Revisiting Rajkummar Rao in HIT: The First Case, writes Shanku Sharma

//Shanku Sharma//

Rajkummar Rao, one of Bollywood’s finest contemporary actors, delivered yet another stellar performance in Sailesh Kolanu’s 2022 thriller, HIT: The First Case. A Hindi adaptation of Kolanu’s own Telugu film, the movie showcased Rao’s extraordinary ability to embody complex characters, cementing his place as a versatile and fearless performer.

HIT: The First Case is a gripping thriller that follows Vikram Jaisingh (played by Rajkummar Rao), a brilliant but troubled police officer working for the Homicide Intervention Team (HIT). Struggling with PTSD and battling inner demons, Vikram is assigned to solve the mysterious disappearance of a young woman. The case not only tests his professional acumen but also forces him to confront his dark past.

What makes Rao’s performance remarkable is his ability to blend vulnerability with intensity. As Vikram, he portrays a man haunted by his past yet fiercely committed to justice. His nuanced expressions, body language, and controlled outbursts make the audience feel every ounce of Vikram’s pain, frustration, and determination.

Rao brings a deep emotional core to the character. Scenes where Vikram battles anxiety attacks are performed with raw authenticity, leaving the audience empathetic to his plight.

From his restrained demeanour during interrogations to his restless energy in moments of crisis, Rao ensures every gesture reflects Vikram’s psychological state.

In a genre often dominated by high-octane action, Rao balances the thrills with a deeply emotional performance, making Vikram relatable and human.

Director Sailesh Kolanu deserves credit for crafting a taut narrative and trusting Rao to bring his vision to life. By blending a compelling whodunit with a character-driven story, Kolanu gave Rao the perfect canvas to display his acting prowess.

Critics and audiences alike praised Rajkummar Rao’s performance as the highlight of the film. His ability to shoulder the narrative, despite its layered storytelling and intense atmosphere, was universally lauded.

Rajkummar Rao has built a career on taking risks, choosing roles that challenge both him and his audience. From the restrained elegance in Shahid to the quirky charm in Stree, Rao consistently proves his mettle. HIT: The First Case adds another feather to his cap, reaffirming his commitment to portraying multi-dimensional characters.

The film resonated with viewers not only as a suspenseful thriller but also as a deeply human story. Rao’s portrayal of a flawed yet determined cop struck a chord, making the audience root for Vikram both as a professional and as a person.

As Rajkummar Rao continues to explore challenging roles, HIT: The First Case stands as a testament to his unparalleled talent. With a sequel, HIT: The Second Case, on the horizon, fans eagerly await what’s next for both Rao and the intriguing world of HIT.

In HIT: The First Case, Rajkummar Rao not only anchors the film but transforms it into a compelling character study. His brilliance lies in making complex emotions look effortless, reminding us why he remains one of Bollywood’s most reliable actors. For those who appreciate cinema driven by powerful performances, Rao’s act in HIT is a masterclass worth revisiting.