Watch this movie to experience Ashutosh Rana's iconinc antagonist character ' Gokul '.
10 Reviews
A flawed but gripping and well-acted thriller
Peter_Young6 March 2021
Dushman is an unoriginal film which is decently adapted to the Indian context, and it works partially as a story. The film has moments of sheer horror which are tough viewing, including the rape scene right in the very initial portions of the film, but then it's also quite melodramatic and the lack of restraint does take it a bit down. The script has some loopholes here and there, and it does lost focus at times, but when it's good, it's really good, and it manages to be appropriately gripping and tense. Where the film scores big time as everyone already knows is in Kajol's heartfelt and intense performance as the gentle sister whose frustration at justice being denied to her sister and determination to make it finally prevail. The sister is played by Kajol, and yet it isn't much of a dual role because the tough, racy sister, who by the way is the more interesting character, is gone early in the film. The film's villain, Ashutosh Rana, is also excellent. He would perform equally as well in another venture by the same director in Sangharsh. Tanuja Chandra is not a particularly great director, but it's good that this unsettling thriller is directed by a woman. It's very evident that her being a woman contributed to Kajol's character, and the compassion is right there. Tanvi Azmi and Sanjay Dutt provide good support, too, but the latter gets a rather cliched character. Dushman is not a particularly good film, but it's enjoyable and effective and its leading lady's charisma more than makes up for many of its flaws.
After Pran, it's Ashutosh for you to hate
jmathur_swayamprabha26 June 2010
This brilliant thriller starring Kajol, Sanjay Dutt and debutant villain Ashutosh Rana has been directed by debutant lady director Tanuja Chandra who has borrowed the plot from the Hollywood movie, Eye for an Eye, the difference being here is that while in the Hollywood movie, the mother inflicts revenge upon the rapist murderer, here the job is done by the twin sister of the victim. Tanuja Chandra went ahead to direct movies like Sangharsh, Yeh Zindagi Ka Safar, Sur, Zindagi Rocks and Filmstar later on. However this maiden venture of herself is considered as her best till date.
The story belongs to the rape and murder of one of the twin sisters by a sex-maniac postman whose next victim is the other sister. How the surviving twin-sister is able to kill her Dushman (enemy) is the remaining story. The director has given a highly admirable treatment to the plot, making it thoroughly engrossing but for some songs which interrupt the flow of the story.
During 50s and 60s, Pran was the most deadly villain of bollywood who was hated so much by the audience that some years back he had announced a reward for a person named as Pran during that period because people had stopped naming their kids after his name. After him, no bollywood villain could match his deadly baddiness (perhaps with the exception of Amjad Khan as Gabbar Singh in Sholay) till Ashutosh arrived on the scene with Dushman. He deservingly won all the best villain awards for 1998. His presence on the screen in this movie is nothing short of a spine-chilling one. His contribution is the most in making this movie a memorable one.
Kajol has excelled in her double role. Interestingly, Karan Johar's blockbuster Kuchh Kuchh Hota Hai was also released in the same year (1998) but Kajol won the Screen award for the best actress for her performance in Dushman instead of KKHH. The scene in which one sister is being victimized by the villain whereas the other one is listening to her painful and panicked shrieks on the other side of the telephone, is the best scene of the movie in which both, Kajol and Ashutosh have taken their acting performance to the dizzy heights.
Among others, Jas Arora and Tanvi Aazmi have done well. The movie also stars Sanjay Dutt in the subdued role of a blind ex-army-man who boosts the morale of the remaining twin-sister and supports her when she does not get justice from the law for her victimized twin. He is neither excellent, nor bad.
The music by Uttam Singh is okay. However, it would have been better to trim the movie by excluding some songs as the free-flow of the narrative is blocked by them and a kind of laxity emerges in the post-interval session.
Technically, the movie is very good. In fact, it's a pity that such a superb movie flopped on the box office. In my view, Dushman is one of the finest crime-revenge thrillers ever made in bollywood..
