Preview: Agneepath

Vijay Dinanath Chauhan is back! The iconic character played by Amitabh Bachchan in the 1990 film Agneepath, is making a comeback on the big screen, albeit in a new avatar with Bollywood hearthrob Hrithik Roshan.

The 1990 film was directed by Mukul Anand and produced by Karan Johar's father Yash Johar. Though the film didn't work at the box-office, it won two National Awards - one for Amitabh Bachchan for Best Actor and one for Mithun Chakraborty as Best Supporting Actor. The new Agneepath has been directed by debutant Karan Malhotra.

Set in the small village of Mandawa, Vijay Dinanath Chauhan (Hrithik) is taught by his principled father about the path of fire - Agneepath. However, Vijay is left completely broken after evil drug lord Kancha Cheena (Sanjay Dutt) hangs his father to death. Following the death of his father, Vijay leaves for Mumbai with his pregnant mother, pledging to return to his native village later and bring his father's glory back.

In Mumbai, gang lord Rauf Lala (Rishi Kapoor) takes the 12-year-old Vijay under his wing. During his journey, Vijay makes and breaks many relationships.

Vijay only finds support is his best friend Kaali, (Priyanka Chopra), who stands by him through thick and thin. Fifteen years later, his hatred for Kancha takes him back to Mandawa where his life comes a full circle. Henceforth, begins Vijay's quest to seek revenge from his father's murderer.

The role of evil Kancha Cheena was originally played by Danny Denzongpa. But this time, Sanjay Dutt plays the villain.

Sanjay's wicked smile, puffed-up eyes and dreadful first look has attracted appreciation from all quarters for the actor. When Hrithik signed Agneepath, he was quite clear of not emulating Big B's portrayal of Vijay Dinanath Chauhan. He wanted to give the character his own twist.

Rishi Kapoor insisted on having a look test for his role as Rauf Lala. The 58-year-old is one of the villians in the remake of 1990's Agneepath and wears kohl (kajal) in his eyes, a karakul cap and kurta-pyjama to fit into the character.

Priyanka says her character is the soul of the film. She brings happiness and naughtiness in the film.

Another highlight of Agneepath is the item song Chikni Chameli, which features Katrina Kaif. The actress' fast, Maharashtrian dance moves have impressed one and all. According to composer Atul Gogavale, Katrina spent eight days in rehearsal before starting to shoot for the song.

The special screening of the film has found appreciation from film celebrities, but whether Agneepath will be able to break box-office records, remains to be seen.