Loosely inspired by Shakespeare's 'Othello', Vishal Bharadwaj's 'Omkara' explores the dark side of human ambition and love. The timeless theme, woven masterfully into the lawless badlands of U.P, creates an impact that Indian cinephiles are often deprived of.

Omkara Shukla (Ajay Devgan) is a local gang leader who's promoted to greater responsibilities after his mentor and politician, Bhaisaab (Naseerudin Shah) is elected to power. This opens up the position of 'bahubali' or chief lieutenant, and long-time associate Langda Tyagi (Saif Ali Khan) believes he's the obvious choice. A maverick sharpshooter with an acerbic wit, he initially comes across as the stereotyped 'lovable-bad-guy.' But when Keshu Firangi (Viveik) is appointed in his place, Langda's multi-hued character comes to the fore. He wants his slice of the pie and deceit is his weapon of choice. He connives to convince Omkara of an affair between Keshu and Dolly (Kareena), Omkara's lover.

What follows is a gripping insight on love, pride, jealousy and how these emotions can send lives spiraling towards destruction. The characters, true to their Shakespearean origins, are well-etched and blend together to create an experience that is so very human.

While some of the rustic language might seem foreign, this movie grabs your attention with the first spoken line itself, and refuses to let go till the intense finale. The last scene (just before the credits roll) is pure gold, and the music complements the film perfectly.

Ajay Devgan displays an understated brilliance and while the rest of the cast does fine justice to their roles,...

it's Saif Ali Khan who steals the show. We should just give him all the awards now instead of waiting till year-end.