Toolsidas Junior review: Sanjay Dutt-Rajiv Kapoor's film has an innocence that will warm your heart

3/5

Story:

Toolsidar (Rajiv Kapoor) was a renowned snooker player who is now addicted to alcohol, even when he wants to prove he is something to his son (Varun Buddhadev). The drinking habits cause a problem at Toolsidas' home and his life as a snooker player. So, his youngest son Toolsidas Junior takes matters in his own hands.

Review:

Toolsidas Junior is a movie that would have marked Rajiv Kapoor's comeback to Bollywood, one he was eagerly looking forward to. This film, featuring Sanjay Dutt in the lead role, was delayed and went unnoticed but now that it is on OTT, every viewer has praised Rajiv for his performance.

The movie actually sees him in high spirits as Toolsidas from the first to last scene. The film, otherwise gets too boring too soon. It is predictable and there's almost nothing that captures your attention.

Dalip Tahil as Jimmy Tandon has a powerful entry. He plays his character well and the first character who impresses you after Rajiv.

The cinematography in the movie is also too fast in certain scenes, to the extent that it comes to a blur. The other scenes are never a distraction but they don't leave you impressed either.

The sound effects have also impacted the film's viewing experience. While tolerable in some places, most of the film is with a background noise that is so yesterday.

However, some scenes really touch you. Whether it is Toolsidas Jr. telling his parents that his dream is to take care of them or him going to all lengths to learn hooker to bring his father's name and respect back among the players, this movie has certain moments that win you over.

This film touches upon the topic of alcoholism which is still a very serious issue among many households in Kolkata. Not only does it touch the topic but deals with it in the best way possible. Toolsidas Junior the film shows how excessive alcohol could shatter both personal and professional life and the best part is, the message is not sent across in the preachy way. The scene between Varun and Dalip at the bar, especially, is one that will stay back with you.

Sanjay Dutt as Salaam bhai has a villainous vibe. The music builds his character almost as much as the actor's look. His is one role that is good in the movie but since the pace of the film itself is slow and he appears only in some scenes, one cannot watch the movie just because of him.

Sanjay and Rajiv's meeting is one-of-a-kind and that is one moment you will want to cherish, especially because it comes so late in the film. This point comes only once in the film, closer to the climax and it actually is the one scene that will demand your attention.

Varun Buddhadev, who plays the role of Toolsidas Junior, acts well and the script is actually revolving around him. However, the performance pressure on a child is too much, especially when you have legends like Sanjay and Rajiv in front of him. Nonetheless, Varun does a great job of what was in his control - acting at least well, if not brilliantly.

Like the whole movie, the last scene is also pretty predictable. The only good part about Toolsidas Junior is the thought to bring forth the real life story of Kolkata's Toolsidas Junior.

Verdict:

There is an old world charm to Toolsidas Junior. It is something we left behind and crave for even today - the innocence and love for people, even if they try to hurt your peace. This film definitely has some special moments but it is also predictable and so, the overall story doesn't particularly grip you. Nonetheless, if you have nothing else to do and want to experience the fun and innocent phase again, then you can start streaming Toolsidas Junior and most likely, not be disappointed by this film.