User reviews

99 is targeted at youth and multiplex audience inspired by real life events of match fixing that happened in year 1999 that took cricket world by storm. The movie has the right script, good actors and the humor at right place, which is able to take the movie ahead especially with unconventional music and Cricket being involved. The story is about two small time goons – Sachin (Kunal Khemu) & Zaramud (Cyrus Broacha) who work for AGM (Mahesh Manjrekar), a known name in bookie world as they have to clear their long owed debt to him. The story gets candid as both Sachin and Zaramud are send to Delhi from Mumbai to bring Agm's money from Rahul (Boman Irani) who is obsessed with betting and is big time looser like Sachin & Zaramud. The trio is known to struck at 99, a step before they could make it big–time. The story moves forward as they get to know about JC (Vinod khanna), a match-fixer and the trio gets befriended seeing each others financial and sympathetic condition and agree to take a life changing bet that would clear off all their debts and make their dreams true.

MY RATING: 7/10

The film looks interesting from the outset, when the makers claim that they believe the incidents in film are real. And an interesting way of opening credits only adds to curiosity.

Film starts with a funny chase and kunal khemu starts to narrate the story. A story of 2 small time crooks and how they get into big time troubles. The film traverses a unique genre of comedy thriller. It keeps you at the edge of the seats, but at the same time makes sure that the edge never hurts, with enough humor spread all over.

The storyline is spread over 2 cities of Bombay and Delhi in the year 1999. The film uses a real life scandalous case as the backdrop. (Though it no suspense, still its best left untold what scandal they've used). Director has taken care of minute details to make the story set in year 1999, like mobile incoming was charged, Clinton's India visit, 20-20 cricket still being a wild idea and even the dollar exchange rates. Also the essence of 2 cities is intact. Watch out the scene when Cyrus and Kunal describe why they don't want to go to Delhi. It's simply hilarious.

Kunal Khemu is slowly coming to its own. Cyrus could have had a few more lines to say, though he is great in whatever he is doing. Soha Ali is under utilized. Vinod Khanna is neat and Boman Irani is in form as ever.

It's a refreshing break, both from some unimaginative comedies we've seen in recent past and the hiatus caused in release of Hindi films in cinemas.

Its sweet little comedy, thriller, romantic, fun film. Go refresh yourselves. Have some good time.

The first question I have for Krishna DK, Raj Nidimoru and Anupam Mittal after watching "99 (2009)" is: "Why did you starve us for 6 long years since your last epic "Flavors (2003)"?".

Like their previous work, "99" is pure brilliance with a tight plot, jokes that work and pop-culture references that make you go "A-ha!". In other words, a MUST WATCH. The packed house at PVR on a weekday late-night show is testimony to that.

Kunal Khemu is an under-rated actor in the mould of Abhay Deol. Luckily, the latter has found his groove with the last couple of releases. Kunal is still stuck at 99 (pun intended), despite excellent nuanced performances in some excellent but forgotten films like "SuperStar (2008)". He has an easy charm and superb comic timing. At the same time, his vulnerable eyes poke through your heart during the tragic scenes. I really hope he breaks the jinx of successful child actors (like Urmila Matondkar, probably the only success so far).

This movie also enjoys the acting talent of powerhouses like Boman Irani (who started in similar Indy films like "Let's Talk (2002)" but now needs no introduction), Mahesh Manjrekar, Amit Mistry (a bonafide superstar at Bombay's Prithvi Theatres) and Cyrus Broacha. All these guys have significant theatre experience and it shows in their comic timing, body language and diction. In smaller roles, the bhojpuri actor and the sidekick provide many laughs with their natural presence. Among the ladies, Soha and Simone are important to the plot but don't have any spectacular scenes where they get to shine.

So here is my second question to Krishna DK, Raj Nidimoru and Anupam Mittal: "Why didn't you repeat the ravishing and very funny Pooja Kumar from Flavors, in the role of (who else?) Pooja?". She'd be so purrrfect-- and a treat to watch.

