In an ambitious cinematic endeavor, Meghna Gulzar’s latest biographical film, “Sam Bahadur,” unfolds a sweeping narrative that spans four decades of active military service, covering five wars, anti-insurgency operations, and encounters with Prime Ministers.
Released to mark its first anniversary, the film, while occasionally feeling hurried, successfully captures the essence of Field Marshal Sam Hormusji Framji Jamshedji Manekshaw’s illustrious life.
The movie, led by a spirited performance from Vicky Kaushal, presents a well-rounded and rousing portrait of the legendary army man.
Gulzar’s direction, alongside the screenplay crafted by Bhavani Iyer, Shantanu Srivastava, and herself, skillfully selects key incidents to infuse vibrancy into the narrative.
“Sam Bahadur” emerges as an intense character study, emphasizing the personal and human facets of General Manekshaw’s life.
The film avoids the pitfalls of flag-waving militarism, instead navigating through the less flashy components that construct this lively biopic.
Vicky Kaushal’s portrayal of Manekshaw strikes a delicate balance between authenticity and panache, avoiding the clichéd larger-than-life hero tropes often seen in Bollywood.
One of the standout features of “Sam Bahadur” is its nuanced approach to historical events, seamlessly blending the personal aspects of a general’s life with the broader context of India’s eventful history before and after Independence.
The film depicts moments of Manekshaw’s life with his wife, Silloo (played by Sanya Malhotra), offering a glimpse into the human side of the military leader.
The narrative navigates through pivotal points in time, from the early 1940s to the early 1970s, with some ellipses that, while noticeable, don’t hinder the overall captivating saga.
The film also delves into the complex socio-political landscape, exemplified by a court of inquiry scene where Manekshaw faces charges of being anti-national due to the presence of British soldiers’ portraits at the defense academy he oversees.
While the film is primarily centered around Manekshaw, it doesn’t neglect the political figures of the time. Jawaharlal Nehru‘s portrayal receives some criticism for being sketchy, whereas Indira Gandhi is portrayed more prominently, even stealing the spotlight in a scene where she confronts Henry Kissinger.
“Sam Bahadur” is not just a war movie filled with battle scenes and punchlines; it explores the ethos of a bygone era when love for the nation transcended religious boundaries.
The film portrays the diverse backgrounds of Indian soldiers marching towards a common goal, highlighting the celebration of unity in diversity.
As the film celebrates its one-year milestone, “Sam Bahadur” stands as a testament to Meghna Gulzar’s directorial prowess and Vicky Kaushal’s compelling performance.
By steering clear of clichés and presenting a nuanced portrayal of a legendary military figure, the biopic offers audiences a captivating and thought-provoking cinematic experience.
Cast:
Vicky Kaushal, Sanya Malhotra, Fatima Sana Shaikh, Mohd Zeeshan Ayyub and Neeraj Kabi
Director:
Meghna Gulzar