The story belongs to the rape and murder of one of the twin sisters by a sex-maniac postman whose next victim is the other sister. How the surviving twin-sister is able to kill her Dushman (enemy) is the remaining story. The director has given a highly admirable treatment to the plot, making it thoroughly engrossing but for some songs which interrupt the flow of the story.
During 50s and 60s, Pran was the most deadly villain of bollywood who was hated so much by the audience that some years back he had announced a reward for a person named as Pran during that period because people had stopped naming their kids after his name. After him, no bollywood villain could match his deadly baddiness (perhaps with the exception of Amjad Khan as Gabbar Singh in Sholay) till Ashutosh arrived on the scene with Dushman. He deservingly won all the best villain awards for 1998. His presence on the screen in this movie is nothing short of a spine-chilling one. His contribution is the most in making this movie a memorable one.
Kajol has excelled in her double role. Interestingly, Karan Johar's blockbuster Kuchh Kuchh Hota Hai was also released in the same year (1998) but Kajol won the Screen award for the best actress for her performance in Dushman instead of KKHH. The scene in which one sister is being victimized by the villain whereas the other one is listening to her painful and panicked shrieks on the other side of the telephone, is the best scene of the movie in which both, Kajol and Ashutosh have taken their acting performance to the dizzy heights.
Among others, Jas Arora and Tanvi Aazmi have done well. The movie also stars Sanjay Dutt in the subdued role of a blind ex-army-man who boosts the morale of the remaining twin-sister and supports her when she does not get justice from the law for her victimized twin. He is neither excellent, nor bad.
The music by Uttam Singh is okay. However, it would have been better to trim the movie by excluding some songs as the free-flow of the narrative is blocked by them and a kind of laxity emerges in the post-interval session.
Technically, the movie is very good. In fact, it's a pity that such a superb movie flopped on the box office. In my view, Dushman is one of the finest crime-revenge thrillers ever made in bollywood..
A good movie
silvan-desouza27 February 2014
Warning: Spoilers
Dushman is known for many reasons though it was not a hit, It was Tanuja Chandra's debut, Kajol's first double role, Ashutosh Rana's debut. The film is a remake of AN EYE FOR AN EYE but is well indianised. It starts off well, on a tense note and the relationship between Kajols are well handled, the twist is well handled and dramatic. The going ons do drag a bit, Also Sanjay Dutt's role was added only for commercial purposes, some scenes don't make much sense at times but the pre-climax when Kajol calls Ashutosh is superb though Sanju suddenly landing there does seem convenient yet the end is brilliant
Direction by Tanuja Chandra is superb Music by Uttam Singh is good, Awaz is the best track while Cheethi is a good song Pyaar To Ho Jaane Do is good too
Kajol is superb in both the roles without overacting, though due to her supposedly unavailability, her dubbing in parts is done by Mona Ghosh Shetty which doesn't suit her Jas Arora is good, Sanjay Dutt(credited first as a dynamic appearance) does quite well in his blind man role but his role was perhaps added for commercial purposes Ashutosh Rana steals the show in a negative role, it was rare to see a newcomer outshine everyone, he is simply awesome though he kept doing such roles Tanvi Azmi and others are okay.
Direction by Tanuja Chandra is superb Music by Uttam Singh is good, Awaz is the best track while Cheethi is a good song Pyaar To Ho Jaane Do is good too
Kajol is superb in both the roles without overacting, though due to her supposedly unavailability, her dubbing in parts is done by Mona Ghosh Shetty which doesn't suit her Jas Arora is good, Sanjay Dutt(credited first as a dynamic appearance) does quite well in his blind man role but his role was perhaps added for commercial purposes Ashutosh Rana steals the show in a negative role, it was rare to see a newcomer outshine everyone, he is simply awesome though he kept doing such roles Tanvi Azmi and others are okay.
Kajol act is superb !