The production is very well designed. The movie is set in 99-2000 and it almost feels as if that is when it was shot. Be it the film hoardings across the city (imagine "Kaho Na Pyar Hai (2000)" blocking the skyline, for chrissakes!), the mobile phone models they use, the cars they drive or their amazement at the advent of "cyber cafes"--- this could well be one of India's first period films (NOT about the Freedom Struggle)! If anything, that's one award it deserves for sure. The background score is also well used and adds to the tension/fun of the chase.

As for the story itself, this is a chase/heist movie in the genre of what Guy Ritchie does. The two losers are on the run from everyone, with their IOUs adding up faster than Sachin's centuries. Their misfortunes and bravado makes for some very comic situations, without resorting to any toilet humor (well, almost) or Priyadarshan style confusion-climax. The audience kept laughing and clapping all through. Especially loved were the Bombay versus Delhi references (the cities are known for their cultural rivalry and pride). The movie is peppered with cricket metaphors, delivered in Cyrus's inimitable style. Cricket forms an important part of the plot and it is made by true lovers of the game.

Even though it reminds you of many Hollywood films, it is not a copy but in their genre. This slight difference sets it apart from the 99% junk that Bollywood ends up celebrating annually with the likes of Anees Bazmee, Priyadarshan, David Dhawan and Hansal Mehta. So here's my third question for Krishna DK, Raj Nidimoru and Anupam Mittal: "Agli picture kab bana rahe ho?"

99 is a success! First time mainstream directors DK and Raj pull off with great intelligence this smart witty new age comedy. The movie engrosses you from the opening scene with a rip roaring chase that builds upon the background of this masterful story line. The plot takes on so many twists and turns that viewers will be kept guessing throughout the film.

The beauty of this story is that it weaves fiction into fact using the India's cricket scandals back in 1999 as the background scene. It is intelligent, smart, and entertaining.

The casting is superb with Boman Irani, Mahesh Manjrekar and Kuber Mistry. Boman Irani is perfect in his portrayal as an addicted gambler. It is easy for the viewer to feel the full plight and depth of his situation as he digs himself into deeper and deeper holes.

Kuber Mistry steels the comic scene of this movie with his hilarious antics. His dialogs are delivered with expert precision that it is hard to believe he is only acting the part. Expect to see this actor in many more movies to come.

Kunal Khemu and Cyrus Broacha, the heroes of the film, are pure fun and their characters get into a sticky situation from the start of the movie. Both draw the viewer in making you root for them to succeed in their plight in the end no matter what happens.

I do not want to ruin the ending of this movie, but be prepared for some surprises. Trust me, as strange as it sounds, they will have you rooting against Indian cricketers too.

99 is a solid film that should do well in the box office. It is definitely not a movie that should be missed. I rate it a thumbs up and give it 5/5.

"Chakka kisine Maara...Paisa kisine haara" -- haunts me even after a day of watching this super thriller...I could so well relate to Rahul -- the Hansie Cronje, if you will, of the movie -- A character you could only pity. Boman for me was the highlight of the movie.

Cricket is such an integral part of the movie that you have a 'reel' Sachin with a 'reel' Dravid (although a fatso) -- Keeps Sachin good company throughout the movie -- much like the Sachin, Dravid partnerships that we are accustomed to on the cricket field. Kunal is impressive and seems to have taken his acting to the next level from his previous movies. Cyrus evokes enough laughter to keep you engaged. Soha, as her role demands, was very suave and subdued.

Import-Export business king Kuber is another highlight -- his one-liners are bound to become popular in bollywood cinema in the years to come -- "Checking"..."Cut Again"..."Give Respect" etc..much like Vivek in Flavors, if you remember, -- "You Grow Up"...Accompanying him is "Dimple", taking me back to "Michael Madana Kama Rajan's" Kamal-Bheem combo.

Talking of one-liners, there's no dearth of those in the movie -- be it AMG leaving a 'message' after the 'beep' OR the wannabe in the hotel lobby threatening to buy the 5-star hotel or the popular theory about how cell phones would hurt your entire body, heck I even liked the dude on the street giving TV interview of what he saw of the culprits.

