UT69 Story:-
“UT69” offers a glimpse into the tumultuous journey of businessman Raj Kundra during his time at Mumbai’s Arthur Road jail, following his arrest in a highly publicized pornography-related case in 2021. Directed by Shahnawaz Ali, the film was anticipated as a potential platform for Kundra to assert his innocence and share his side of the story. However, the film takes a surprising turn, focusing more on the harsh realities of Indian prison life than on Kundra’s legal battle.
Movie Ratings
| Release Date | 3 November 2023 |
| Language | Hindi |
| Genre | Biography |
| Duration | 1h 57min |
| Cast | Raj Kundra, Kumar Saurabh, Gaurav Mishra, Anand Alkunte, Errol Rodrigues, Mahesh Ghag, Sadanand Patil, Ganesh Deokar, Vinod Suryavanshi, Mahadev Jadhav |
| Director | Shahnawaz Ali |
| Writer | Vikram Bhatti, Raj Kundra |
| Cinematography | Kevin Jason Crasta |
| Music | Prince Mulla |
| Production | SVS Studios |
| Certificate | 16+ |
The film opens with Kundra’s arrest and subsequent confinement at Arthur Road jail, setting the stage for a narrative that promises to delve deep into his experiences behind bars. From the outset, it becomes evident that “UT69” aims to shed light on the deplorable conditions faced by inmates in Indian jails, rather than providing a detailed account of Kundra’s legal predicament.
Despite the initial premise, “UT69” struggles to find its narrative footing, opting instead for a disjointed approach that fails to engage its audience effectively. While the film touches upon various incidents that Kundra encountered during his incarceration, including overcrowded living conditions, unsanitary facilities, and encounters with unpleasant jail staff, it lacks the tension and grit typically associated with prison dramas based on real-life events.
Director Shahnawaz Ali’s decision to inject elements of black comedy into the narrative further complicates the film’s tone, with moments of humor often feeling out of place given the gravity of the subject matter. While certain scenes, such as the inmates’ celebrations during the Ganapati festival, showcase glimpses of skillful filmmaking, they ultimately fail to salvage the film’s disjointed plot and lack of narrative depth.
In terms of performances, Raj Kundra’s earnest efforts are overshadowed by his limitations as an actor. While he strives to excel in his role, it becomes apparent that he lacks the depth and nuance required to carry the film effectively. Fortunately, the supporting cast, including Kumar Saurabh, Ganesh Deokar, and Mahesh Ghag, delivers commendable performances that inject moments of humor and warmth into the narrative.
One of the film’s redeeming qualities is its portrayal of the camaraderie and resilience exhibited by the inmates in the face of adversity. Despite the grim setting of the prison, there are moments of humanity and solidarity that shine through, offering glimpses of hope amidst the despair.
Overall, “UT69” struggles to strike a balance between its intended exploration of real-life incarceration and its comedic elements. While the film’s premise holds promise, its execution falls short of capturing the gritty reality of prison life, leaving audiences yearning for a more cohesive and impactful portrayal of Kundra’s experiences behind bars.
