BollywoodReviews
Maidaan Movie Review Dhaval Roy, April 9, 2024, 1:57 AM IST critic s rating: 4.0/5 Story: The movie follows India’s greatest football coach, SA Rahim, and his decade-long lone journey in ushering in the sport s Golden Era.
Review: The sweat and blood on the turf during the Golden Era of Indian football (the 1950s and the 60s) earned the team the moniker Brazilians of Asia. Chuni Goswami, P K Banerjee, Peter Thangaraj, Tulsidas Balaram, Jarnail Singh, and Pradyut Barman brought home the gold at the 1951 and 1962 Asian Games and finished fourth at the Melbourne Olympics in 1956—the best-ever finish. While these were the legends on the field, Maidaan pays homage to Syed Abdul Rahim, who is hailed as the greatest football coach and manager India has seen.
In the final match between India and South Korea at the Asian Games 1962, Rahim (Ajay Devgn) motivates the footballers with a speech on the power of one. He says while there will be 11 players on the field, it will be ‘one’ team. The whole cast and crew of the film mirror the sentiment. Amit Ravindernath Sharma’s direction, Saiwyn Quadras s screenplay, Tushar Kanti Ray’s cinematography, and last but not least, AR Rahman’s soundtrack and background score make the movie as exciting as the FIFA finale matches. Sports directors of photography Fyodor Lyass, Tassaduq Hussain, and Christopher Reed deserve special mention for recreating the final match that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
The film immortalises not only the beleaguered behemoth that the Indian football team was but also Rahim as a tactician and a revolutionary coach. He believed in the nation’s potential as a football giant and built a world-class team, handpicking the best talents and harnessing their prowess. He did so while battling the politics in the football federation and an influential sports journalist, Roy Choudhary (Gajraj Rao), who was his biggest naysayer.
The narrative’s highlight is how succinctly it packs in so much about the era, the football team, and Rahim’s personal challenges without losing its grip on the storytelling. You will stay hooked, cheer, and be moved throughout the film.
Ajay Devgn shines as Rahim, becoming a larger-than-life figure despite a quiet, understated, dignified demeanour. Priyamani, as his wife Saira, is impressive in every scene. Gajraj Rao, as the devious journalist, hits it out of the park. The team of titans, including Chaitanya Sharma as PK Banerjee, Amartya Ray as Chuni Goswami, Davinder Singh (Jarnail Singh), Tejas Ravishankar (Peter Thangraj), Aryann Bhowmik (Neville D’souza), and other actors resemble the real-life legends to the hilt.
Maidaan is a must-watch on the big screen for the thrilling experience and outstanding storytelling. It truly emulates the dialogue in the movie, ‘Kismat haathon se nahi, paeron se likhi jaati hai,’ as the team puts its best foot forward with the stellar outing!
Crew Movie Review Renuka Vyavahare, March 29, 2024, 5:43 AM IST critic s rating: 3.5/5 Story: Circumstances lead three hustlers to a gold smuggling racket. It’s all fun and games until conscience comes calling.
Review: Girls gotta have some fun and Bollywood is finally listening.
Co-workers Geeta Sethi (Tabu), Jasmine Kohli (Kareena Kapoor Khan) and Divya Rana (Kriti Sanon) serve looks and then some hospitality to the passengers of Kohinoor airlines. The undisputed drama queens have their own battles to fight and lies to hide. Nothing unites employees more than their collective misery and that forges an unlikely bond between the three air hostesses. When they discover that their debt-ridden airline is on the verge of bankruptcy, the women are compelled to seek desperate measures for survival. Necessity is the mother of invention and sometimes, even crime.
Crew has a smooth take-off boasting of a terrific first half and a bumpy landing. The fast-paced comic thriller entertains at all times even when the climax gets too convenient, ditzy or far-fetched. The heist bit isn’t clever and doesn’t pretend to be clever either, which works. Humour stems from the characters’ unabashed, unapologetic approach to life without thinking it through. Their plans are as effective as Vasco Da Gama ki gun (of Andaz Apna Apna) and yet they exude the style and attitude of ramp models. The sheer obliviousness evokes laughter as you submit yourself to their world of ambition, fading vanity, and delusion.
Caught in a crossfire between needs, wants and morals, despite its frothy exterior, Crew has an interesting take on the upper middle class and their relationship with money, ethics and a dead-end job that enslaves them for life. ‘Adarshon se bill nahi bharte’, Geeta reminds herself.
Speaking of the ladies, Crew’s leading actresses are in their 30’s, 40’s and 50’s respectively and casting hasn’t looked this fun for an Indian all-female heist film in a long time. Beyond the organic age inclusivity, the story doesn’t digress from the ladies even with men as entertaining as Diljit Dosanjh and Kapil Sharma around. Kulbhushan Kharbanda also features in a special appearance and none of the male characters are inconsequential despite their brief screen time as seen in most chick flicks.
While all three bring their A game, Tabu and Kareena exude bonafide movie star energy to show how it’s done. Diljit was right when he said, ‘Hogi Rihanna, hogi Beyonce, sadi ta ae he hai, Kareena . Bebo oozes oomph and substance as a hustler who conceals her loneliness. Torn between responsibilities and desires, Tabu is terrific. The two are electrifying on screen with characters distinctly written for each. The two even crack age-related jokes that we are sure resonates with them. Kriti adds to the chutzpah and has great chemistry with Diljit but feels more like a third-wheeler. The latter makes a charming impression. He gives the film its best laugh out loud moment when he asks Kriti, Tumne mujhe instagram pe follow back kyu nahi kiya?
If you are looking for some light-hearted madcap comedy, Crew is worth diving into -- with all its frivolity, humour and glam.
Ae Watan Mere Watan Movie Review Abhishek Srivastava, March 21, 2024, 3:48 AM IST critic s rating: 3.0/5 Story: During the height of Mahatma Gandhi s Quit India movement, a young girl takes on the challenge of uniting freedom fighters by initiating an underground radio station to bridge the communication gap.
Review: Ae Watan Mere Watan sheds light on a lesser-known tale from India s struggle for independence, a narrative that played a significant role in altering the trajectory of India s quest for freedom following Mahatma Gandhi s Quit India movement. This biographical drama engages audiences with its portrayal of the era, boasting rich art direction that vividly captures the mood of the country during that period. However, at its core, it leans more towards being a thriller, focusing on the protagonist s endeavour to safeguard the underground radio station while evading capture by the British authorities. This premise promises several heart-pounding moments of thrill, yet the filmmakers fall short in fully capitalizing on this potential. Unfortunately, the film does not delve deeper into this thrilling aspect, leaving viewers longing for more exploration of its gripping elements.
