Cast: Vicky Kaushal, Sanya Malhotra, Fatima Sana Shaikh, Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub
Director: Meghna Gulzar
Plot: Sam Manekshaw, a highly honored officer in the Indian army, devoted over four decades to serving and participated in five wars. Notably, he achieved the historic milestone of becoming the first army officer promoted to the esteemed rank of Field Marshal.
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.
Performances
Vicky Kaushal’s performance is the film’s crowning jewel. His portrayal breathes life into Manekshaw, offering a remarkably authentic rendition. His impeccable mannerisms, flawless diction, and authoritative aura underscore his prowess as a versatile actor. Mohd Zeeshan Ayub, as General Yahya Khan, and Govind Namdeo, portraying Sardar Patel, make noteworthy contributions, creating a balanced ensemble that complements each other on screen. However, the supporting cast, while competent, has uneven moments. Sanya Malhotra, in the role of Sam’s wife, appears fleetingly, contributing minimally to the film’s plot. Fatima Sana Shaikh, tasked with portraying the formidable Indira Gandhi, falls short of fully embodying the leader’s strong will and assertiveness.
What Doesn’t Work
Yet, amid the commendable performances, Sam Bahadur grapples with shortcomings. The screenplay, though rich with moments ripe for heightened tension, fails to fully capitalize on them, leaving some dramatic opportunities untapped. The film’s treatment of female characters also raises concerns, with underdeveloped roles that contribute minimally to the broader narrative.
Vicky Kaushal’s commendable portrayal propels Sam Bahadur into the level of noteworthy biopics. His nuanced performance breathes life into Sam Manekshaw, adding authenticity to the character. However, despite Vicky’s shining moments, the film grapples with a lack of seamlessness in its cinematic world. The untapped potential for heightened tension leaves audiences yearning for a more gripping and immersive experience, ultimately rendering Sam Bahadur a commendable effort that falls just short of realizing its full cinematic potential.