WorldMovie9921 January 2024
Dushman is a story of a young girl who avenges her twin sibling's murder with the help of a retired army officer. The plot though sound simple but is not so in really, because it is like memento where the protagony is weaker than antagony. Dushman is a precursor to Memento having the same interesting set up of hero-villain, mixed with usual Bollywood emotional themes and songs. I heard that it's an adaptation of foreign film 'Eye for an Eye', which may not be exactly, but is significantly different too.
The acting of Kajol is applaudable, double part of both long and pixie cut hair. Both( Kajol and the retired army officer) unites through various circumstances and he agrees to teach her to defend herself, which ultimately leads to avenging her twin sibling (Pixie haired Kajol). Though the real set up of environment is neglected because the emphasis is on the content, which is good, a lady successfully avenges her sibling murder through episodes of rigorous training, fear, violence and blood gore. But the realistic appeal is left out in some parts of the film. The BGM is also used heavily, without giving much thought on its outweighing other aspects. But the thrill is sustained in the film. The songs are also well placed.
Due to this, the film though had a potential plot to contend for being a great film, but didn't get executed likewise, stands as an average psycho thriller. Ashutosh Rana is great as a psycho, as the fearsome character who even lies convincingly to the world despite succumbing to passionate crimes. Other casts are also well done. You could watch it for an average entertaining thriller with an optimistic ending. Kajol act is superb, as the last reminder.
A 62/100 for all its merits and flaws in total.
The acting of Kajol is applaudable, double part of both long and pixie cut hair. Both( Kajol and the retired army officer) unites through various circumstances and he agrees to teach her to defend herself, which ultimately leads to avenging her twin sibling (Pixie haired Kajol). Though the real set up of environment is neglected because the emphasis is on the content, which is good, a lady successfully avenges her sibling murder through episodes of rigorous training, fear, violence and blood gore. But the realistic appeal is left out in some parts of the film. The BGM is also used heavily, without giving much thought on its outweighing other aspects. But the thrill is sustained in the film. The songs are also well placed.
Due to this, the film though had a potential plot to contend for being a great film, but didn't get executed likewise, stands as an average psycho thriller. Ashutosh Rana is great as a psycho, as the fearsome character who even lies convincingly to the world despite succumbing to passionate crimes. Other casts are also well done. You could watch it for an average entertaining thriller with an optimistic ending. Kajol act is superb, as the last reminder.
A 62/100 for all its merits and flaws in total.
Overused concept presented in a brilliant new fashion
f_n8715 February 2006
Warning: Spoilers
'Indianized' version of the 1996 Kiefer Sutherland/Sally Field starrer 'Eye for an eye', Dushman still manages to strike a deep chord with the readers, due completely to the flawless casting of Kajol as Naina Seghal, the sister of the victim (the only discernible difference as in the original it was the mother seeking revenge) The story opens with a happy-go-lucky family, twins (Sonia and Naina, played by Kajol) a younger sister (Diya) and a mother, content in the ups and downs of their small world. This happy picture is shattered into a million pieces as on the day of Diya's birthday, a psychotic postman, under pretense of delivering a letter to the house, breaks into the house, savagely beats, rapes, and murders Sonia (the most heart-breaking scene in the whole movie as Naina is on the other end of a cell phone conversation with her sister at the time of the murder, and is forced to hear the desperate screams of her dying twin). When the justice systems lets this man off, due to witness who changes their testimony, Naina is driven mad with grief and, with aid from an ex-army official (played brilliantly by Sanjay Dutt) arms herself to track this ruthless killer and serve justice where the courts can't. It isn't an easy feat, however, as the killer is all too aware of Naina stalking him and decides to finish her off in much the same manner as her sister.