The storyline of Ae Watan Mere Watan is rooted in a true account, revolving around the courageous actions of Usha Mehta (Sara Ali Khan), who, at a tender age, embraced celibacy and dedicated herself to India s struggle for independence. The film commences in 1930 Surat before transitioning to Mumbai in 1942, where Usha s father attains the status of a judge in British India. A scene where her father showcases the car gifted by the Britishers reflects Usha s evident disdain towards the British empire. Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi s ideologies, Usha and her circle of friends pledge to contribute to the freedom movement by aligning themselves with the Congress. Upon their association with the Congress, they realize the existence of a communication gap among the freedom fighters, recognizing its urgency in hastening India s liberation. With the assistance of Firdaus Engineer (Anand Tiwari), Usha establishes an underground radio station, bridging the divide among the freedom fighters. In her quest to aid India s independence, she receives support from the likes of Ram Manohar Lohia (Emraan Hashmi). Upon the British authorities discovery of their plan, a high-stakes game of cat and mouse ensues.
Sara Ali Khan s portrayal of Usha Mehta is sincere, but she barely scratches the surface. It s a challenging character, given its historical significance in the freedom struggle. There are several intense scenes, particularly those featuring Usha s interactions with Kaushik and her father, but none of them have turned out to be emotionally impactful. Sara s performance in the film appears restrained, preventing them from fully blossoming. John Lyre (Alexx O’Nell), portrayed as the antagonist, is tasked with apprehending Usha and shutting down the radio station. However, his perpetually grumpy demeanour doesn t add much depth to the character. Effective communication through body language and facial expressions is an art that not all actors are able to master. Two standout performances in the film come from Sparsh Srivastav as Fahad and Emraan Hashmi as Ram Manohar Lohia. Sparsh s intense portrayal is convincing, while Emraan Hashmi s portrayal of Ram Manohar Lohia adds to his already impressive versatility as an actor.
Ae Watan Mere Watan presents an engaging narrative, yet it falls short of reaching its full potential for thrill. The film evokes reminiscence of the recently streamed series All the Lights We Cannot See, starring Mark Ruffalo, Hugh Laurie, and Aria Mia Loberti. Had the film captured the same level of excitement as the series, the viewing experience would have been greatly enhanced. This historical drama stays true to its portrayal, avoiding extra frills, but it could have done more.
Ae Watan Mere Watan Movie Review Abhishek Srivastava, March 21, 2024, 3:48 AM IST critic s rating: 3.0/5 Story: During the height of Mahatma Gandhi s Quit India movement, a young girl takes on the challenge of uniting freedom fighters by initiating an underground radio station to bridge the communication gap.
Review: Ae Watan Mere Watan sheds light on a lesser-known tale from India s struggle for independence, a narrative that played a significant role in altering the trajectory of India s quest for freedom following Mahatma Gandhi s Quit India movement. This biographical drama engages audiences with its portrayal of the era, boasting rich art direction that vividly captures the mood of the country during that period. However, at its core, it leans more towards being a thriller, focusing on the protagonist s endeavour to safeguard the underground radio station while evading capture by the British authorities. This premise promises several heart-pounding moments of thrill, yet the filmmakers fall short in fully capitalizing on this potential. Unfortunately, the film does not delve deeper into this thrilling aspect, leaving viewers longing for more exploration of its gripping elements.
The storyline of Ae Watan Mere Watan is rooted in a true account, revolving around the courageous actions of Usha Mehta (Sara Ali Khan), who, at a tender age, embraced celibacy and dedicated herself to India s struggle for independence. The film commences in 1930 Surat before transitioning to Mumbai in 1942, where Usha s father attains the status of a judge in British India. A scene where her father showcases the car gifted by the Britishers reflects Usha s evident disdain towards the British empire. Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi s ideologies, Usha and her circle of friends pledge to contribute to the freedom movement by aligning themselves with the Congress. Upon their association with the Congress, they realize the existence of a communication gap among the freedom fighters, recognizing its urgency in hastening India s liberation. With the assistance of Firdaus Engineer (Anand Tiwari), Usha establishes an underground radio station, bridging the divide among the freedom fighters. In her quest to aid India s independence, she receives support from the likes of Ram Manohar Lohia (Emraan Hashmi). Upon the British authorities discovery of their plan, a high-stakes game of cat and mouse ensues.
Sara Ali Khan s portrayal of Usha Mehta is sincere, but she barely scratches the surface. It s a challenging character, given its historical significance in the freedom struggle. There are several intense scenes, particularly those featuring Usha s interactions with Kaushik and her father, but none of them have turned out to be emotionally impactful. Sara s performance in the film appears restrained, preventing them from fully blossoming. John Lyre (Alexx O’Nell), portrayed as the antagonist, is tasked with apprehending Usha and shutting down the radio station. However, his perpetually grumpy demeanour doesn t add much depth to the character. Effective communication through body language and facial expressions is an art that not all actors are able to master. Two standout performances in the film come from Sparsh Srivastav as Fahad and Emraan Hashmi as Ram Manohar Lohia. Sparsh s intense portrayal is convincing, while Emraan Hashmi s portrayal of Ram Manohar Lohia adds to his already impressive versatility as an actor.
Ae Watan Mere Watan presents an engaging narrative, yet it falls short of reaching its full potential for thrill. The film evokes reminiscence of the recently streamed series All the Lights We Cannot See, starring Mark Ruffalo, Hugh Laurie, and Aria Mia Loberti. Had the film captured the same level of excitement as the series, the viewing experience would have been greatly enhanced. This historical drama stays true to its portrayal, avoiding extra frills, but it could have done more.
Madgaon Express Movie Review Dhaval Roy, March 22, 2024, 12:58 PM IST critic s rating: 3.5/5 Madgaon Express Story: Three childhood friends fulfill their dream of going to Goa together. However, an exchanged travel bag has two warring mafia dons hot on their heels, taking their trip completely off-track.
Madgaon Express Review: Boys just wanna have fun and soak up the sun in Goa. It’s a dream Dhanush, aka Dodo (Divyenndu), Pratik ‘Pinku’ Garodia (Pratik Gandhi), and Ayush Gupta (Avinash Tiwari) have had since their school days. But parents and mishaps come in the way, and the trio ends up miles away from each other in Mumbai, Cape Town, and New York. More than 15 years later, the plan pans out, but things take an unexpected turn when the no-gooder Dodo plans the trip.
Actor Kunal Kemmu debuts as a writer and director with this laugh riot that will keep you giggling to guffawing throughout its 144 minutes. From the loser Dodo’s shenanigans with a fake life on social media to the triumvirate’s misadventures, the out-and-out entertainer dishes out side-splitting situations and hilarious one-liners.
The film’s highlights remain the clever dialogues (Itne participants hain, sirf humari maut ka lucky draw nikalna baaki hai!) delivered with impeccable timing by powerful performers. Even when a situation turns serious or dangerous, the actors find a way to infuse humour quickly and organically. Besides the performers, the credit for this goes to Kemmu’s grip on writing. The movie also gives a nod to other outings of its ilk — Dil Chahta Hai, Go Goa Gone, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, etc, without seeming too forced.
