divyamishrak

Salman Khan's performance in this film is a revelation. Gone are the over-the-top, larger-than-life characters that have defined his career. Instead, he takes on a role that strips away his star persona, allowing him to showcase his true acting range. The prison fight scene is a testament to his physical dedication, while the quieter, more emotional moments demonstrate an unexpected vulnerability. The revenge narrative is far from predictable, with twists and turns that keep you guessing. The flashbacks are brilliantly woven into the story, deepening the mystery and adding layers to the character. The supporting characters, often relegated to secondary roles, are surprisingly well-developed, adding richness to the film. The action scenes are on par with Hollywood's best, and the cinematography creates a gritty, immersive atmosphere. The sound design is innovative, adding to the intensity of each scene. The film explores complex themes such as fatherhood, redemption, and moral ambiguity, all while showcasing genuine character relationships. The climax is both emotionally and intellectually satisfying, making this film a must-watch for anyone looking for something fresh in Indian cinema.

While The Waking of a Nation is largely about the Indian struggle for justice, it wouldn't have been as impactful without the actors who portrayed the British figures responsible for the massacre and its cover-up. Alex Reece as General Dyer, Carl Wharton as Lord William Hunter, and Paul McEwan as Michael O'Dwyer play their roles with chilling conviction, making the injustice feel even more real.

Alex Reece's portrayal of General Dyer is particularly striking. He embodies the cold ruthlessness of a man who believed he was simply carrying out his duty, making him all the more terrifying. He doesn't play Dyer as a loud, over-the-top villain but rather as someone disturbingly calm in his cruelty. His presence in the massacre scene is haunting, and his lack of remorse in the aftermath is infuriating.

Carl Wharton as Lord William Hunter brings a more controlled yet equally unsettling energy. As the head of the Hunter Commission, his character pretends to seek justice but is ultimately just another tool for the British administration to manipulate the narrative. His exchanges with Kantilal Sahni highlight the deep-rooted racism of the colonial system, where justice was never truly meant for Indians.

Paul McEwan's Michael O'Dwyer is arguably the most sinister of them all. Unlike Dyer, who pulled the trigger, O'Dwyer is the mastermind who ensured that the British Raj stayed in control through fear and suppression. His manipulative nature makes him one of the most frustrating characters to watch, yet his presence is crucial to understanding how the British system operated.

The brilliance of these performances lies in their restraint. None of them play exaggerated villains, yet their mere presence fills every scene with unease. Their performances make the viewer angry, frustrated, and heartbroken-all the emotions a series like this should evoke. The Waking of a Nation wouldn't be as powerful without them, and that's what makes their portrayals so essential to the story.

In Nadaaniyan, Ibrahim and Khushi delivered fairly decent performances for their first film. Ibrahim, being a debutant, showed that he has a screen presence in front of the camera. Of course, there's room to grow, but that's expected with any first film. Khushi surprised many with how well she handled the emotional scenes, showing a maturity that reflects her dedication. It's easy to be critical, but it's important to give new actors a fair chance to evolve. The film might not be groundbreaking, but it's an honest attempt. Instead of harsh judgments, maybe it's worth appreciating the effort and seeing where they go from here.