Another aspect of the movie was the subtlety with which certain things are shown -- be it the kids flaunting their bounty hunt on the road or Rahul's "oh!" at the fall of a wicket on a match he bet on, while in the Y2k meeting room -- the directors quality of letting small events tell a story of its own shows up as a highlight.

Although not having songs interrupt the story flow is a welcome change -- having listened to the music album, you almost wish that you see the full version of the songs play out..most people stay in the theater through the credits because of the "What's up" song...come to think of it...shouldn't't "Whats up"? song be the opening credit as a way of the débutant directors saying Hello to Bollywood? may be they are setting us up for a sequel, who knows...LoL..

Background score is slick and cocky and suits the mood..

This "99" is bound to cross Lara's 400 and become a "trend-setter" for future Bollywood generation.

A brave and an honest attempt. Its indeed a fresh concept which deserves to be applauded. Easy pitfall for the Gen-X for the film-makers to go overboard and end up with a product thats shares similarity to a text- book. In simple words it ends up being a GM fruit/ veggie. The director duo manage to retain the natural "flavour" to the proceedings.

Ө Kunal Khemu:: He was good in most parts and does need to polish his skills. The character was a bit "too posh" for his background.

Ө Cyrus:: Either his character was bad or Cyrus is a bad actor (owing to which his role got massacred on the editing table). Regardless, should have taken inspiration from Circuit.

Ө Soha:: As usual, nothing was expected out of her or the character. So its "status-quo". Neha-Pooja reference was good.

Ө Boman Irani:: Well can be safely said that the entire movie rests on him and he manages to bear the weight effortlessly. The name Rahul was a bit too modern for the character.

Ө Simone Singh:: The role could have been safely purged from the plot. There is nothing the character contributes to the storyline.

Ө Vinod Khanna:: Well, what can be said of Mr. Suave. He is suave in the role.

Ө Mahesh Manjrekar::Infuses life into the character owing to which manages to draw good laughs. And very authentic look indeed.

Ө Amit Mistry:: Make way for this fresh talent, he is surely to stay and give tough fight to Rajpal Yadav (similarity in size too!).

99 can also be classified as a period film as it attempts to recreate the 1999-2000 scene (mobile, betting, Clinton's visit & the out-of-the- box idea of Coffee shop). There are a few goofs which can be safely ignored.

Clearly evident is the inspiration from Pulp Fiction. Gentlemen the "rabbit-out-of-hat" is no doubt Tarantino'ism.

When the audience were practically dying of starvation owing to the multiplexes strike, wonder why "99" wasn't lapped up as manna from heaven. Beats me!

Bottomline:: This John Doe deserves more recognition.

Krishna DK, Sita Menon and Raj Nidimoru deserve a pat for writing and attempting something like '99' in Indian Cinema.

How interesting to think of, '99' takes you a decade back and makes you feel the year. Often we've seen people in Cinema, taking us to yesteryear's that have something to do with history, be it Independence, a moment of Violence, mostly something like that. But in '99', the 3 intelligent writers take us back when the Cricket World-Cup was going on.

Directors Krishna DK & Raj Nidimoru make it a point, that you remember the decade on celluloid with Pure Fun. '99' is a winner all the way... in all respects in wins your heart! The film was a decent success, and the following the film will achieve in the nearby future is nothing short of 'Cult'.

Expectations are limited; Entertainment, here is unlimited.

Performance-wise: Boman Irani & Mahesh Manjrekar steal the show. Boman, is fantastic as always. Manjrekar is simply superb; his one-liners are hilarious. Kunal Khemu suits his part to the T and delivers a confident performance. The plus point of the youngster, is that, he's natural all through, in all of his films. Soha Ali Khan is good. Cyrus Broacha is funny. Simone Singh is decent. Amit Mistry is another surprise packet; he's excellent and his broken English is hilarious to hear. Sudesh Berry is alright. Vinod Khanna needs no mentioning, the veteran is superb as ever.

on the whole '99' is smart, witty and really entertaining. A joyride! Thumbs Up!