On the flip side, protagonists escaping mafioso isn t a novel premise. Typical of a slapstick comedy, Madgaon Express also has some over-the-top characters, such as the gun-toting and goggles-wearing mafia fisherwomen led by Kanchan Kombdi (Chhaya Kadam). The narrative loses pace and occasionally feels crammed with long-drawn tracks or jarring situations. Dodo sets up an elaborate social media presence to get his friends’ attention and a fight at a fish market where he and Pinku go dressed as fisherwomen adds to the film’s runtime.
The movie shines a well-deserved spotlight on Divyenndu. The actor exhibits impeccable comic timing and effortlessly pulls off the role of an incorrigible bluffer. Pratik Gandhi will crack you up every time he mistakenly sniffs cocaine and goes from being a wimpy mama’s boy to a ‘dus minute ka Rambo.’ Avinash Tiwari completes the rib-tickling trio as the sanest lad of the lot. Upendra Limaye as the don, Mendonza (who’s funnily called Mangola, Mandakini, Mandolin, etc.) keeps you entertained with his antics, and Chhaya Kadam delivers a good performance, too.
With its sharp dialogue and spot-on performances, Madgaon Express is a comedy worth watching. The mad ride will leave you laughing out loud!
Swatantra Veer Savarkar Movie Review Renuka Vyavahare, March 22, 2024, 2:01 PM IST critic s rating: 3.5/5 Story: Was Savarkar a devout patriot or a bomb golavala who incited violence? Accused and acquitted of multiple conspiracy theories which includes Gandhi’s assassination, the biopic takes a closer look at the fiery freedom fighter and his tumultuous life.
Review: Vinayak Damodar Savarkar aka Swatantrya Veer Savarkar has been a controversial figure in India’s freedom struggle, given his unequivocal allegiance to armed revolution, notwithstanding the consequences. The revolutionary endured years of torture in the cellular jail. He paid a hefty price for his ideology by being dragged in the centre of a political storm ever since.
Hailed by some for his bravery and humiliated by others for his mercy petitions to the British, the film makes him feel heard and seen. His formation of Hindutva’ prioritised country over religion, condemned casteism, social hierarchy, superstition, and inequality. One man s terrorist is another man s freedom fighter. One man s hero is another man s villain. Every truth has two sides. Randeep Hooda’s biopic on Savarkar, doesn’t flinch while speaking its truth, hoping to reinstate the dignity and respect, that the writer-freedom fighter was stripped off over the years.
Spanning decades, right from pre to post independence, the film understands the key events of Savarkar’s life without rushing through it. Contribution of his family in the freedom struggle, formation of secret society Abhinav Bharat, activities at India House, belief in the teachings and mindset of Bal Gangadhar Tilak, differences with Gandhi and absolute hatred for slavery, injustice, and oppression, this one’s all encompassing. Given the sheer magnitude of the story, this was a tough one to crack but first-time director, Randeep Hooda, who also plays the titular role makes this a compelling watch.
Tense, engaging and unsettling, the film does more than presenting a recap of historical events. It delves into the psyche, morals, and implications of it all. Nothing is surface level. Each frame has a story to tell. Barring one song that plays in the background in the second half, no time is wasted in music to get the patriot in you going. The dialogues get your blood pumping. The film is technically sound and transportive. It doesn’t exploit or glorify Savarkar’s ordeal at the Kaalapani (solitary confinement) but weaponises it. Some scenes stay with you like the interactions between Gandhi and Savarkar. The clash of ideologies never led to disrespect.
What sticks out as a sore thumb in an otherwise well-made film is the blatant vilification of the Indian National Congress and Gandhi as a minority and British sympathiser. The film doesn’t propagate violence though. It wants you to merely acknowledge the sacrifices of armed revolutionaries which are often overlooked because ‘ahimsa’ paved the way to freedom.
Interestingly, Hooda’s massive physical transformation is just the tip of the iceberg. He presents Savarkar as both heroic, and helpless, and someone who fought till the end despite the inhuman atrocities inflicted upon him. While Gandhi was hailed as a Mahatma, Savarkar was compelled to wonder if the himsa (violence) he supported for justice and Swatantrata (freedom) led to sarvanash (destruction) instead. This one’s a polarising but powerful biopic that attempts to vindicate Savarkar. It tells his side of the story.
Bastar: The Naxal Story Movie Review Abhishek Srivastava, March 15, 2024, 1:30 PM IST critic s rating: 3.0/5 Story: Drawing inspiration from actual events, this film delves into the Naxal menace in the state of Chhattisgarh, showcasing the extraordinary efforts of a single police officer who went above and beyond to quell the Naxal threat.
Review: With Bastar: The Naxal Story, director Sudipto Sen and producer Vipul Amrutlal Shah attempt to shed light on yet another societal issue. Following the box office success of The Kerala Story, their focus now shifts to the Naxal insurgency in Chhattisgarh. While Bastar engages audiences for much of its duration, a deeper exploration of the political landscape could have enhanced the narrative, and made this a finer watch. Drawing inspiration from real-life incidents and characters, the film injects a fictional essence into its portrayal. Despite a screenplay that lacks strength, Sen compensates with his skilful depiction of events, but be forewarned that there are moments in the film that may be difficult to watch.
The focal point of the story is Neerja Madhavan (Adah Sharma), a no-nonsense IPS officer holding a senior CRPF position tasked with quashing the Naxal insurgency. The film begins in a courtroom where government and Naxal representatives are engaged in a legal battle. Neerja employs Special Police Officers (SPOs) and the state-run militia, Salwa Judum, to curb Naxal influence in Chhattisgarh. Running parallel to this is the story of Ratna (Indira Tiwari), a tribal woman whose husband was gruesomely killed by Lanka Reddy (Vijay Krishna), a notorious Naxalite. Seeking retribution, Ratna enrols and trains to become a Special Police Officer and aids Neerja in her mission.
The film incorporates characters based on real individuals, although with altered names, leading to a guessing game for viewers familiar with the actual events. The film’s realistic tone is complemented by fitting locations. Throughout the film, its gritty atmosphere keeps audiences on the edge, particularly in scenes where the influential elite offer their support to the Naxalites. A significant oversight lies in the absence of depicting Delhi and Raipur as central control hubs. In a narrative of this nature, delving into the behind-the-scenes operations of these centres becomes crucial. While the film touches on these elements, it merely scratches the surface. Additionally, while the film is well-shot, the loud background music serves as a distraction.
Once again, Adah Sharma shines in a commanding role, reminiscent of her impressive performance in The Kerala Story. Portraying an uncompromising police officer, she delivers a sincere portrayal, unafraid to speak her mind even in the presence of politicians. Indira Tiwari, embodying a tribal woman, delivers a heartfelt performance that resonates deeply. Vijay Krishna s portrayal of Lanka Reddy, adeptly switching between English and Hindi, exudes menace, while Raima Sen, Shilpa Shukla, and Yashpal Sharma fit their respective roles perfectly. Bastar is a hard-hitting crime drama, with moments that surely shake you.
