Sharaabi (1984) Poster

(1984)

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8/10
Inspired by...no remake
sharankandhai8 September 2012
This is a classic example of how a good movie can be inspired by another movie and not be a remake. Inspired by the Dudley Moore movie Arthur, this Prakash Mehra directed movie is Indianised. And done very well! After Namak Halaal and Muqadder ka Sikander this is my fave Amitabh-Prakash Mehra movie. The movie costars Jaya Pradha, Smita Patil, Pran, Om Prakash, Ranjeet, Satyen Kappu. Even Suresh Oberoi is watchable in a cameo. The guy who was Amitabh jr in Muqadder ka Sikander (Mayur i think) also has a part in this movie. Music by Bappi Lahiri is okay. Dede pyaar de and Mujhe Naulakha manga de re were hits. Def worth a watch. Even worth repeating.
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8/10
Prakash Mehra's last hit with Bachchan
silvan-desouza17 October 2012
Warning: Spoilers
PM as everyone knows gave the much needed First superhit of Amitabh Bachchan after consecutive flops since 1969 till 1973 with Zanjeer. AB suddenly became an actor to reckon with After Zanjeer, the duo gave hits after hits with Hera Pheri(1976), MQS(1978), Laawaris(1981), Namak Halaal(1982) and Sharaabi(1984) after which they reunited with their first disaster Jaadugar(1989) Sharaabi released when AB was going through a bad phase and he was leaving Bwood for Politics. The film however became a big hit and got him praise and till today it remains one of his benchmarks. The film is a remake of Arthur but the director indianises it perfectly. The film succeeds in showing us how a drunk character can be normal, fun loving, jovial though it all may not be realistic but yet it does drive the emotions. The character is very likable and the situations are superb. The film also drives a message that the result of people becoming Alcoholics are due to misgivings of society. The film has several brilliant scenes like the clash between father and son, the breakdown of AB when Pran rejects the proposal.AB's breakdown again at Munshi's death is superb(the scene wasn't dubbed due to AB's strong performance) There are several funny scenes like the most famous Muche ho to Nathulal Ji jaisi ho and the fight in the bar is superb, the scenes between AB and Munshiji their bonding is superb too. The pace does drop at places especially in the second half, the film is also a bit lengthy as old films were, at the length of 22 reels(2:49 hours).

Direction by PM is superb Music by Bappi Lahiri is superb again after Namak Halaal Jahaan Char Yaar is superb song sung by Kishore Kumar and AB and well picturised. Mujhe Naulakha is still remembered and played during Navratri, Asha Bhosle and Kishore again do a splendid job, Kishore's portion Log Kehte Hai is superb Inteha Ho Gayi too is still remembered, Kishore and Asha again show their versatility. Manzilein Apni Jagah Hai by Kishore is again wonderful, the song got him best playback singer award.De De Pyaar De(both versions) are superb Yet again the chemistry between Ab and Kishore is splendid.

Amitabh Bachchan though looking aged and wrinkled yet does a superb job in his role, he has played a drunkard several times in films like Suhaag but he adds a different touch in this film and conveys all emotions perfectly. His dialogues are still memorable, He had to keep his hand in the pocket as his hand was burnt during diwali but it added well to the character and made it famous. Jaya Pradha is decent in her role Pran is good in his role, Om Prakash is awesome Deepak Parashar is good in his part, Ranjeet is as usual Satyen Kapoo seen for the third time in PM films as a villain after Laawaris and NH is decent Mukri is superb as Nathulal, rest are okay AK Hangal has a brief role and is okay
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8/10
The Deadly duo of Prakash Mehra and Amitabh Bachchan
errpits16 January 2011
Now this is a combination that has been responsible for giving many memorable movies to the Indian cinema...And Sharaabi is a gem of a cinema from the so called "Golden period of Indian cinema" 26 years down the line, the movie is far more intriguing, entertaining and relevant than the modern era Blockbuster movies of bollywood. Its a kind of movie which can please each and everyone. Comedy,drama,action,music,acting,emotion and whatever you would seek for are all properly embedded in a nicely written plot. Amitabh Bachchan has given a towering performance and he is the best we have around and the witty one liners and shayaris are also doing no harm to his presence. Om prakash as Munshiji is good and you will feel for his death in the movie.But the lack of subtlety in his character works against him. Jaya Prada is beautiful and that all I've to say for her. Pran may seem to be too harsh but its all for making the contrast when he's transformed.

