Chandu Champion Movie Review
Chandu Champion Movie Review: Chandu Champion, directed by Kabir Khan, is a sports biopic that dramatizes the extraordinary life of Murlikant Petkar, India’s first Paralympic gold medalist. Featuring Kartik Aaryan in the titular role, the film delves into themes of perseverance, ambition, and resilience while navigating through the trials and tribulations of a man who overcame significant odds to achieve unparalleled success on a global stage. With Vijay Raaz and Bhuvan Arora in pivotal supporting roles, the film is a poignant yet predictable entry in the sports-drama genre.
Chandu Champion Movie Review: The story follows Murlikant Petkar’s journey from a small-town boy with big dreams to a soldier and, eventually, an athlete who redefined India’s presence in the Paralympic arena. It begins with an older Murlikant narrating his life story in a police station, framing the narrative as a reflective recollection. The film traces his childhood, marked by ridicule and ambition, and his eventual rise through the ranks as a boxer in the Indian Army.
Chandu Champion Movie Review: Kabir Khan’s direction is characterized by his ability to blend high emotional stakes with grand cinematic moments. The war sequences are particularly striking, with Sudeep Chatterjee’s cinematography capturing the chaos and intensity of battle. A standout scene involves Murlikant being injured during an air raid a moment that serves as both a turning point in the protagonist’s life and a visual testament to the resilience of the human spirit. The sports sequences, especially the swimming events, are well-choreographed, giving the film a sense of urgency and excitement.
Chandu Champion Movie Review: Kartik Aaryan steps into uncharted territory with this role, departing from his usual comedic and romantic ventures. His portrayal of Murlikant Petkar is earnest, capturing both the physicality and emotional depth required for the character. Aaryan’s performance shines in moments of quiet determination, particularly during the training montages and the climactic Paralympic event. However, the script occasionally limits his potential, as the narrative often falls back on familiar tropes of the genre.
Chandu Champion Movie Review: Vijay Raaz delivers a compelling performance as Murlikant’s coach, providing a grounded counterpoint to the protagonist’s fiery ambition. Bhuvan Arora and the rest of the supporting cast contribute effectively, though their roles are largely confined to advancing the central narrative. Raaz, in particular, brings a gravitas to the film, elevating scenes that might have otherwise felt overly sentimental.
Chandu Champion Movie Review: While Chandu Champion succeeds in its emotional beats, it struggles to break free from the constraints of conventional storytelling. The film follows a predictable arc, with moments of triumph and despair arriving at expected intervals. The narrative is punctuated by inspirational speeches, training montages, and slow-motion victory scenes that, while effective, lack originality.
Chandu Champion Movie Review: The film also grapples with its pacing, with certain segments feeling rushed while others are overly drawn out. The early scenes, which depict Murlikant’s childhood and introduction to boxing, are engaging but quickly give way to a series of montages that compress significant events into short bursts. Conversely, the climactic Paralympic sequences are given ample time, allowing the audience to fully immerse themselves in Murlikant’s triumph.
Chandu Champion Movie Review: Despite these shortcomings, Chandu Champion succeeds as a tribute to an unsung hero whose story deserves to be told. The film highlights the challenges faced by differently-abled athletes in a society that often overlooks their contributions. It also underscores the importance of resilience and determination in the face of adversity, themes that resonate universally.
Chandu Champion Movie Review: Kabir Khan’s filmmaking expertise is evident in the technical aspects of the production. The visuals are complemented by an evocative score that heightens the emotional resonance of key scenes. The use of archival footage and historical references adds authenticity to the narrative, grounding it in a specific time and place.
In conclusion, Chandu Champion is a heartfelt and inspiring film that shines a light on a lesser-known chapter of Indian sports history. While it may not reinvent the genre, its earnest storytelling and strong performances make it a worthwhile watch. Kartik Aaryan’s transformation into Murlikant Petkar is commendable, and Kabir Khan’s direction ensures that the film remains engaging despite its predictable structure. For audiences seeking an uplifting tale of perseverance and triumph, Chandu Champion delivers on its promise, reminding us of the power of determination and the enduring legacy of those who dare to dream.
Release date: 14 June 2024 (India)
Director: Kabir Khan
Box office: est. ₹88.73 crore
Distributed by: Pen Studios
Cinematography: Sudeep Chatterjee