99 is a success! First time main steam directors DK and Nidimoru pull off with great intelligence this smart witty new age comedy. The movie engrosses you from the opening scene with a rip roaring chase that builds upon the background of this masterful story line. The plot takes on so many twists and turns that viewers will be kept guessing throughout the film. The beauty of this story is that it weaves fiction into fact using the India's cricket scandals back in 1999 as the background scene. It is intelligent, smart, and entertaining.

The casting is superb with Boman Irani, Mahesh Majrekar and Kuber Mistry. Boman Irani is perfect in his portrayal as an addicted gambler. It is easy for the viewer to feel the full plight and depth of his situation as he digs himself into deeper and deeper holes. Kuber Mistry steels the comic scene of this movie with his hilarious antics. His dialogs are delivered with expert precision that it is hard to believe he is only acting the part. Expect to see this actor in many more movies to come. Kunal Khemu and Cyrus Broacha, the heroes of the film, are pure fun and their characters get into a sticky situation from the start of the movie. Both draw the viewer in making you root for them to succeed in their plight in the end no matter what happens. I do not want to ruin the ending of this movie, but be prepared for some surprises. Trust me, as strange as it sounds, they will have you rooting against Indian cricketers too.

99 is a solid film that should do well in the box office. It is definitely not a movie that should be missed. I rate it a thumbs up and give it 5/5.

Imagine I asked you to describe what your life was like a decade ago... Right, me neither - so instead, Imagine I asked you to make up a story of your life based on key events that happened to you 10 years ago but fill in the rest as you like... Now imagine how much harder it would be if I asked that the story you were creating also had to bridge to the current day events back then

It is a daunting task and one which the writers of 99 have done with flair and function. The script is whip-smart in the way it combines popular trends (cell phones, bhojpuri movies, the onset of cafes) of the time with the news making events (y2k, cricket match fixing) of the time to narrate a truly innovative story. All this while adding twists and turns to the main plot that will keep you buckled to your seat for the 2hr ride.

The casting was genius - Especially true of, Soha Ali Khan (as the girl next door that you want to take home to mom) Kunal Khemu (as 'NOT the bigger-than-thou hero who doesn't need your rooting for him to make a century'), Amit Mistry (as the lil guy with a big stick - aka dimple) and Boman Irani (as the most frustrating, gambler-husband-who-you-love-nevertheless ever).

Kunal is a natural born actor and in Amit, a star has just been born.

Why you will love it : Sharp dialogues, sharper delivery, excellent acting all round, awesome cinematography, fantastic music Why you might settle for liking it : The movie is in a genre that is new to Bollywood - "What, I don't have to be awed by the hero's machismo and the heroine's svelte body?", "What, the lead characters are the underdogs that I will want to root for, rather than supermen who drive Lamborghinis and live in palaces?", "what, I will hope that the hero escapes from the bad guy rather than making mincemeat of the villains face?".

The genre is called a 'crime caper' but 99, refuses to be boxed neatly into a category and insists on being a comedy-historical fiction-and-much-more

This movie wont change your life - don't expect to leave the movie inspired and moved. It will be more like you stepped off a roller coaster ride and you want to go back to the end of the line again.

Ladies, It would be like eating a perfectly whipped chocolate mousse - Enjoy!

"99" is the sort of film you might really like, but I struggled with it because I really didn't care about the characters. If you really think about it, they are selfish jerks---and I rarely care for films where I don't care at all about people. If you can get past this, I a sure you will enjoy "99" much more than I did.