Much said It would be better if you Catch this movie and then evaluate this reviews.
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10/10
The Greatest Indian Movie Ever Made
the cool man11 June 2000
OK, I don't know how many people are gonna read this, but even if only one person does, I have got to say that SHARABI is the great Indian movie.

If I had to give one standout facet of the movie, it would be Amitabh Bachan's performance. Voted Actor of the Millennium by the BBC, this movie would have to be his pinnacle, the crowning glory on a career most American actors would never see.

But it isn't just the acting. The two most important features of a movie - writing/directing - are here in a great style. All right, the editing is a bit dodgy, but that doesn't matter. If it makes sense, the rough edges don't matter one iota in a film this good.

If you don't watch Indian films, then that's you're decision, but you would be missing one of the greatest movies made if you didn't see this.
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9/10
Amitabh's greatest ever performance!
amo_118 November 2006
I think Sharabi is Amitabh Bachchan greatest ever performance as an actor. I have seen Deewar many times, Agneepath comes close.

But for sheer acting he displayed in this film i think this has to be his greatest ever performance. The way he acts as a semi-drunk throughout the film and the dialouges he delivers are the stuff of legend.

I know bollywood is going through a re-make trend. I urge film-makers NOT to ever remake this film. It is almost impossible! I would really feel sorry for the actor if a remake is ever made. Whoever the actor maybe he will get humiliated in a the re-make. Amitabh has given his career best performance which can never be matched by any other actor from India.
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A Masala Tale Of An Alcoholic
Chrysanthepop29 August 2009
The 80s is known as one of the worst decade for Indian 'masala' films. However, there are a few exceptions and 'Sharaabi' is one of them. While watching the movie one ought to keep in mind that 'Sharaabi' is a 'masala' movie and thus it ought not to be taken too seriously (a mistake many have made). It has all the masala ingredients that make a successful entertainer.

Prakash Mehra's screenplay is quite interesting. It is overall melodramatic but on a level that works. Kader Khan's dialogues are outstanding. This multitalented individual, known mostly for his comedic acting talent creates his words with a mix of philosophy, poetry and humour.

Then there's Bappi Lahiri's memorable soundtrack with its catchy tunes and fantastic lyrics. The soundtrack is an eclectic mixture of different kinds of songs. Before rewatching it recently, I had last seen the film more than 20 years ago but the songs still stayed in mind. My favourite track is 'Inteha Hogayi Intezaar Ki' while 'Jahan Chaar Yaar', 'Tujhe Naulakkha' and 'De De Pyaar De' are a few nostalgic numbers that brought a smile. The songs are nicely visualized such that they are amusing and captivating (mostly because of Jaya's beauty) and appear during suitable moments of the film. There's also a hilarious item song with Smita Patil.

Amitabh Bachchan succeeds in portraying an alcoholic spoilt brat. Vicky couldn't have been an easy part to play and many Hindi film actors tend to go over the top in portraying a drunken man but Bachchan balances it well. Om Prakash delivers a moving performance and Pran plays his part to the T. Jaya Prada is a sight to behold and she reminds the viewer that she's a good actress and an incredibly graceful dancer.