Though revenge plots are nothing new to Bollywood, this one is different because it does not show a gun-wielding hero stealing agun from somewhere and go on a mad killing spree to avenge his family. It shows a sister, who first has to come to terms with the unbearable loss she has suffered and has to train herself adequately , so she has the means necessary to avenge her sister . Kajol IS Naina and Sonia! She plays the two separate personalities as effortlessly as she plays the tormented twin sister, who can't look in the mirror anymore because of the reflection that stares back at her. I couldn't imagine a better choice for the role. Same does for Ashutosh Rana as Ghokul. I refused to believe that this was this man's debut venture! he is simply terrifying and i had to hide my face half the time he was on screen, simply because of his overwhelming evil presence. The rest of the cast gives perfect support (Tanvi Azmi as the mother impresses) .
A must-see for Kajol fans, if not for the plot than simply for her mind-blowing performance. **********
Though revenge plots are nothing new to Bollywood, this one is different because it does not show a gun-wielding hero stealing agun from somewhere and go on a mad killing spree to avenge his family. It shows a sister, who first has to come to terms with the unbearable loss she has suffered and has to train herself adequately , so she has the means necessary to avenge her sister . Kajol IS Naina and Sonia! She plays the two separate personalities as effortlessly as she plays the tormented twin sister, who can't look in the mirror anymore because of the reflection that stares back at her. I couldn't imagine a better choice for the role. Same does for Ashutosh Rana as Ghokul. I refused to believe that this was this man's debut venture! he is simply terrifying and i had to hide my face half the time he was on screen, simply because of his overwhelming evil presence. The rest of the cast gives perfect support (Tanvi Azmi as the mother impresses) .
A must-see for Kajol fans, if not for the plot than simply for her mind-blowing performance. **********
Ashutosh rana- God of antagonists
partystarterabhi8 February 2020
See The Hysterics Of Kajol.
Vivekmaru4531 December 2010
Joke: Girl: Whats worse than watching a movie with Kajol in it.
Boy: Watching a movie with Kajol in a double role.
In our Bollywood film industry known for making cheap remakes of Hollywood films, this film sums up that situation. I think you don't need a brain, looks or acting skills to become a Bollywood actor/actress.
Back to the film produced by none other than hammy actress Pooja Bhatt daughter of Mahesh Bhatt("Butt"). Incidentally the screenplay is written by Mahesh Bhatt, so you know he has stolen from ideas from a Hollywood film. Combination of two hams: father and daughter. Another "Butt" ugly film
This film also stars Robin Bhatt. Its seems the whole family threw in the sack of beans making this flick.
Also this film marked the Bollywood debut of a nerdy shrimp of a female director: Tanuja Chandra.
The most surprising thing to me is that Sanjay Dutt signed up for this film. It seems NO ONE WANTED TO PLAY THE PART SO.......you get the picture???
Plot(for people who saw the film and didn't understand it. Written in simple English): Sonia and Naina Sehgal (both played by Kajol) are twins. At the same time the police are hunting for a killer and rapist. The man Gokul Pandit (Ashutosh Rana) is a cold-blooded animal and has chosen Naina for his next target. However tragedy strikes when Gokul brutally kills Sonia. Naina is distraught and vows to hunt down Gokul. Gokul soon goes after Naina and she realizes she needs help to overcome her fear of him. With that she meets Suraj Singh Rathod (Sanjay Dutt), a retired and blind major and he helps her physically and mentally to defeat her fear of Gokul. After an argument Suraj refuses to meet Naina and she decides to go after Gokul alone without the help of the police or Suraj.....
Pros:
1.Good music by legendary playback singers Asha Bhosle, Shankar Mahadevan, Lata Mangesjkar, Udit Narayan, Kumar Sanu, Jagjit Singh.
2.Ashutosh Rana is awesome as usual.
3.Also stars Sanjay Dutt as a bonus.
Cons:
1.Poorly shot rape scenes (full censorship as usual). This is a rape film and they don't show the rapes???
2. This film stars Kajol in her most hysterical role.
3. Sanjay Dutt ISN'T nude for this flick (sorry gals).
4. Kajol ISN'T nude for this flick (sorry guys, you can STOP the preparations for a good night's SHAG).
In conclusion: Better to buy the AUDIO CD rather than wasting your money on the VCD/DVD.
