Writer/director Bahrani has crafted a crime thriller/comedy that is also an insightful deconstruction of caste and class. It is one of those great films that is entirely entertaining and engaging on it's own but also has layers going on that give you so much to think about.
Gourav is magnetic in his role as a man doing whatever he can to work his way out of his situation. He masters the pathos and the humour balancing it all perfectly. His Balram is razor smart and angry and compliant and honest and responsible. His journey is fascinating and Gourav draws it all so perfectly. His Balram is a a classic flawed hero and his story is one that you can't turn away from.
Bahrani's film is beautifully shot often contrasting images of wealth with poverty in rather subtle ways. There were often times I felt the film could have been more obvious with what it was doing but Bahrami keeps his story restrained, giving it a real sense of authenticity. His film and the characters are honest and complex. He looks at the way everyone is complicit, not only those that are "villains."
The White Tiger is clever and sharp, and engaging from start to finish.
The White Tiger
Starring: Adarsh Gourav, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Rajkummar Rao
Writer/Director: Ramin Bahrani
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