Lakadbaggha (2023) is a Hindi-language action thriller film directed by Victor Mukherjee and starring Anshuman Jha, Riddhi Dogra, Paresh Pahuja, Eksha Kerung, Chum Darang, and Andrea Kevichusa. The film follows Arjun Bakshi, an animal-loving vigilante who uncovers an underground illegal animal trade cell operating from Kolkata port.
The film was released on Zee5 on January 13, 2023. It received mixed reviews from critics, with praise for Jha's performance and the action sequences, but criticism for the film's pacing and lack of character development.
Positives:
- Anshuman Jha gives a sincere and spirited performance as Arjun Bakshi.
- The action sequences are well-choreographed and exciting.
- The film raises awareness about the issue of illegal animal trade.
Negatives:
- The film's pacing is slow and meandering.
- The characters are underdeveloped.
- The film's message is sometimes heavy-handed.
Overall, Lakadbaggha is a well-intentioned film with some strong elements. However, it is ultimately let down by its pacing and lack of character development.
Here are some additional thoughts on the film:
- The film's premise is interesting and timely, but it is not fully explored. The film could have done a better job of examining the motivations of the people involved in the illegal animal trade, as well as the impact of the trade on the animals themselves.
- The film's action sequences are well-choreographed and exciting, but they are also somewhat gratuitous. The film would have been more effective if it had focused on the emotional impact of the violence, rather than simply showing it for shock value.
- The film's message about animal rights is clear and well-intentioned, but it is sometimes heavy-handed. The film could have made its point more effectively if it had been more subtle.
Overall, Lakadbaggha is a flawed film, but it is also a film with some potential. With some stronger writing and more focus on character development, the film could have been a much more effective and engaging experience.