Yodha Movie Review Archika Khurana, March 15, 2024, 2:30 PM IST critic s rating: 3.0/5 Yodha story: Special task soldier Arun Katyal (Sidharth Malhotra) is suspended after he fails an important mission. In a shocking twist, he is seen on board a hijacked flight under mysterious circumstances. Is he a traitor or a patriot? That is where the suspense lies.
Yodha review: Debutant directors Sagar Ambre and Pushkar Ojha s film offers an adrenaline-fueled ride through the skies. The setup is slow and bumpy, but once the plane is hijacked, the tension mounts quickly. Despite a predictable storyline, the movie has a fair amount of exciting moments and twists and turns to keep you engaged. And Sidharth Malhotra expertly navigates the highs and lows of a determined soldier caught in the crossfires of duty and suspicion.
The story unfolds with Arun Katyal, a proud son determined to carry on the legacy of his father s (Ronit Roy) special task force, Yodha. However, after failing at a critical mission, he is on board a hijacked flight under mysterious circumstances. All evidence points to him being on a revenge mission against the system that has taken everything from him. Is Arun a ‘desh ka dushman,’ or the patriot like his father was? It all unravels in an action-packed thriller at 15,000 feet above the ground.
Sagar Ambre s screenplay keeps viewers engrossed, drawing them into the tense atmosphere of the aircraft, where the majority of the action unfolds. While the mid-air stunts are thrilling, the film suffers from predictability and clichéd plot twists, lacking depth in exploring themes of courage and patriotism.
However, the film is well-edited, so it stays the course and never feels stretched. There is also subtle humour peppered through the narrative. There are some heavy-duty dialogues like “Main rahu na rahu, desh rahega, but the lighter moments in the screenplay balance that out.
The music is average, barring Ammy Virk and B Praak s reprised version ‘Qismat Badal Di.’ The background score blends well with the genre.
After the reel-life portrayal of the war hero Vikram Batra in Shershaah, Sidharth returns as commando Arun Katyal in Yodha, showcasing his competence as an action hero. The movie majorly rests on his shoulders. Raashii Khanna pulls off the part of playing Arun s love interest with ease. Disha Patani plays a pivotal role as an air hostess caught amid the hostage drama. Tanuj Virwani, another commando of the special task force, makes his presence felt in his limited role. Sunny Hinduja pulls off his role with confidence.
All said, Yodha’s action is thrilling, but it does not really take your imagination to the flight.
Murder Mubarak Movie Review Ronak Kotecha, March 15, 2024, 4:00 PM IST critic s rating: 3.5/5 Story: A murder at a posh club in Delhi pins the needle of suspicion on its affluent guests. As the police start probing deeper, they realise it’s a maze full of greed, vanity and complex human relationships.
Review: Welcome to The Royal Delhi Club known for its high profile guests, lavish parties and unmatched hospitality. It s a club founded by the Angrez but now frequented by those who continue to perpetuate the classist, discriminatory, and racially-charged behaviors reminiscent of pre-independence society. A cold-blooded murder takes place within the club and all hell breaks loose when ACP Bhavani Singh (Pankaj Tripathi) takes charge with his casual approach to unravel each and every facet of this murder most foul. He goes about grilling each and every guest for whom the club is a lavish escapade from their mundane life outside.
What really works in favour of Murder Mubarak’ is its unpredictability. Director Homi Adajania and his team of writers (Anuja Chauhan, Gazal Dhaliwal, Suprotim Sengupta) throw every possible twist to confuse the audience and they succeed for most part. From the motives of these flawed individuals to dropping subtle hints, Adajania ensures the suspense remains tightly guarded for long. While it also reeks of desperation with just so many characters, Adajania and his writers somehow manage to do justice to each one, by giving them enough screen time and quirks. The character introduction at the start and the way the screenplay moves forward is entertaining. It keeps you invested.
Modeled after Agatha Christie s Hercules Poirot, Pankaj Tripathi s character leads this slightly uneven whodunnit in his trademark style. The actor tries hard to differentiate his character from what he has done before but it is still slightly repetitive. At times, it s frustrating to see him be so calm and casual with a bunch of obnoxious and snooty uptowners with too much love for a club. Sara Ali Khan looks gorgeous and fits well into her character of a goofy yet beautiful young woman Bambi Todi. Her chemistry with Vijay Varma seems somewhat forced. Varma himself doesn t have much to work with for his own character Aakash Dogra, who can t be figured out. Karisma Kapoor makes a decent comeback as a has-been B-grade actress Shehnaz Noorani and stands out amongst a cacophony of loud and goofy characters. Tisca Chopra overdoes it as the offensive upper class Delhite Roshni Batra. Dimple Kapadia as a colourful rich woman Cookie Katoch is good but Sanjay Kapoor as the cheapskate royal Hukum Rannvijay Singh is a hoot. He is hands down the most entertaining amongst all. While the abundance of characters threatens to overwhelm the main plotline, Adajania adeptly balances each one, ensuring they receive adequate screentime and development. Despite just a handful of songs, the film is longer than desired.
Overall, ‘Murder Mubarak’ is an engaging whodunit with broad appeal. The film effectively sustains its suspenseful atmosphere, keeping us hooked as they unravel the mystery behind a cold-blooded murder. While the investigation may not be flawlessly executed, the film delivers on its promise to keep audiences guessing until the very end.
Alpha Beta Gamma Movie Review Abhishek Srivastava, March 8, 2024, 6:30 PM IST critic s rating: 3.5/5 Story: Following the Covid-19 pandemic, a woman, her estranged husband, and her soon-to-be-husband discover themselves confined in an apartment, sealed off for a 14-day quarantine period.
Review: Alpha Beta Gamma explores an innovative theme set during the Covid-19 pandemic, where a woman, her estranged husband, and her soon-to-be-husband are confined in an apartment for 14 days. This premise offers immense creative possibilities for both the writer and the filmmaker and, fortunately, the film succeeds for the most part and remains engaging throughout. While labelled as a comedy, the humour in the film tends to be more situational than intentional. Though, with some additional effort to develop the male characters, the film could have been even more enjoyable.
The film opens as Chiranjeev (Amit Kumar Vashishth) makes the difficult decision to separate from his wife, Mitali (Reena Agarwal), despite her pleas to salvage their relationship. Fast forward two years, and we find them leading separate lives while maintaining a friendship. Mitali has found love with Raviraj (Nishan Nanaiah), whom she plans to marry, while Chiranjeev is focused on his upcoming film project. When Mitali requests a divorce to pursue her future with Raviraj, Chiranjeev, sensing the urgency, decides to visit her. His visit takes an unexpected turn when he encounters Mitali s lover at her home and learns of a 14-day lockdown due to the Covid pandemic. What ensues for the three characters is a journey fraught with bitter truths and revelations.
