Over the past few years, India has witnessed many scams and frauds. As recent as a couple of weeks ago, there was a scam of a leading businessman featuring a bank. In times like these, this week’s release ‘Raid’ could not have come at a better time. Does it pack a punch….lets find out.

Set in Lucknow in the year 1981, Raid is the story of the longest raid by the income tax department ever! The story is extremely novel and powerful. The screenplay though a little slow to begin with, changes gears after the first 15 mins and almost maintains pace till the end. In a word, Engaging. The dialogues pack a punch often greeted by ‘seetis and taalis’. One man responsible for all the above departments deserves a mention – Ritesh Shah. The music is good though not entirely required in a movie like this. Director Rajkumar Gupta, best known for ‘Aamir’ and ‘No one killed Jessica’ returns after a hiatus of 5 years(last directed Ghanchakkar) is in terrific form and never lets the proceedings wander! Distinction marks to him.

Amit Sial is good as the income tax officer. Illena D’Cruz is wasted in a miniscule role. The two pillars of the movie are Ajay Devgn and Saurabh Shukla who are top notch. A special mention of the 85 year old Pushpa Joshi who nails her one liners.

Overall, Raid is a gem of a film with great content and extremely relevant for India in today’s times. Also, it tugs the strings of patriotism in the true sense. Go witness the Historic Raid in a theatre near you.

PS : India needs more honest officers like Abhay Pattnaik!! Also, say no to black money!!