The film begins with two total morons selling fake SIM cards for cell phones. In other words, they are stealing. But their business soon is discovered by the police and they are forced to run--and in the process they destroy a gangster's brand-new Mercedes! Unluckily for them, the gangster discovers them before the cops. But, instead of killing the pair, he forces them to work as enforcers--collecting debts for his bookmaking operation. I have no idea why, but this tough guy decides to send these two bumblers from Mumbai to Delhi (a very long distance) to collect a debt. However, being bumblers, along with one of the debtors, they decide to try to take the money owed to their boss and 'invest' it. Can they do this and return all the money and make everyone happy by the end of the film? Overall, this is a decent film and I liked the film's energy. It also had a story that was creative. But I just didn't care about the folks--whether they succeeded or got their heads blown off in the process. I just didn't care. Now this CAN be overcome by a great plot and great acting (such as in "The Godfather"), but here it just didn't work mostly because the filmmakers were trying to make you care about these folks.

For once bollywood delivers on what it promises. It's a very slick film that tells a pretty unique story in a refreshing style that is almost alien to Indian cinema. Every single aspect of the film is top notch. It has plenty of good humor with some very smart ideas that make the entire ride highly entertaining. I didn't have any expectations from the film, mainly because of the actors in the film but having watched the film, I have to agree that each and every one of the actors did a top notch performance. But above the all the screenplay and narration of the film is superb! Something you hardly ever get to see in Hindi films, ever. I think it's the debut of the director. Great job !

"99" (2009) is a delightful time capsule that whisks us back to the late '90s, capturing the spirit of the era with infectious charm. Directed by Raj Nidimoru and Krishna D. K., this Bollywood gem revolves around two best friends, Sachin (Kunal Khemu) and Zaramud (Cyrus Broacha), whose lives are intertwined with cricket betting during the 1999 World Cup.

The film brilliantly encapsulates the essence of the late '90s, from the chunky mobile phones to the baggy fashion trends. It immerses us in the world of Delhi, a city buzzing with energy and dreams, perfectly setting the stage for our protagonists' adventures.

Kunal Khemu and Cyrus Broacha steal the show with their impeccable comic timing and bromance. Khemu's portrayal of Sachin, a small-time hustler who reluctantly becomes a hero, is a standout. Broacha's wit and humor add layers of laughter to the narrative, making their friendship the film's beating heart.

The supporting cast is equally impressive. Boman Irani, as the eccentric bookie, adds depth to the story, while Soha Ali Khan shines as the mysterious Simone, infusing grace and charm into her character. Mahesh Manjrekar's AGM is a compelling blend of cunning and charisma, making him a formidable presence on screen.

The film's soundtrack is a treasure trove of '90s melodies, evoking waves of nostalgia. Tracks like "What's Up" and "Delhi Destiny" not only enhance the storytelling but also transport us back to a simpler time.

"99" is more than just a comedy; it's a heartfelt journey that makes you reminisce about the '90s when life revolved around friendships, cricket matches, and the thrill of uncertainty. It seamlessly blends humor, drama, and a touch of romance, creating an experience that appeals to both the heart and the funny bone.

In conclusion, "99" is a rollercoaster of emotions that leaves you with a warm, nostalgic glow. With its witty humor, charismatic performances, and a soundtrack that strikes a chord, this film is a nostalgic trip you won't want to miss. So, grab your popcorn and take a memorable journey with Sachin and Zaramud in "99" - it's a winner in every sense! 🎬🏏😄

Overview: 99 is an original story inspired by the real events of the match fixing scandal that rocked the cricketing world in the year of 1999-2000 involving Hansie Cronje. The movie really gives you a realistic feel of the year 1999-2000.

Was it any good?: I must appreciate the way director Krishna DK has made this movie. The narration is very different from other movies. It depicts the betting syndicates in a very maturish way. But I was a bit disappointed with the first half. It moves at a snails pace. Boman Irani is more interested in explaining the features of his and his wife's mobile phones. Kunal Khemu is busy describing his dream of setting up a coffee shop and what sort of things it will have etc. I mean, this ain't a fair deal to the viewers. They have come for entertainment and all they get is something that they have already experienced before. The real picture unfolds in the second half. Betting gets tough and exciting. Things start getting more and more sinister. If only they had made the first half more impressive, the whole movie would have been a serious blockbuster.

