Shootout at Lokhandwala is a Bollywood action-crime thriller released on May 25, 2007. Directed by Apoorva Lakhia, the film is inspired by the 1991 Lokhandwala Complex shootout in Mumbai, where a massive gun battle took place between the Mumbai Police and gangster Maya Dolas and his men.
With an ensemble cast featuring Amitabh Bachchan, Sanjay Dutt, Vivek Oberoi, Suniel Shetty, Arbaaz Khan, and Tusshar Kapoor, the movie delivers a raw and intense viewing experience. Combining action-packed sequences, dramatic storytelling, and powerful performances, Shootout at Lokhandwala remains one of Bollywood’s most iconic crime dramas. This review explores the movie’s highlights, strengths, weaknesses, box office performance, and more.
Plot Summary
The film follows ACP Shamsher Khan (Sanjay Dutt), a fearless police officer determined to rid Mumbai of organized crime. He forms a special task force and leads a brutal operation to eliminate Maya Dolas (Vivek Oberoi), a ruthless gangster under Dawood Ibrahim’s D-Company.
As the movie unfolds, we witness the intense rivalry between the law and the underworld. Maya Dolas and his gang establish their dominance in Mumbai, refusing to bow down to bigger criminal organizations. Their defiance leads to an all-out confrontation with the police in a dramatic, action-packed climax at the Lokhandwala Complex.
The film portrays both sides of the battle—the struggles of law enforcement officers and the rise of crime in Mumbai’s streets—offering a gripping look at one of India’s most talked-about encounters.
What’s Good?
1. Stellar Performances
- Vivek Oberoi delivers one of his best performances as Maya Dolas, portraying the gangster’s arrogance, aggression, and desperation with finesse.
- Sanjay Dutt, as the determined ACP, brings authority and intensity to his role.
- Amitabh Bachchan, as advocate Dhingra, adds depth to the narrative, questioning police brutality and ethics.
- Suniel Shetty, Arbaaz Khan, and Tusshar Kapoor support well with strong performances.
2. Direction and Storytelling
- Apoorva Lakhia maintains a fast-paced narrative, ensuring that the tension remains high throughout.
- The film captures Mumbai’s crime world authentically, making it a gritty and realistic crime drama.
3. Action Sequences
- The shootout scenes are intense, well-choreographed, and gripping.
- The use of slow-motion shots enhances the impact of key action moments.
4. Music and Background Score
- Songs like ‘Ganpat’ became hugely popular and added to the film’s raw energy.
- Amar Mohile’s background score intensifies the tension and drama.
5. Realism and Dialogues
- The film’s dialogues, filled with street-smart language, enhance the characters’ authenticity.
- The portrayal of police brutality and gang violence is raw and unfiltered.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Powerful performances by a talented cast.
- Realistic depiction of Mumbai’s underworld.
- Engaging screenplay with high-intensity action.
- Memorable music that enhances the film’s gritty vibe.
Weaknesses:
- Some scenes feel over-dramatized, reducing their impact.
- Predictable story, especially for those familiar with the real-life incident.
- The film focuses heavily on action, leaving emotional depth underdeveloped.
Target Audience
This movie is best suited for:
- Action lovers who enjoy high-intensity gunfights and chase sequences.
- Crime thriller fans interested in real-life gangster stories.
- Bollywood audiences who appreciate power-packed performances and strong dialogues.
- Not recommended for family viewing due to its violent content and harsh language.
Box Office Details
| Factor | Amount (INR) |
|---|---|
| Budget | ₹19 crore |
| Worldwide Collection | ₹49 crore |
| India First-Day Collection | ₹3.50 crore |
| India First-Weekend Collection | ₹14 crore |
| Overseas First-Weekend Collection | ₹5.2 crore |
Day-wise Earnings (India and Overseas)
| Day | India (INR Crore) | Overseas (INR Crore) |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | 3.50 | 1.20 |
| Day 2 | 4.80 | 1.50 |
| Day 3 | 5.70 | 1.80 |
| Day 4 | 2.90 | 0.70 |
| Day 5 | 2.20 | 0.50 |
Despite its violent theme, the film was a box office success, performing well in both India and overseas markets.
Recommendation
Shootout at Lokhandwala is a gripping action thriller that delivers on its promise of intense drama and thrilling gunfights. With strong performances, a realistic storyline, and high-paced action, it’s a must-watch for crime thriller fans. If you enjoy high-octane action and gritty storytelling, this movie should be on your watchlist.