Director Srikumar Shankar infuses the film with a modern and contemporary vibe, crafting situations that feel plausible within a couple s dynamic. The dialogues ring true and relatable, adding authenticity to the narrative. Shankar introduces a fresh twist to the classic theme of triangular relationships, relying heavily on how characters respond to various situations. He manages to keep viewers engaged, navigating the complexities adeptly. However, the film falters in characterising its male leads. Chiranjeev, despite the separation, remains unchanged from his married self, lacking maturity and growth. Similarly, Raviraj s portrayal lacks the expected bouts of anger and resentment toward Chiranjeev, making him seem too rational in matters of love, existing almost in a utopian state. These character discrepancies question their authenticity and depth.
The gradual onset of envy within Chiranjeev s character following Raviraj and Mitali s decision to be together, along with the bouts of jealousy that consume him, feels authentic. Similarly, the scenes where Chiranjeev attempts to steal moments to converse with Mitali after Raviraj becomes drunk are executed effectively. The theatrical tone present in the opening scene, where Mitali attempts to convince Chiranjeev to stay in the relationship, falls flat, but fortunately, the rest of the film isn t affected by this flaw.
Reena Agarwal delivers a poised performance as Mitali, commanding the spotlight with her controlled portrayal. Amit Kumar Vashishth captures the essence of Chiranjeev with confidence, portraying myriad shades within the character. While Nishan Nanaiah s performance is commendable, a touch of added energy would have enhanced his portrayal. Alpha Beta Gamma stands as an indie film that thankfully doesn t challenge its audience excessively, making it an interesting watch.
Shaitaan Movie Review Dhaval Roy, March 8, 2024, 12:30 PM IST critic s rating: 3.5/5 Story: When a family lets a stranger into their farmhouse, the man mysteriously controls the teenage daughter. She does every bizarre and life-threatening thing he commands her to. What dark secret does the stranger possess, and can this desperate family escape his twisted game?
Review: A good supernatural thriller typically relies on elements of horror and suspense to keep the viewer hooked. Even if it skimps on jump scares but provides an unsettling experience, it’s a job well done. In that sense, director Vikas Bahl has got it right with Shaitaan.
The movie introduces one to Kabir’s (Ajay Devgn) happy family, which includes his wife Jyoti (Jyotika), teenage daughter Jahnavi (Janki Bodiwala), and nerdy son Dhruv (Anngad Raaj). The film quickly builds a sense of unease, as a stranger, Vanraj Kashyap (R Madhavan), enters their lives. He mysteriously gains complete control of Jahnavi, so much so that she obeys every command he gives. Unease soon turns to dread as Vanraj’s orders become increasingly awful and dangerous to Jahnavi herself and her family members. The rest of the story unravels the mystery behind what makes Vanraj powerful, his motive, and if the family will escape his torment.
Shaitaan’s appeal lies in the atmosphere it creates, especially without the use of CGI. It mostly hinges on the antagonist’s sinister intentions and games, which leave you with an unsettling feeling. Written by Aamir Keeyan Khan and Krishnadev Yagnik, the film sidesteps usual horror tropes. But it does touch upon the ageold supernatural versus science debate and human crudity that makes the species as basic as malevolent forces.
The narrative maintains a good pace and the treatment makes the movie gripping for the most part, although things gets a tad monotonous in the second half. Albeit not too suspenseful, the buildup is unnerving. The story has some unconvincing elements, and one scene gives away a pivotal plot point, which makes the climax predictable. Cinematographer Sudhakar Reddy Yakkanti excels in creating an atmosphere of dread and darkness, further enhanced by Amit Trivedi’s music.
Madhavan is outstanding as the malevolent figure and pulls off every sinister deed perfectly. Ajay Devgn delivers a powerful performance as a helpless but determined father. Jyotika stands her might, too. Janki Bodiwala deserves to be lauded for her pitch-perfect performance as the young girl under a devious spell. She laughs, cries, dances, and attacks on cue in immediate succession perfectly. Anngad Raaj as the son performs well, too.
Even though Shaitaan’s narrative stumbles at times, the masterful use of atmosphere and top-notch acting elevate it into an unsettling experience worth having.
Laapataa Ladies Movie Review Renuka Vyavahare, February 28, 2024, 6:30 AM IST critic s rating: 4.0/5 Story: Trouble ensues when two young brides Phool Kumari (Nitanshi Goel) and Pushpa (Pratibha Ratna) get accidentally swapped during a train journey. Phool’s hapless husband Deepak Kumar (Sparsh Shrivastav) seeks help from a corrupt cop Shyam Manohar (Ravi Kishan), adding to the chaos.
Review: Kiran Rao’s directorial debut ‘Dhobi Ghat’ was a haunting, almost voyeuristic portrait of shattered hope, and dreams in Mumbai. Set in rural India, Laapataa Ladies, a sharp satire, is her return to direction after 14 years and the dramedy stuns you with its clever social commentary and heartfelt sisterhood.
Laced with delightful moments, the messaging isn t overbearing. It never overshadows the entertainment quotient as Rao masterfully uses humour and veiled identity (ghunghat) to reflect upon deep-seated patriarchy and its repercussions. Her light-hearted, slice-of-life storytelling makes a solid case for women empowerment, education, and equality without disparaging men or succumbing to prejudice. “Dowry nahi liya toh ladke mein khot hogi”, comments a female character mocking a liberal man.
Family friendly and acutely observed, Biplab Goswami and Sneha Desai’s story and script provide food for thought. Every character is flawed but likeable, especially the corrupt but conscientious Shyam Manohar. Ravi Kishan is outstanding in his portrayal of a man, who is both greedy and just. The lead new faces do a commendable job, too.
The film’s most memorable scene sums up the movie’s intent perfectly. Hardened by life, a middle-aged tea stall owner Manju (an impeccable Chhaya Kadam who sort of replays her Sairat character) chooses to live alone instead of tolerating disrespect and domestic violence. She tells Phool, “If those who love you have a right to hit you, I exercised my right, too. (mic drop! No Animal was harmed in the making of this one liner).”
A girl is never smart, she is over smart. A woman is not clever, she is cunning. Laapataa Ladies tramples these age-old narratives by stating loud and clear, “A ‘respectable’ girl is the biggest fraud in society’, as it conditions her to not question the status quo. The story doesn’t allow women to play the victim card either. It sternly says, “It’s not shameful to be a fool but being proud of one’s ignorance is a shame.”
A delectable blend of heart, mind, and humour, this one’s an absolute winner.
Crakk Movie Review Dhaval Roy, February 23, 2024, 12:38 PM IST critic s rating: 2.5/5 Story: An adrenaline junkie journeys from Mumbai s streets to the extreme sports arena in Poland, fueled by a dream: win the championship and honour his late brother. His path is riddled with danger, a ruthless rival, and a secret threatening to turn the competition deadly.
