Film: Race

Banner: Tips Films Limited

Producers: Kumar S. Taurani & Ramesh S. Taurani

Director Duo: Abbas – Mustan

Music Director: Pritam

Lyrics: Sameer

Story & Screenplay: Shiraz Ahmed

Editor: Hussain Burmawala

Cast: Anil Kapoor, Saif Ali Khan, Akshaye Khanna, Bipasha Basu, Katrina Kaif, Sameera Reddy

Rating: 3/5

A typical Abbas Mastan action, this is a snappy suspense flick on the lines of Ajnabee, Humraaz and Naqaab. This gripping multi star thriller is the story of two step brothers Ranvir Singh (Saif Ali Khan) and Rajiv Singh (Akshaye Khanna). They are into horse racing and its serious business for the two brothers. Race is set against the picturesque locales of South Africa and this latest offering from Tips is all about intrigue, revenge betrayal and greed.  

It is also about a glamorous model Sonia (Bipasha Basu) and a charming secretary Sofia (Katerina Kaif). While Ranvir is in love with Sonia, Sofia is in love with Ranvir. Also in the film are Inspector Robert D’Costa (Anil Kapoor) and his dumb, sultry and sexy assistant Mini (Sameera Reddy).

Race follows the trademark Abbas-Mustan formula with both Ranvir and Rajiv’s aim being to outshine each other for money. In this drama of schemes, bluffing and investigation, the songs look a little out of place. But the film does boast of some more stylized action sequences, with a huge car chase sequence in the climax of the film.

Race is a must watch for all Khan fans. He looks good and has come up with a good performance. Basu and Kaif light up the screen and look gorgeous. However, we are still trying to find out why poor Sameera was included in the film. Anil Kapoor is funny, although he seems to have a Welcome hangover. But the biggest disappointment is Akshaye. Either the actor lost interest during the making of the film or he needs to brush up his acting skills once again.  

But all said and done Race will have all the Khan fans’ hearts racing.

Race is an entertainer and let us hope it adds some color to a colorless box-office on 2008.