Released on December 24, 1993, Darr is a Bollywood psychological thriller directed by the legendary Yash Chopra. This iconic film blends romance, suspense, and drama, delivering a chilling narrative that keeps viewers on edge. Starring Shah Rukh Khan, Sunny Deol, and Juhi Chawla, the movie explores the dark side of unrequited love and obsession. With its gripping storyline and unforgettable performances, Darr remains a benchmark in Indian cinema, showcasing the psychological complexities of love and fear.
Table of Contents
Plot Summary
Darr revolves around Kiran (Juhi Chawla), a cheerful young woman engaged to Sunil (Sunny Deol), a brave naval officer. However, their love story takes a sinister turn when Rahul (Shah Rukh Khan), a college acquaintance of Kiran, begins stalking her obsessively. Rahul’s love for Kiran turns into a dangerous fixation, leading to a series of unsettling events that threaten Kiran’s safety and Sunil’s resolve. As the story unfolds, the film delves into the psychological depths of Rahul’s character, creating an intense and suspenseful narrative.
What’s Good?
One of the standout aspects of Darr is Shah Rukh Khan’s portrayal of Rahul. His performance as the obsessive lover is both chilling and compelling, showcasing his ability to evoke fear and sympathy simultaneously. This role marked a turning point in his career, establishing him as a versatile actor capable of taking on complex characters.
Juhi Chawla delivers a heartfelt performance as Kiran, capturing the innocence and vulnerability of her character. Sunny Deol, as Sunil, provides a strong and balanced contrast to Rahul’s erratic behavior, embodying the traits of a dependable protector.
Yash Chopra’s direction is masterful, blending romance and suspense seamlessly. The film’s pacing keeps the audience engaged, while the screenplay, written by Honey Irani, adds depth to the characters and their relationships.
The music, composed by Shiv-Hari, is another highlight of the movie. Songs like “Jaadu Teri Nazar” and “Tu Mere Saamne” became instant classics, complementing the film’s mood and enhancing its emotional impact. The background score effectively heightens the tension during pivotal scenes, adding to the overall atmosphere.
Cinematographer Manmohan Singh captures the contrasting moods of the film beautifully, from the serene landscapes to the intense, claustrophobic moments of fear. The visual storytelling adds another layer of depth, making Darr a visually striking film.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths
- Performances: Shah Rukh Khan’s nuanced portrayal of Rahul is undoubtedly the film’s strongest point. Juhi Chawla and Sunny Deol also deliver commendable performances.
- Direction: Yash Chopra’s ability to balance romance and psychological thriller elements is remarkable.
- Music: The soundtrack and background score are timeless, enhancing the narrative.
- Cinematography: Stunning visuals that effectively convey the film’s mood.
Weaknesses
- Pacing: Some portions of the film, especially in the second half, feel slightly stretched.
- Character Development: While Rahul’s character is well-explored, Sunil’s backstory could have been fleshed out more to create a stronger emotional connection.
- Dated Elements: Certain scenes and dialogues may feel outdated to contemporary audiences.
Target Audience
Darr is a must-watch for fans of psychological thrillers and intense dramas. The movie appeals to those who enjoy complex characters and gripping narratives. While families may appreciate the emotional depth, the darker themes make it more suitable for mature audiences. Shah Rukh Khan fans, in particular, will relish his unforgettable performance.
Box Office Details
Darr was made on a budget of approximately INR 4 crore, a significant amount for its time. The film was a commercial success, earning a worldwide gross of around INR 21 crore. Here’s a breakdown of its first five days at the box office:
- Day 1 (India): INR 0.95 crore
- Day 2 (India): INR 1.05 crore
- Day 3 (India): INR 1.15 crore
- Day 4 (India): INR 0.90 crore
- Day 5 (India): INR 0.85 crore
Overseas, the movie performed well, particularly in regions with a significant Indian diaspora. Its success cemented Yash Chopra’s reputation as a master storyteller and established Shah Rukh Khan as a bankable star.
Recommendation
Darr is a cinematic masterpiece that combines romance, suspense, and psychological drama to create an unforgettable experience. With stellar performances, gripping direction, and timeless music, it remains a must-watch for fans of Indian cinema. If you enjoy stories that delve into the complexities of human emotions, Darr is a film you shouldn’t miss.
Genres:
Drama, Thriller, Action, Romance
Rating:
6.8/10
Cast:
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Sunny Deol | Sunil Malhotra |
| Juhi Chawla Mehta | Kiran Awasti |
| Shah Rukh Khan | Rahul Mehra |
| Anupam Kher | Vijay Awasti |
| Dalip Tahil | Captain Mehra |
| Tanvi Azmi | Poonam Awasthi |
| Annu Kapoor | Vikram “Vicky” Oberoi |
| Vikas Anand | The Psychiatrist |
| Piloo J. Wadia | Irritated Hotel Manager |
How is Our Review?
Let us know if you liked our review of Darr through the comment box, so that we can keep creating such content for you.
Disclaimer: Some of the information on the article, including box office collection, cast, crew, and movie details, is sourced from IMDb. However, our reviews are based on our team's firsthand viewing experience and reflect our honest opinions about the movie.