'Sharaabi' is about 3 hours of entertainment. What makes this one particularly stand out are the dialogues and music. The performances and Jaya Prada's beauty are a bonus. This is proof further that there are a few worthwhile masala films of the 80s.
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6/10
Highly melodramatic, Amitabh's good performance wasted !
Queen_of_pentacles20 December 2006
Warning: Spoilers
Here is Amitabh Bacchan for you, with all the imported whiskeys in the world, and a good looking dancer Jaya Prada to fill up the lacuna in his life ! Pran is his businessman father, who does not understand his son's psychology, and that's the reason, why the son has turned into an alcoholic, but an adorable one at that ! Because, every body around him, seem to have taken it for granted, that though an alcoholic, this is the one with the heart of gold, and not the father, though poor fellow has to work ,almost round the clock, to get richer and richer, keep the empire intact ! And what does the son do ? Make a fiasco of the board meetings, give a pep talk to his hapless dad, about the fruits of negligence, so on and so forth ! Not much exposed to the fairer sex, as per the plot, and the progress of the line so far, he falls head over heels, at the first encounter with a commercial dancer, with a blind father, and a cunning wolf Ranjeet, as her tout, practically, to keep the show going, and make money ! This much to try and gain the sympathies of the viewers ! Then there are so many of those cliché situations, like the expensive diamond necklace stolen by the villain, Meena, the heroine, turning late at Amitabh's Birthday bash, then all those mustache wielding employees going overboard with joy, and finally fleecing the hero for thousands, by giving some reason or the other, and the obliging hero promising even more than they ask ! Afterall, it's practically his father's money ! Plus on music and dance, this heavily painted movie lacks in logic, and subtle emotional scenes, relying more on playing to the gallery ! Om Prakash, in his role, is particularly annoying, in his famous pathetic expressions, and same old style of delivering dialogues ! Full field is open for Amitabh, to exploit ! though he has acted quite realistically, as a rich, spoiled youth, turned alcoholic, the clumsiness of the direction has marred his performance, reducing it to a some what monotonous one ! Jaya looks pretty, but the difference in height is glaring ! so the director has made her dance on the platform, while the hero practically bends on his knees, in that famous number, at the birthday bash ! What was needed, perhaps, a good, convincing, plot line, and other characters more natural, than caricatures ! Lacking in sensitivity, this movie is not one of the best of Amitabh ! Quite a torture, to sit through a lengthy one at that !
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10/10
Sharaabi
dhakakhulna26 May 2006
I first saw this movie in 1985 when I was a kid. Since then, I have seen this movie again and again at least 100 times! (I'm serious) I like it so much...that I could never get bored of it!! The dialogues in this movie are very powerful! "Sharaabi ko sharaabi nahin tho kya pujari kahoge, geohon kogeon nahin tho kya juari kahoge? :)" Those of you who grew up watching movies of Amitabh Bachchan like myself and those of who are his die-hard fans like myself will certainly agree that Sharaabi is one of his finest movies! What I liked about this movie the most is the character played by Amitabh Bachchan of a millionaire's son who has all the money in the world but who never received any love or affection from his millionaire father who was too busy accumulating oodles of money. Despite Amitabh Bachchan's superb role of a drunken character has been shown throughout the movie, he has also shown that a person intoxicated with alcohol can be funny, classy, romantic, and knows how to treat a lady right! Sharaabi is a classic in my books and I highly recommend you see it if you love Hindi movies and if you are a fan of Amitabh Bachchan!!
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7/10
Last hit movie of prakash mehra
dy3849324 May 2020
A masterpiece movie from prakash mehra and fabulous and outstanding performance from amitabh the movie is great to see after so many years the dialogues are good and the songs are all nice.
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10/10
Wonderful 3-hour entertainer
anjshaik15 January 2006
This is an awesome film Dialogues delivered by Kader Khan are so amazing Screenplay by Lakshmikant Sharma is so great Story and direction by Prakash Mehra is at the top of this world Amitabh Bhachchan is so great that i can't even say songs are wonderful what a movie it deserves every award given in the Bollywood industry and maybe even an Oscar such a wonderful film i wish i could just see the copy of this wonderfully written script it feels like it can go on and on taking beautiful Dialogues with it Praksh Mehra should be crowned the king of the 80's for Bollywood entertainment he knows movie and stories and knows how to give them the pace it deserves wonderful movie with directors and actors,scriptwriters unique to 80's Indian cinema just like Sholay this is another 3-hour entertainer that will mesmerize you wonderful job by everybody
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7/10
Amitabh Bachchan's Show
IPyaarCinema26 May 2022
Warning: Spoilers
Amitabh Bachchan's brilliant performance as Vicky, the unloved son of a wealthy man who then turns to drink. Also with Om Prakesh as the family friend who loves and raises him and with Jaya Prada as his love interest, the dancer Meena. Some terrific fight scenes, a bit of comedy but mostly it's AB acting up a storm, playing a drunk perfectly with slowed down speech and a slight list. A cast of villains, none memorable, and a happy ending.
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10/10
A SUPER PERFORMANCE BY AMITABH
PrinceAamir13 October 1998
THE MOVIE SHARABI ADDED ANOTHER STAR TO AMITABH'S SHOULDER.HIS PERFORMANCE AS A DRUNKEN PERSON IN THE FILM HAD PROVEN THAT HE IS THE KING OF INDIAN FILM INDUSTRY,I MEAN THE WAY HE WALKED AND DELIVERED HIS DIALOGUES , WAS PERFECTLY A MASTERPIECE. HE MADE US FEEL THAT HE WAS REALLY DRUNKED. AGAIN THE MOVIE HAD SOME EXCELLENT SONGS BY KISHORE KUMAR . KISHORE IS THE BEST , THATS WHAT I WANT TO SAY. WE SHOULD NOT FORGET THAT KISHORE KUMAR GOT THE FILMFARE AWARD FOR ONE OF THE SONGS IN THE FILM "MANZILEN APNI JAGA HAI RAASTE APNI JAGA HAI".THE SONG WAS REALLY A HEART TOUCHING SONG. I don't FEAR IN SAYING THAT THE TWO PERSONALITIES MENTIONED ABOVE ARE BOTH LEGENDS.
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10/10
Sharaabi is a well-crafted film that successfully tackles the serious issue of alcoholism
disharma-2413115 July 2023
"Sharaabi" is a classic Bollywood film released in 1984, directed by Prakash Mehra and starring Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Prada, and Om Prakash. The movie revolves around the story of Vicky Kapoor (Amitabh Bachchan), a wealthy and spoilt young man who is addicted to alcohol.