Score: this isn't a cricket or football match....butt....4/10.
Boy: Watching a movie with Kajol in a double role.
In our Bollywood film industry known for making cheap remakes of Hollywood films, this film sums up that situation. I think you don't need a brain, looks or acting skills to become a Bollywood actor/actress.
Back to the film produced by none other than hammy actress Pooja Bhatt daughter of Mahesh Bhatt("Butt"). Incidentally the screenplay is written by Mahesh Bhatt, so you know he has stolen from ideas from a Hollywood film. Combination of two hams: father and daughter. Another "Butt" ugly film
This film also stars Robin Bhatt. Its seems the whole family threw in the sack of beans making this flick.
Also this film marked the Bollywood debut of a nerdy shrimp of a female director: Tanuja Chandra.
The most surprising thing to me is that Sanjay Dutt signed up for this film. It seems NO ONE WANTED TO PLAY THE PART SO.......you get the picture???
Plot(for people who saw the film and didn't understand it. Written in simple English): Sonia and Naina Sehgal (both played by Kajol) are twins. At the same time the police are hunting for a killer and rapist. The man Gokul Pandit (Ashutosh Rana) is a cold-blooded animal and has chosen Naina for his next target. However tragedy strikes when Gokul brutally kills Sonia. Naina is distraught and vows to hunt down Gokul. Gokul soon goes after Naina and she realizes she needs help to overcome her fear of him. With that she meets Suraj Singh Rathod (Sanjay Dutt), a retired and blind major and he helps her physically and mentally to defeat her fear of Gokul. After an argument Suraj refuses to meet Naina and she decides to go after Gokul alone without the help of the police or Suraj.....
Pros:
1.Good music by legendary playback singers Asha Bhosle, Shankar Mahadevan, Lata Mangesjkar, Udit Narayan, Kumar Sanu, Jagjit Singh.
2.Ashutosh Rana is awesome as usual.
3.Also stars Sanjay Dutt as a bonus.
Cons:
1.Poorly shot rape scenes (full censorship as usual). This is a rape film and they don't show the rapes???
2. This film stars Kajol in her most hysterical role.
3. Sanjay Dutt ISN'T nude for this flick (sorry gals).
4. Kajol ISN'T nude for this flick (sorry guys, you can STOP the preparations for a good night's SHAG).
In conclusion: Better to buy the AUDIO CD rather than wasting your money on the VCD/DVD.
Score: this isn't a cricket or football match....butt....4/10.
Perfect thriller
ravinderk12222 January 2024
Ashutosh Rana's character was perfect and felt real, this the most thriller character I've seen and made him iconic in this genre. It was borderline scary. It takes you into a world most are not familiar with, so both males and females will enjoy it, especially during sleepovers. I wish there were more characters or movies like these, the side of him thinking he's a higher power or traditional as well makes it unique for lndian culture.
Kajol always looks beautiful but her acting and emotions were so strong, you really felt the love for her sister. The faith of one of them shows reality of life, but the grudge and power Kajol showed means we must keep going on. This movie was highly underrated for her.
Kajol always looks beautiful but her acting and emotions were so strong, you really felt the love for her sister. The faith of one of them shows reality of life, but the grudge and power Kajol showed means we must keep going on. This movie was highly underrated for her.
Emotional outbursts
sameerkhan6661 September 2023
A movie that can bring a load of flood of cries. It is emotional with elements that of revenge. Revengeful. Story about two identical twins, but one day this bond disconnects after a brutal incident that occurs leaving one of them shattered while losing the other of her genetic doppelgänger. It was painful to watch. As always just KKHH, in this movie too Kajol looked so good being a tomboy. Her character was dope, like seriously. She nailed it. Songs were top notch. Song: Awaz do humko-omg so good- so was chitti na koi sandesh, so deep and sad melody. The lover story angle was so so so good between Sanju baba and Kajol. The quarrel dialogues and romantic exchanges of words were so heart touching.
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