Review: Opening with Siddharth ‘Siddhu’ Dixit (Vidyut Jammwal) performing electrifying but dangerous stunts on a moving local train in Mumbai, Crakk throws you into a world of high-octane action. As you hope no youngster is inspired to attempt such derring-do, the sequence sets you up for an edge-of-the-seat ride. Initially, director-writer Aditya Datt delivers that, as Krakow, Poland, becomes the backdrop for Siddhu s journey, where he navigates the treacherous extreme sports arena, Maidaan, not just to win but also honour his brother Nihaal’s (Ankit Mohan) memory.
While the film delivers visually stunning action sequences, Datt, Rehan Khan, and Sarim Momin s story and screenplay lack depth. Siddhu s underdog journey, romance with a social media influencer, Alia (Nora Fatehi), predictable clashes with the villain Dev (Arjun Rampal), and camaraderie between the contestants follow a familiar script. Even a subplot involving a cop, Patricia (Amy Jackson), chasing after plutonium smuggling feels like an unnecessary detour.
Despite the narrative shortcomings, Crakk shines in its action choreography (by Kerry Gregg) and cinematography (by Mark Hamilton). From gritty Mumbai streets to Mad Max-inspired landscapes, the visuals are captivating. The film also excels in showcasing daredevil moves, making you gasp and hold your breath. Daredevils evading swinging wrecking balls, escaping deadly hounds, etc., are captured well. However, the constant barrage of stunts can feel overwhelming, overshadowing the plot.
Vidyut Jammwal is in top shape and form as an action hero. He owns the pulse-pounding sequences and Mumbai slang, though he may not pass off as a lower-middle-class guy convincingly. Arjun Rampal brings menace to the villainous Dev and gets enough opportunity to show off his brawn and stunts. Nora Fatehi is passable in her limited role, though she has a few action sequences that she performs well. Ankit Mohan looks good and stands his might in the action department. Amy Jackson delivers a serviceable performance.
Crakk: Jeetagaa Toh Jiyegaa delivers on the thrilling action front, offering a refreshing glimpse into the world of extreme sports on the big screen. However, its reliance on predictable tropes and a somewhat underwhelming storyline might leave you wanting more.
Article 370 Movie Review Abhishek Srivastava, February 23, 2024, 2:24 AM IST critic s rating: 3.5/5 Article 370 story: Zooni Haksar, an Intelligence Field Officer, is recruited by the PMO Secretary for a classified assignment aimed at dismantling the conflict economy and combating terrorism in the Kashmir valley, just before the implementation of the abrogation of Article 370.
Article 370 review: Despite its lengthy runtime of over two and a half hours, ‘Article 370’ remains engaging for the most part. This drama, inspired by real events yet embellished with creative liberties, underscores the necessity of abolishing Article 370, which granted special status to Jammu & Kashmir. The film asserts that the current government s decision to revoke the article was justified. In its portrayal, the filmmakers strongly emphasize that the suffering of Kashmiri residents stemmed from the collusion between corrupt local leaders and militants. The first half is tense and skilfully sets the stage for the plot. However, the intensity somewhat tapers down in the climax, which leans towards overly dramatic cinematic tactics rather than realism.
The film s storyline follows Zooni Haksar (Yami Gautam Dhar), an intelligence field officer, who is relocated to Delhi following a ‘botched’ encounter despite its success, as deemed by his superior. As the government moves to abrogate Article 370, PMO Secretary Rajeshwari Swaminathan (Priyamani) shoulders much of the groundwork. She assembles her team and appoints Zooni to spearhead the NIA operation in Kashmir. The journey to preserve peace and unity in the valley navigates through the obstacles posed by corrupt local leaders and militants.
It s heartening to witness two actresses commanding the spotlight and carrying the entire film with their performances. Yami Gautam, portraying Zooni, delivers a commendable performance with her no-nonsense demeanour, showcasing the evident dedication and reaping deserving rewards. Priyamani, portraying an IAS officer, embodies the role convincingly with a controlled performance that hits the mark. Raj Zutshi, portraying a Kashmiri leader and thrice former Chief Minister of J&K, along with Raj Arun as Khawar Ali and Vaibhav Tatwawadi as Commandant Yash Chauhan, offer dynamic support to the ensemble cast.
‘Article 370’ attempts to evoke a sense of nationalism, taking creative liberties along the way. One fails to comprehend the necessity for Zooni to resort to impersonation to access amended documents from the J&K Secretariat, as accessing those documents could have been a straightforward job for her. Nonetheless, this film marks a promising debut from director Aditya Suhas Jambhale, a two-time National Award-winning director, hinting that a lot can be expected from him in the future. ‘Article 370’ proves to be a worthwhile watch, offering enough substance to keep viewers engaged and invested.
Kuch Khattaa Ho Jaay Movie Review Dhaval Roy, February 16, 2024, 4:02 PM IST critic s rating: 2.5/5 Kuch Khattaa Ho Jaay story: A young couple ties the knot to escape familial pressure. As the girl aspires to be an IAS officer, her husband pledges to support her in every way. However, a misunderstanding makes the family believe she’s pregnant, and confusion ensues.
Kuch Khattaa Ho Jaay review: The film primarily revolves around three characters. Ira Mishra (Saiee Manjrekar), a bright, aspiring IAS officer, a happy-go-lucky Heer Chawla (Guru Randhawa), and his grandfather Brij Bhushan Chawla (Anupam Kher), whose only dream is to become a great-grandfather. The young couple is pressured to marry and take the family line forward. The duo comes up with a perfect plan — faking a pregnancy so that Ira is relieved of household duties to focus on preparing for her exams. The story then moves to a fake miscarriage after an accident, Ira’s inability to conceive again, and what it means for the couple and the family.
A big haveli with quirky and loud family members, outlandish situations, and over-the-top drama make director G Ashok’s comedy-drama formulaic in both content and characters. Written by Raj Saluja, Niket Pandey, Vijay Pal Singh and Shobhit Sinha, the narrative is peppered with slapstick humour, primarily through puns and funny one-liners such as “Stent lagane ki umr mein stunts kar rahe ho.” Some scenes with entendre, like the drunken men of the family mistaking an artificial baby belly for an adult diaper, appear more farcical than funny. Many tracks offering solutions to absurd situations seem forced and too convenient, making the narrative unconvincing.
The story is set in Agra, giving the cinematographers Jayesh Sen and R M Swamy an opportunity to show their prowess. From Fatehpur Sikri to the sunset at the Taj Mahal, the duo captures the city’s beauty well, along with some wonderfully shot songs. Guru Randhawa, Sachet-Parampara, Meet Bros, Nilesh Ahuja, and Sadhu Sushil Tiwari deliver an eclectic soundtrack with club bangers like Ishare Tere and romantic numbers Jeena Sikhaya.
