Maqbool(2004)
Maqbool is a 2003 Indian Hindi-language crime drama film directed by Vishal Bhardwaj. It stars Irrfan Khan, Tabu, Pankaj Kapur, Naseeruddin Shah, and Om Puri. The plot adapts William Shakespeare's Macbeth to the Mumbai underworld. Maqbool, the loyal right-hand man of don Abba Ji, is tempted by his lover Nimmi to murder his boss and seize power. The film blends dark tragedy with black comedy, delivered by the two corrupt policemen who act as fortune-tellers. It received universal critical acclaim, with Pankaj Kapur winning the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor. Despite a poor theatrical run, it became a cult classic. The film premiered at the 2003 Toronto International Film Festival and was screened at the 2004 Cannes Film Festival.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- Hotstar, Prime Video, Amazon MX Player, Airtel Xstream Play
- Theatrical Release
- 1 January 2004
- Director
- Vishal Bharadwaj
- Language
- Hindi
- Runtime
- 2h 12m
- Rating
- 7.4/10
Storyline
Miyan Maqbool is the most trusted man in the Mumbai underworld. He works for don Abba Ji and loves him like a father. But his secret lover Nimmi wants him to kill Abba Ji and become the don himself. Two corrupt policemen predict his rise and fall. Maqbool must choose between loyalty and ambition.
“Ambition has a bloody price.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Maqbool
Cast reunions in this film: Naseeruddin Shah & Om Puri (21 films together), Tabu & Vishal Bharadwaj (7 films together), Naseeruddin Shah & Pankaj Kapur (7 films together), Pankaj Kapoor & Pankaj Kapur (6 films together), Tabu & Irrfan Khan (4 films together), and Tabu & Om Puri (4 films together).
Trivia
- The film was originally titled 'Macbeth' but was changed to 'Maqbool' to avoid confusion with Shakespeare's play.
- Pankaj Kapur, who plays Abbaji, is the real-life father of actress Sanjana Kapoor, who plays his daughter in the film.
- The two policemen, played by Om Puri and Naseeruddin Shah, were inspired by the witches in Macbeth but also by Rosencrantz and Guildenstern from Hamlet.
- Vishal Bhardwaj composed the film's music himself, including the song 'Rone Do', which was picturised on Tabu.
- The film was shot mostly in real locations in Mumbai, including the Byculla area, to create an authentic underworld feel.
- Irfan Khan, who plays Maqbool, was not the first choice; the role was initially offered to another actor who declined.
- The film did not perform well at the box office initially but later gained a cult following and critical acclaim.