camera work, the cut throat editing, and a rapid story telling pace, made Satya a winner.

It was clear that Varma was not an ordinary director who made movies to please his distributors with item songs and super starcast. His films have always been of a medium budget, and with 'Kaun' he decided to experiment a subject that was never before handled. Without any songs, and usual dramatic plot, he wove a web of suspense, terror and intrigue with class.

He produced 'Shool' to give his assistant E.Nivas a chance to prove his own worth. Ramgopal Varma gave Fardeen Khan his first taste of success with 'Jungle' which again was a typical Varma film. He then produced 'Pyar Tune Kya Kiya' and 'Love Ke Liye Kuch Bhi Karega'.

His latest film as a director, 'Company' has already earned rave reviews, and Vivek Oberoi's role as Cahndu would definitely be remebered throughout his career. Extracting performances with ease from his actors has been Ramu's gift. Everyone who has worked with him, have always showered praises on him, for his clear vision and freedom that he gives his actors. With 'Company' he has proved that he is definitely a class above the regular directors badwagon, and would surprise us and excite us with his every new project. The audience is waiting with baited breath to see what he has to offer next!



 
close  print this article Print this Article
http://www.bollyvista.com
 
http://www.bollyvista.com/article/a/36/234