The actors gave out a reasonably good performance. Boman Irani & Vinod Khanna were impressive. Cyrus Broacha was OK. Kunal Khemu & Soha Ali Khan were good but not great. Many duologue's in the movie were dated.

Verdict: Watch it for a fresh new story line. If you can stand the first half, then are sure to get what you paid for in the second half.

When you have an original idea and the execution is professional and care is taken to give the audience something to laugh or ponder or get thrilled, you have a top notch entertainer. And 99 for me is one of the best this year and possibley in the last few years. And to add to this the cast hit bulls yes. Even though the cast is not attractive on paper because of the star crazy industry that we are unfortunately part of; once you see the film you will agree with me that the casting was perfect; and every cast person deliver what they were meant for.

OK to summarise 99 I will say it is a terrific thriller and an excellent comedy. And if you think about it this combination of thriller and comedy is rare and that is exactly why I think this is one of the best Hindi films I have seen. I recommend hundred percent! Thank you

This movie bring one of the greatest reality of Cricket in Inida - Betting with sense of humor.

This is one of the best comedy of year 2009. all character have played there part greatly. A 10/10.

Really vary few people have seen this movie, but truly this one is paisa wasool.

chemistry between Soha and Kunal working. Cyrus really need some more time to be comfortable with Camera. At times he feels uncomfortable. Kunal is improving. If you looking for good family entertainment this one is for you.

I was looking forward to watching this movie despite the fact that it wasn't even promoted due to the on going dispute and not knowing what this really was about. However, it is one of the better ones to be released this year but I wouldn't say that it was one of the best. A compulsive gambler borrows money from a gang but then four men are sent after him.

Starring Kunal Khemu, Soha Ali Khan, Boman Irani, Simone Singh, Vinod Khanna, Mahesh ManjrekarAmit Mistry, this is directed by Krishna D.K and Raj Nidomoru.

I was not disappointed with Boman Irani at all as he is his usual – good and is convincing as a gambler as are Amit Mistry, Mahesh Manjrekar and Kunal Khemu. But I was rather disappointed with Vinod Khanna and with Soha Ali Khan and felt that they weren't really in to it and that their characters could have been more meaningful and therefore have a lot more exposure of them in them film but it was not done and felt that their talent was wasted. Also, I felt that having such talented actors such as Boman Irani and Vinod Khanna in few scenes together, the directors could have made use of their talents and make their scenes a lot more explosive and then adding Soha Ali Khan, who has shown her talent in "Rang De Basanti" and "Khoya Khoya Chand,"it would have been more exciting to watch them along with Mahesh Manjrekar, who is also talented, Set against the background of real incident, the directors could have made use of that in a stronger manner as well and I felt that this would have made the film a bit more powerful and enjoyable instead of it being dragged in certain areas of the story, which though funny at times. But really the jokes could have been made more effective then they were.

However, it is not a complete dull movie as it does have some good points as well and it does make it, just about watchable.

99 is an intelligent movie using 1999 cricket scandal in India during India South Africa series.

The story told in an intelligent manner with good twist and turn in it which keeps you guessing all the time and you remain on the edge of the seat. And it is hard to find out weather it is facts or fiction, or say its a real fiction, whatever it was nice experience watching this modern day comedy intertwined with cricket issue.

All actors performance was good, Boman and Kunal steals the show Boman is excellent as an addicted gambler. Kunal shares good chemistry with Soha, All three were good.

Its a good movie a good weekend flick whose image keeps floating on your mind.

I never expected that the film will be such a great experience but film was great with great background score and great direction and acting the film is a must watch...

This film released in 2009, that's a decade back from today!

Boman Irani leading the way, this film is crisp, cheeky and out-and-out engaging. There's never a dull moment. It's no Oscar aspirant, it does what it's meant to do- entertain, without insulting your intelligence, but rather, teasing it the way. A very underrated comic thriller from Bollywood, don't miss 99, guys.