Guzaarish (2010) - Movie Review

Guzaarish is the heart-wrenching story of Ethan Mascarenhas (Hrithik Roshan), one of the most celebrated magicians in Goa. Ethan is paralyzed owing to a serious spine injury when Yasser Siddiqui, another magician and Ethan’s best friend deceives him during one of his dangerous acts.

A true fighter, Ethan bravely survives fourteen long years celebrating life with immense courage and an unfading smile on his face. He sets out to be a loved-by-all radio jockey hosting a successful show on the radio called Radio Zindagi.

Aishwarya Rai personifies elegance and gracefully plays Sofia D’Souza, Ethan’s nurse for twelve years, who has been sincerely taking care of him. She forgoes her home, family and her almost-broken marriage, unaware of her silent yet deep love for Ethan.

Tired of living a life confined to the four walls, a bed, and a wheelchair, Ethan urges his best friend and lawyer Devyani Dutta, portrayed by Shernaz Patel to file a petition requesting for Euthanasia or Mercy Killing.

Meanwhile, Omar Siddiqui, played by Aditya Roy Kapoor, a naïve young man approaches Ethan with a desire to learn magic from none other than the legend himself. Ethan agrees to pass on his magical prowess to him, in full awareness that Omar is the son of the man who deceived him.

Using Radio Zindagi as an aid, Ethan tries to gain people’s support in favor of his case. He calls it ‘Project Ethanasia’ and asks his listeners for a vote. Much to his disappointment, he learns that all his fans want him to live.

The truly imaginative Bhansali is at his aesthetic best when it comes to the splendid sets in his movies. Sets of Guzaarish are nicely embellished with a rich yet sober play of colors. Much like Bhansali’s other creations, Guzaarish is a musical. The film’s music also composed by Bhansali himself, adds to its sublime beauty.

Hrithik Roshan steals the show with his effortless portrayal of the character. Rajit Kapoor, who has also written the dialogues for the movie, plays the infuriated prosecution lawyer with ease. Shernaz Patel is wonderful as ever. Newcomer Aditya Roy Kapoor also leaves a mark with his on-screen spontaneity and an amusing performance.

Guzaarish is magical, serene and full of life. Guzaarish... is a plea for death!