Ajay Devgn, Amitabh Bachchan and Rakul Preet Singh starrer Runway 34, based on the actual events finally released in theatres this Friday. The movie is locked in a head-on clash with Tiger Shroff’s Heropanti 2. Word of mouth appreciating Ajay Devgn’s acting and direction has helped Runway 34 gain an edge over Heropanti 2. The film is based on the aviation dramatics that occurred in reality when a Doha to Kochi flight landed safely amid the severe turbulence.
Runway 34 wastes no time and directly gets to the film’s point. The film’s trailer might have given the impression of it being a courtroom drama heavy film but the movie actually spends half of its time in airborne conditions. The film soars in the first half with fast-paced events occurring one after another while Captain Vikrant Khanna, played by Ajay Devgn, tries to find the way to a safe landing.
The visual mightiness of Runway 34 helps it soar high in the sky during the first half. Cinematographer Aseem Bajaj must be praised alongside the visual team of Runway 34 for delivering some of the most enthralling air sequences shot in Bollywood films. The edge of the thrilling seat action of the first half is replaced with the verbal altercations in the courtroom in the second half. This is where the viewers might miss the surreal tension experienced in the earlier part of the movie.
The film starts with Captain Vikrant Khanna possessing a vast experience as a pilot, flying into the storm that threatens the lives of the passengers on board. The first officer Tanya Albuquerque portrayed by Rakul Preet Singh, is rattled by Vikrant’s decision and tries to keep herself composed while fearing the harrowing end.
Once the plane somehow lands safely, Narayan Vedant, an aviation expert played by Amitabh Bachchan, grills the Captain and First officer for the answers behind their actions, defying logic on that fateful flight. Vedant drags the airline owner, played by Boman Irani, into the centre. The movie completely shifts from thrilling aeroplane scenes to an intense verbal drama that tries to uncover some hidden truths.
Amitabh Bachchan and Boman Irani are yet again fabulous in their roles. The two veterans never fail to impress in whatever work they do. Nevertheless, Runway 34 is carried by Ajay Devgn’s heroic and impeccable performance that stays on track even though the movie completely changed from one spectrum to another. The gripping tale is worth watching, but a bit more detail behind Captain Vikrant Khanna’s actions could have made it even more gripping and fascinating.
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