Striker

The high point of the film is its authenticity, its heartwarming tale and its performances.

Clearly, Striker doesn't aim at being a bam-wham kind of flick. Instead it offers a study into the uneasy coming-of-age of an individual on-the-fence over the life he wants to embrace.

Arora’s effort does leave an impact but the wallop is not as strong as it could have been. A pity.

Sure this film is different then. Shouldn’t each be anyway? Worth it, all the way.

...a striking example of just how good a film can be when the setting and the people are real. And it is an equally striking example of how a terrific effort can lose steam when it moves away from its central focus.

You feel you are there in the slums with Arora's characters. But you aren't sure you want to be there. We never stay long enough with the characters to get to know them well.

...despite it’s engaging premise the film doesn’t manage to strike a very strong note.

...is the kind of film that fills you with regret. There is skilful direction here, some nicely etched moments and commendable performances and yet the film never gathers enough momentum to make an impact. Striker never becomes the film it could have been.

The sharp dialogues support a fragmented plot. The smart visuals are accompanied by jarring background music. The story is neither about carrom nor about the communal riots. The movie is neither here nor there.

Slow pace and sub-plots ruin a good idea.

If only for its off-beat treatment and detailing, of childhood buddies and dreams, and subtle romance, this movie is worth a watch. There's no gloss, but lots of substance.

Remarkably shot and competently performed, the film is let down by a confused script that can't decide what point to make.

We are always aware of the broad-strokes version of all that happened, but the lives of these people don’t possess the texture of their intricately etched-out surroundings. We’re drawn adroitly into the feel of the film, but we don’t feel for its characters.

It's a new take on Slumdog Millionaire, albeit not made with so much panache.

As the end credits roll, you appreciate the film it could have been.

...a well-made film and worth a watch.

This one doesn't know where it's headed and what it wants to do and simply goes with the flow. Not always the best plan.

...the multiple tracks and layers in the film act as a spoilsport. The screenplay is patchy and the focus shifts from one episode to another constantly.

The direction of Chandan Arora seems to be handicapped by a poor script. The script has many layers and that makes the task of director very difficult.