SPECIAL 26 (PG, 143 mins) ***** Starring Akshay Kumar, Manoj Bajpai, Anupam Kher. Director: Neeraj Pandey

Billed as the sleeper hit for this year, Neeraj Pandey’s Special 26 is receiving critical acclaim from all quarters. Pandey, who made his debut with the compelling Wednesday in 2008, a film looking at state terrorism, continues with his unsympathetic and maverick style of filmmaking.

With an impressive assemble of cast and crew, Pandey has managed to create his own niche within the film industry thanks to his astonishing debut.

Set in the Eighties, Special 26 tells the story of a group of conmen that target the rich – mainly crooks who have robbed others in the past for their wealth.

Posing as officials, Kumar and his gang embark on a thrilling journey resulting in a chilling and unexpected climax.

First things first, Special 26 is not your average typical masala film associated with Bollywood cinema. Pandey has delivered an intelligent period thriller without overdosing on mindless violence often seen in Indian cinema. Brilliant narration helped by Bobby Singh’s first-rate cinematography makes Special 26 a thoroughly enjoyable entertainer.

Akshay Kumar surprises with an awe-inspiring performance, unlike what we have seen before, which will no doubt win him a new army of fans. Anupam Kher delivers one of his best performances, and Manoj Bajpai again proves his mettle as an actor of immense talent.

If you want to see an intelligent crime thriller, Special 26 ticks all the boxes!