While Saiee Manjrekar delivers a serviceable performance, Guru Randhawa is likable as a young and goofy guy. The duo has a breezy on-screen chemistry. Although the Punjabi singer is passable in light comedy, he is green behind the ears in emotional scenes. Anupam Kher as a loving and full-of-life grandfather and Ila Arun as a loud and motherly chachi play their parts well. Paritosh Tripathi as a snarky adopted son ably adds to the outrageous comedy. Senior South Indian actor Brahmanandam also makes an appearance as a mafia don and pulls off his role with the slapstick panache he is renowned for.
During its 125-minute runtime, Kuchh Khatta Ho Jaay provides enough comedy and funny one-liners. However, the main plot and bizarre events leave much to be desired.
Kuch Khattaa Ho Jaay Movie Review Dhaval Roy, February 16, 2024, 4:02 PM IST critic s rating: 2.5/5 Kuch Khattaa Ho Jaay story: A young couple ties the knot to escape familial pressure. As the girl aspires to be an IAS officer, her husband pledges to support her in every way. However, a misunderstanding makes the family believe she’s pregnant, and confusion ensues.
Kuch Khattaa Ho Jaay review: The film primarily revolves around three characters. Ira Mishra (Saiee Manjrekar), a bright, aspiring IAS officer, a happy-go-lucky Heer Chawla (Guru Randhawa), and his grandfather Brij Bhushan Chawla (Anupam Kher), whose only dream is to become a great-grandfather. The young couple is pressured to marry and take the family line forward. The duo comes up with a perfect plan — faking a pregnancy so that Ira is relieved of household duties to focus on preparing for her exams. The story then moves to a fake miscarriage after an accident, Ira’s inability to conceive again, and what it means for the couple and the family.
A big haveli with quirky and loud family members, outlandish situations, and over-the-top drama make director G Ashok’s comedy-drama formulaic in both content and characters. Written by Raj Saluja, Niket Pandey, Vijay Pal Singh and Shobhit Sinha, the narrative is peppered with slapstick humour, primarily through puns and funny one-liners such as “Stent lagane ki umr mein stunts kar rahe ho.” Some scenes with entendre, like the drunken men of the family mistaking an artificial baby belly for an adult diaper, appear more farcical than funny. Many tracks offering solutions to absurd situations seem forced and too convenient, making the narrative unconvincing.
The story is set in Agra, giving the cinematographers Jayesh Sen and R M Swamy an opportunity to show their prowess. From Fatehpur Sikri to the sunset at the Taj Mahal, the duo captures the city’s beauty well, along with some wonderfully shot songs. Guru Randhawa, Sachet-Parampara, Meet Bros, Nilesh Ahuja, and Sadhu Sushil Tiwari deliver an eclectic soundtrack with club bangers like Ishare Tere and romantic numbers Jeena Sikhaya.
While Saiee Manjrekar delivers a serviceable performance, Guru Randhawa is likable as a young and goofy guy. The duo has a breezy on-screen chemistry. Although the Punjabi singer is passable in light comedy, he is green behind the ears in emotional scenes. Anupam Kher as a loving and full-of-life grandfather and Ila Arun as a loud and motherly chachi play their parts well. Paritosh Tripathi as a snarky adopted son ably adds to the outrageous comedy. Senior South Indian actor Brahmanandam also makes an appearance as a mafia don and pulls off his role with the slapstick panache he is renowned for.
During its 125-minute runtime, Kuchh Khatta Ho Jaay provides enough comedy and funny one-liners. However, the main plot and bizarre events leave much to be desired.
Bhakshak Movie Review Renuka Vyavahare, February 9, 2024, 4:02 PM IST critic s rating: 2.5/5 Story: An independent TV reporter Vaishali Singh (Bhumi Pednekar) and her only colleague Bhaskar (Sanjay Mishra) stir up a hornet’s nest. In pursuit of truth, these small-town journalists strive to expose a human trafficking racket in Bihar.
Review: The two member media house hopes to rescue minor orphan girls from an abusive shelter home in Munawwarpur, Bihar, owned by the powerful Bansi Sahu (Aditya Srivastava). However, the state’s law and order are drenched in corruption, rendering the police helpless. Can two ordinary people withstand political intimidation, threats, and societal pressure that compel us to mind our business in order to stay safe?
Even as the rich and powerful are busy toeing the line, director Pulkit hopes to celebrate the unsung warriors of smaller towns. They might exude a certain naivete, but they dare to speak truth to power. He addresses growing apathy in a shrinking social media world.
The subject is important and the lead performance sincere, but execution has a 90’s melodramatic hangover. Everyone mouths Bansi Sahu’s name at least 100 times in the movie and he doesn’t seem as menacing or influential as he is made to look like. Strangely, everyone has access to him at all times. The investigative-crime thriller lacks both investigation and thrill, making the film more exhausting and less gripping. The storytelling lacks a sense of urgency or even fear that are essential to make a hard-hitting issue like this deeply engaging. At no point are you emotionally invested in the characters or their trauma. Vaishali s supportive husband too doesn t get enough scope to express his inhibitions.
At one point a lady supercop tells Vaishali, “My hands are tied. You get me the evidence and I will make arrests.” Cops are also supposed to gather evidence and journos are supposed to inform and alert society through their responsible reportage. Passing the buck solely on journos doesn’t work, as freedom of press is stifled, nor do they have the power of uniform.
Bhumi Pednekar has emerged as one of the most bankable performers, who has consistently portrayed strong female characters. The Marathi girl from Mumbai has her north Indian accent on point and it is her fearless presence that fights patriarchy in the movie more than the writing. Sanjay Mishra feels wasted and CID fame Aditya Srivastava isn’t as convincing as the evil antagonist. Sai Tamhankar makes a crucial special appearance, but her character lacks nuanced writing.
Bhakshak’s fight for justice feels long-winded and simplistic. You feel for the plight of the girls trapped but the film does little to embolden that fire in your belly.
Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya Movie Review Dhaval Roy, February 9, 2024, 1:30 PM IST critic s rating: 3.0/5 Teri Baaton Mein Aise Uljha Jiya story: A robotics engineer unknowingly becomes part of a project to test a human-like female robot. Things take a twist when he falls in love with her and can t get her off his mind. Can man and machine form a bond of partnership and marriage? The film takes you into that zone with laughs and surprises.
Teri Baaton Mein Aise Uljha Jiya review: The hot topic lately has been whether artificial intelligence (AI) matches human intelligence and if it will eventually steal our jobs. Writer-director duo Amit Joshi and Aradhana Sah s romantic comedy explores how close to reality a romance with a robot can be and whether any of this is real.
A robotics engineer, Aryan Agnihotri (Shahid Kapoor), goes to the US to work on a new project for his maasi and boss, Urmila (Dimple Kapadia). There, he is looked after by her manager, Sifra (Kriti Sanon), the robot programmed to make him fall in love with her. And he does. But when he discovers her reality, he is outraged at being used for a lab test. However, he feels drawn towards her and convinces his maasi to send her to India so that she can go through the ultimate test — surviving a big, crazy Indian family (that s obsessed with Aryan s marriage). Whether he will have his happily ever after with the almost-perfect robot forms the rest of the story.
