Aks(2001)
Aks is a 2001 Indian Hindi-language supernatural action thriller film directed by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra. The film stars Amitabh Bachchan, Raveena Tandon, and Manoj Bajpayee in leading roles. The story follows Inspector Manu Verma, who captures a serial killer named Raghavan. After the killer's execution, his spirit possesses Manu's body. The film explores the battle for control between the cop and the evil spirit. It is noted for its dark visual style, experimental music, and strong performances. The film won three Filmfare Awards, including Best Actor (Critics) for Amitabh Bachchan. Despite its critical recognition, Aks was a commercial failure at the box office. It was released on 13 July 2001.
Quick Facts
- Streaming on
- YouTube
- Theatrical Release
- 1 January 2001
- Director
- Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra
- Language
- Hindi
- Runtime
- 2h 55m
- Rating
- 5.7/10
Storyline
Inspector Manu Verma is a dedicated cop hunting a ruthless serial killer named Raghavan. After a deadly chase, Manu catches Raghavan and sees him executed. But Raghavan's evil spirit refuses to die. It enters Manu's body, turning the hero into a vessel for the killer's soul. Manu must fight to reclaim his own identity before he loses everything.
“The reflection of evil never dies.”
Film Details
Parental Guide
Where to Watch
Vibe & Tags
Cast & Crew
Reunion Meter
Frequent partnerships reunited for Aks
Cast reunions in this film: Raveena Tandon & Amitabh Bachchan (4 films together), Raveena Tandon & Manoj Bajpai (3 films together), and Manoj Bajpai & Amitabh Bachchan (3 films together).
Trivia
- The film's title 'Aks' means 'reflection' in Hindi, which ties into its themes of duality and mirroring between the hero and villain.
- Amitabh Bachchan and Manoj Bajpayee performed their intense confrontation scenes in a single take to capture raw energy.
- The movie was shot using a special bleach bypass process, giving it a distinct grainy and high-contrast visual style uncommon in Bollywood at the time.
- It was loosely inspired by the Hollywood film 'Fallen' (1998), but adapted with Indian metaphysical and spiritual elements.
- The soundtrack featured a rare collaboration between composer duo Vishal-Shekhar and classical singer Shubha Mudgal.
- Despite critical praise, the film underperformed commercially, partly due to its dark and unconventional narrative for its time.
- Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra made his directorial debut with this film after working in advertising for years.