Maalik: Rajkummar Rao’s Ruthless Rise in a World of Betrayal and Blood; Releasing on 11 July

The Rise of a Ruthless Kingpin

In Maalik, Rajkummar Rao sheds every trace of his past roles to embody a dreadlocked, cold-blooded gangster clawing his way to the top of a corrupt political underworld. Directed by Pulkit and backed by Tips Films and Northern Lights Films, the movie is a gritty blend of action, ambition, and moral decay. Rao’s transformation is nothing short of electric his portrayal of Maalik is raw, intense, and terrifyingly charismatic.

Set against the backdrop of North India’s volatile political landscape, the film traces Maalik’s journey from a streetwise hustler to a feared power broker. The trailer, dropping July 1, promises “seeti-maar” dialogues, explosive action, and a haunting score by Sachin-Jigar that elevates every frame.

But Maalik isn’t just about bullets and blood. It’s a character study of a man who believes power is the only truth and loyalty, a disposable currency. Rao’s Maalik is a man who commands fear, but beneath the bravado lies a storm of betrayal, loss, and a hunger that can never be satisfied.

Love in the Line of Fire: Manushi Chhillar’s Breakthrough

Manushi Chhillar, stepping into the role of Shalini, delivers what she calls “the most real I’ve felt as a character”. Her chemistry with Rao is palpable, especially in the soulful ballad Naamumkin, which offers a rare glimpse into the softer side of Maalik’s brutal world.

Shalini isn’t your typical gangster’s moll. She’s layered, conflicted, and deeply human—caught between love and survival. Manushi’s performance marks a turning point in her career, shedding the glamour of her pageant past for a role that demands grit and vulnerability.

Their relationship is the emotional core of the film. As Maalik rises, Shalini is forced to confront the cost of loving a man who’s becoming a monster. Their story is tender, tragic, and ultimately, unforgettable.

Why Maalik Could Redefine the Political Thriller Genre

Bollywood has seen its share of gangster dramas, but Maalik dares to go deeper. It’s not just about crime—it’s about the machinery of power, the puppeteers behind the scenes, and the moral compromises that fuel ambition. With a supporting cast that includes Prosenjit Chatterjee, Medha Shankr, and a special appearance by Huma Qureshi, the film is packed with powerhouse performances.

Director Pulkit, known for Bose: Dead/Alive, brings a sharp, unflinching lens to the narrative. The cinematography by Anuj Rakesh Dhawan captures the grime and grandeur of Maalik’s world, while the action choreography by Vikram Dahiya delivers bone-crunching realism.

Maalik is more than a film, it’s a mirror to a society where power corrupts absolutely, and the line between hero and villain is razor-thin. As the July 11 release date approaches, the buzz is deafening. Will Maalik rule the box office as ruthlessly as he rules the streets? One thing’s certain: this is one gangster you won’t forget.

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