The film explores the themes of redemption, love, and the consequences of alcoholism. Amitabh Bachchan delivers a powerful and memorable performance as Vicky Kapoor. He effectively portrays the various shades of his character, from the carefree and flamboyant young man to the broken and remorseful alcoholic. His acting skills and screen presence are truly remarkable and contribute significantly to the film's success.

Jaya Prada also delivers a commendable performance as Meena, Vicky's love interest. Her chemistry with Amitabh Bachchan is palpable, and they share some emotional and intense moments together. The supporting cast, including Om Prakash and Pran, also provide strong performances, adding depth to the overall narrative.

The film's screenplay strikes a good balance between light-hearted comedy and emotional drama. The first half of the movie showcases Vicky's reckless and extravagant lifestyle, filled with parties, alcohol, and disregard for responsibilities. However, as the story progresses, it delves into the darker aspects of alcoholism, highlighting the destructive effects it has on relationships and personal well-being.

The music of "Sharaabi" is another highlight of the film. Composed by Bappi Lahiri, the soundtrack features several memorable songs, including the iconic "De De Pyaar De" and "Jahan Char Yaar." The music adds depth and emotion to the narrative and is still cherished by fans today.

Overall, "Sharaabi" is a well-crafted film that successfully tackles the serious issue of alcoholism while also providing entertainment and engaging performances. It remains one of Amitabh Bachchan's most iconic roles and is remembered as a classic in Indian cinema. If you enjoy emotional dramas with strong performances and memorable music, "Sharaabi" is definitely worth a watch.
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10/10
watched 42 times
prithvirajjagadale17 June 2022
Watched the film 42 days continuosly..... If u want to watch a high level movie its ONLY SHARAABI...... One Man Show Movie..... Millenium Actor One And Only AMITABH BACHCHAN..... Amitabh Bachchan Is Born For Sharaabi and AGNEEPATH.
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9/10
Emotional roller coaster musical ride with mesmerising performance of Amitabh
fnqysfbyp10 August 2023
"Sharaabi" (1984) is a quintessential Bollywood classic that weaves a captivating narrative around themes of redemption, love, and personal transformation. Directed by Prakash Mehra, the film features an iconic performance by Amitabh Bachchan as Vicky Malhotra, a wealthy and carefree man whose life spirals into chaos due to his excessive drinking habits.

The film's direction by Prakash Mehra is noteworthy, as he skillfully crafts a compelling narrative that delves into the complexities of Vicky's journey. Mehra's direction strikes a balance between drama, comedy, and poignant moments, allowing the story to unfold with a natural flow. The pacing keeps viewers engaged, while the visual storytelling adds depth to the characters and their development.