Amit Joshi and Aradhana Sah serve a novel, breezy, and fun concept with a quirky situation. The laughs here are in the absurd situations that the human-robot couple encounters along the way. However, the story takes a while to build up, and the scenes where Aryan s family warms up to Sifra are overstretched. The story picks up steam almost towards the end after a big twist.
Although the concept is unique, the narrative often finds itself going around in circles while trying to build the story around it. The movie also touches upon the man vs machine debate, and using AI and robots responsibly. This aspect seems rushed and wraps up too quickly.
The film elicits quite a few laughs, mainly owing to the characters reactions. The humour is not so much in the dialogues but in their delivery and timing — especially Aryan s interaction with his friend and colleague, Monty (Ashish Verma), who pulls off his goofy act very well.
The movie s appeal lies in romance, and Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon have a smashing on-screen chemistry. Kriti s poker-faced robotic act and on-cue laughter are hilarious, and she delivers every scene where she glitches in the human world with aplomb. Shahid breezes through the role of an irreverent guy hopelessly in love. Dharmendra as Shahid s grandfather is adorable, and Dimple Kapadia is a treat to watch. Sachin-Jigar, Tanishk Bagchi, and Mitraz deliver a banger of a soundtrack, especially the title track (redux of Raghav s Angel Eyes) and Laal Peeli Ankhiyan.
At a time when mega-scale action films are ruling the big screen, this one comes as a refreshing concept packaged with humour and good music. The situational comedy gets repetitive and doesn t take off as smoothly, but when it lands, it proves to be an entertaining fare.
Fighter Movie Review Dhaval Roy, January 25, 2024, 4:11 PM IST critic s rating: 3.5/5 Fighter story: As India faces a militant attack in Kashmir, the country’s best combat aviators join forces to form Air Dragons. The story chronicles their bravery while protecting India, camaraderie, team spirit, and a top fighter pilot’s redemption after an incident in the past.
Fighter review: Riding high on India’s Republic Day fervour, Siddharth Anand’s outing has all the ingredients of a patriotic actioner. Top-notch aerial stunts skilfully delivered by the performers keep you on the edge of your seat. Sukhoi planes executing daring maneuvers set the tone for the film as the audience is introduced to the Air Dragons.
The squad includes Meenal Rathore, aka Minnie (Deepika Padukone), Shamsher Pathania, or Patty (Hrithik Roshan), Taj (Karan Singh Oberoi), and Basheer (Akshay Oberoi), with Rakesh ‘Rocky’ Jay Singh (Anil Kapoor) as their commander. The palpable tension between Rocky and Patty and a reference to a tragic incident in the past prepares you to expect drama along with thrill.
Director Siddharth Anand, known for action entertainers, treats one to slick sequences and enthralling cockpit drama. Action directors Se-yeong Oh, Parvez Shaikh, and Sunil Rodrigues masterfully captivate the audiences attention with exhilarating stunts and fight choregraphy from start to finish. Cinematographer Satchith Paulose deserves applause for lending the film gravitas, whether amid the mountains, over the valleys, or on the airbases. However, the predictable tracks and cliches take away from its appeal at various stages in the narrative. The film relies on the usual tropes of a dreaded Pakistani militant on a mission to destroy India and how the Air Dragons save the day. Lines reminding one of the true meaning of religion and patriotism have also been done many times before.
Besides the familiar premise, songs, backstories, and romance seem more of a distraction than taking the story forward. The angle of patriarchy and a woman breaking the glass ceiling in a male bastion seems a tad forced. All these elements give the film uneven pacing; the second half gets a bit slow until the climax. But when the real action begins, you will sit hooked to the screen.
Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone are at their peak in terms of performances. The former excels as a confident and rebellious squadron leader. The duo has a smoldering on-screen chemistry and does well in emotional scenes as well. Anil Kapoor is as dependable as ever and gets the nuances of his role bang on. Karan Singh Oberoi and Akshay Oberoi also stand their might among these stalwarts. Rishabh Sawhney plays the antagonist, Azhar Akhtar, with sincerity but falls short of being as dreaded as his character demands.
The tactical scenarios and how the Indian Air Force outsmarts the Pakistani defence add to the film’s thrill and make it more appealing. Fighter does not have much new to offer in terms of its plot and narrative. But it is an engaging fare, and if you are an action buff, the killer aerial combat sequences will leave you impressed.
Fighter Movie Review Dhaval Roy, January 25, 2024, 4:11 PM IST critic s rating: 3.5/5 Story: As India faces a militant attack in Kashmir, the country’s best combat aviators join forces to form Air Dragons. The story chronicles their bravery while protecting India, camaraderie, team spirit, and a top fighter pilot’s redemption after an incident in the past.
Review: Riding high on India’s Republic Day fervour, Siddharth Anand’s outing has all the ingredients of a patriotic actioner. Top-notch aerial stunts skilfully delivered by the performers keep you on the edge of your seat. Sukhoi planes executing daring maneuvers set the tone for the film as the audience is introduced to the Air Dragons.
The squad includes Meenal Rathore, aka Minnie (Deepika Padukone), Shamsher Pathania, or Patty (Hrithik Roshan), Taj (Karan Singh Oberoi), and Basheer (Akshay Oberoi), with Rakesh ‘Rocky’ Jay Singh (Anil Kapoor) as their commander. The palpable tension between Rocky and Patty and a reference to a tragic incident in the past prepares you to expect drama along with thrill.
Director Siddharth Anand, known for action entertainers, treats one to slick sequences and cockpit drama. Cinematographer Satchith Paulose deserves applause for lending the film gravitas, whether amid the mountains, over the valleys, or on the airbases. However, the predictable narrative and cliches take away from its appeal. The film relies on the usual tropes of a dreaded Pakistani militant on a mission to destroy India and how the Air Dragons save the day. Lines reminding one of the true meaning of religion and patriotism have also been done many times before.
Besides the familiar premise, songs, backstories, and romance seem more of a distraction than taking the story forward. The angle of patriarchy and a woman breaking the glass ceiling in a male bastion seems a tad forced. All these elements give the film uneven pacing; the second half gets a bit slow until the climax. But when the real action begins, you will sit hooked to screen.
Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone are at their peak in terms of performances. The former excels as a confident and rebellious squadron leader. The duo has a smoldering on-screen chemistry and does well in emotional scenes as well. Anil Kapoor is as dependable as ever and gets the nuances of a commander and a patriot bang on. Karan Singh Oberoi and Akshay Oberoi also stand their might among these stalwarts. Rishabh Sawhney plays the antagonist, Azhar Akhtar, with sincerity but falls short of being as dreaded as his character demands.
The tactical scenarios and how the Indian Air Force outsmarts the Pakistani defence add to the film’s thrill and make it more appealing. Fighter does not have much new to offer in terms of its plot and narrative. But it is an engaging fare, and if you are an action buff, the killer aerial combat sequences will leave you impressed.
