3 November 2023, Mumbai: Vicky Kaushal’s “Sam Bahadur” bravely faces off against Ranbir Kapoor’s “Animal.” Released on the same day, the Meghana Gulzar-directed war drama initially encountered fierce competition. Despite the challenging landscape, “Sam Bahadur” showcased its mettle, making a commendable jump of 50 percent in collections on the second day, reaching a total of Rs 15.50 crore.
Saturday Surge of Sam Bahadur
On the crucial second day, Saturday witnessed a surge for “Sam Bahadur,” amassing Rs 9.25 crore, as reported by industry tracker Sacnilk. The film’s Hindi occupancy stood at a notable 46 percent. Delving into regional nuances, Pune exhibited the highest enthusiasm with a staggering 75 percent occupancy, closely followed by Chennai at 54 percent. This regional resonance underscores the film’s diverse appeal and growing popularity.
The Filmy Charcha Review Of ‘Sam Bahadur’
Ratings: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ and a half
Review: In the world of war epics, Sam Bahadur emerges as a distinctive thread, reopening the untold chapters of Sam Manekshaw’s life. The film artfully peels back layers, revealing the enigmatic rapport between Manekshaw and General Yahya Khan, offering a nuanced exploration of the challenges he faced, including the unsettling brush with accusations of being anti-national. Yet, amidst the gravity of war, the narrative unveils lighter shades—Sam’s camaraderie with Gurkha soldiers, his banter with a cantankerous cook, and the playful exchanges with Indira Gandhi, adding an unexpected yet delightful flavor to the overarching story.
The film’s strength lies in capturing the synergy between Sam and Indira Gandhi, showcasing a rare understanding that transcends the battlefield. The initial scenes, set against the backdrop of Mussoorie and Firozpur, serve as crucial brushstrokes in shaping Sam’s character i.e. a soldier with an unwavering commitment to serve his nation, even at the cost of societal labels.
Vicky Kaushal as Sam Manekshaw – The Leading Force in “Sam Bahadur’’
Vicky Kaushal, essaying the role of India’s first Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, emerges as the leading force driving “Sam Bahadur’s” success. Alongside co-stars Sanya Malhotra and Fatima Sana Shaikh in pivotal roles, Kaushal’s portrayal garners both audience and critical acclaim. The film unfolds as a testament to Vicky’s acting prowess, navigating the intricacies of an excessively declamatory narrative with finesse.
“Animal” Roars to Box Office
While “Sam Bahadur” claims its share of the spotlight, the formidable foe, Sandeep Reddy Vanga’s “Animal,” roars louder at the box office. Achieving over Rs 100 crore within two days, “Animal” stormed in with Rs 63.8 crore on day one and an impressive Rs 66 crore on day two. An ensemble cast featuring Anil Kapoor, Bobby Deol, and Rashmika Mandanna further solidifies the film’s prowess.
Vicky Kaushal on the Clash
In the face of this high-stakes clash, Vicky Kaushal remainsdiplomatic, likening the scenario to a cricket match with two opening batsmen. Emphasizing a unified front for Hindi cinema, Kaushal notes that despite the clash, both films contribute to the same cinematic legacy. In this analogy, one film may hit boundaries while the other holds the crease, emphasizing collaboration over competition.
By Yashika Desai