The writing and script of "Sharaabi" contribute significantly to its impact. The exploration of Vicky's struggle to overcome his addiction and win back his father's approval is portrayed with sensitivity and depth. The dialogues, particularly those delivered by Amitabh Bachchan, are memorable and have become part of the film's cultural legacy. The script adeptly weaves together moments of laughter, introspection, and heartwarming connections.

At the heart of "Sharaabi" is Amitabh Bachchan's tour de force performance as Vicky Malhotra. His portrayal is nothing short of mesmerizing, capturing the essence of Vicky's transformation from a reckless alcoholic to a responsible and determined individual. Amitabh's impeccable dialogue delivery, charismatic screen presence, and effortless swag make Vicky a character that lingers in the minds of viewers long after the credits roll. His chemistry with Jaya Prada, who plays the role of Meena, adds a layer of romance and emotional depth to the narrative.

Jaya Prada's performance as Meena is graceful and endearing. She brings warmth and empathy to her character, acting as a guiding light for Vicky on his journey to sobriety. The interactions between Amitabh and Jaya Prada infuse the film with genuine emotion and a touch of romance.

Pran's portrayal of Dr. Bhastavar, a compassionate and wise doctor, is another highlight. Pran's performance exudes a sense of authority and empathy, serving as a moral compass for Vicky. His chemistry with Amitabh Bachchan adds depth to their mentor-student relationship and contributes another layer of emotional resonance to the narrative. Pran's presence enhances the overall ensemble, elevating the film's impact.

The supporting cast, including Om Prakash and Amjad Khan, contribute significantly to the film's overall appeal. Their performances provide comic relief and tension, respectively, adding further dimensions to the storytelling.

In conclusion, "Sharaabi" is a cinematic gem that showcases the best of Bollywood storytelling, direction, and performances. Amitabh Bachchan's iconic portrayal, combined with the adept direction of Prakash Mehra, the engaging script, and the collective performances of the cast, make "Sharaabi" a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences. The film's exploration of redemption, love, and the power of personal transformation, coupled with Amitabh's remarkable performance, leaves a lasting impression with its powerful themes and memorable moments.
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8/10
Superlative AB performance
hds-2405519 September 2020
A very small story is stretched to 22 reels. A truly verbose film. Fortunately with very good dialogue by Kader Khan. Amitabh Bachchan acts very true to the character and is brilliant, like always. Very watchable.
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8/10
Nobody does it better than Amitabh.
nadkarnisumeet4 October 2020
Sharaabi review :

After launching Sharaabi, noted director Prakash Mehra was asked about its plot. "Well its about Amitabh and he plays a drunkard" came his pat one line reply.

Sharaabi, a 1984 Superhit and my most favourite AB film, is indeed that!! It is about Amitabh Bachchan who plays the kind hearted alcoholic. Thats it. Nothing else really matters!!

Drunken scenes were always the superstars fortè (as evident in Amar Akbar Anthony (1977) and Satte Pe Satta (1982)), but in Sharaabi, Bachchan surpassed his past glory as Vicky, a richie rich guy neglected by his forever busy businessman dad (Pran) who recites poetry in a drunken stupor.

"Pyaar se shaayari mein wajan aata hai" suggests his guardian Munshiji (Om Prakash, endearing) and soon enough, Vicky falls in love with the charming dancer Meena (Jaya Prada).

"Inteha ho gayi, Intezaar ki. Aayee na kuch khabar mere yaar ki"

he laments his yearning in to a song which the legendary Kishore Kumar (rumouredly) sang with a peg in hand just to come in to the mood. Bappi Lahiri's music was truly extraordinary and it rightly won him the Filmfare Best Music award that year.

Amitabh's comic timing is also superbly explored by Mehra Saahab in the "Mucche ho toh Nathulal jaisi" sequence. His emotional outburst against dad Pran makes for another memorable scene.

I watched Sharaabi with my entire extended family at Dadar's Plaza Cinema occupying a full balcony row and yep, having a blast!! A gigantic cut out of Amitabh with a glass of alcohol in hand graced Plaza for more than 25 weeks of its run and I used to admire it everyday from my school bus when it passed from there. Swag ho toh aisa. Cheers!!

Regards, Sumeet Nadkarni
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