Chhaava

Laxman Utekar's Chhaava focuses on the Battle of Burhanpur and its impact on the Maratha-Mughal war, rather than being a complete biopic of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. The first half of the film struggles with pacing, but the second half gains momentum, leading to an intense and emotionally charged climax. The confrontation between Sambhaji Maharaj and Aurangzeb, particularly the exchange between Vicky Kaushal and Vineet Kumar, stands out as one of the film's most powerful moments. The battle sequences are well-executed, but the background score by A. R. Rahman lacks the necessary intensity to match the spirit of the Marathas. The action scenes are largely effective, though some exaggerated stunts and editing choices take away from the realism. Despite this, the film excels in its cinematography, costume design, and CGI, successfully recreating the historical setting.

The performances elevate the film. Vicky Kaushal delivers a commanding portrayal of Sambhaji Maharaj, capturing his strength, determination, and sacrifice, especially in the final moments. Akshaye Khanna leaves a strong impact as Aurangzeb, despite limited dialogue, while Rashmika Mandanna, though competent, feels miscast. Ashutosh Rana provides solid support, and Vineet Kumar stands out with his gripping screen presence. While the film has its shortcomings, it succeeds in honoring Sambhaji Maharaj's legacy, ensuring that his courage and sacrifice remain etched in the minds of the audience.

At its core, Chhaava is not just about a warrior-it's about the idea of resilience, sacrifice, and legacy. It's about what it means to fight for something greater than oneself. The film leaves the audience not just with admiration for Sambhaji Maharaj but with a deep respect for the ideals he stood for. It is a rare historical film that manages to entertain, educate, and inspire all at once. Whether you're a history enthusiast or just someone who loves a great story, this film is an absolute must-watch. Whether you're a history enthusiast or just someone who loves a great story, this film is an absolute must-watch.

Movie was good; though whoever directed the background music totally effed it up, I had to shut my ears every time a fight scene came.

Also I think it should have had more Marathi dialect, rashmika's hindi sounded a bit off, action scenes were really good, though they should've shown some tactical schemes by marathas, as they were known for their tactics and skills.

There were a lot of politics going on during that time, movie did not cover it however it is based on the life of Shambha ji's life and the movie did good there, costume and makeup artists did a really good job. The first half seemed a bit off, although movie caught the rhythm by the second half.

While the movie is based on the book, the events could have been portrayed with a much better screenplay and some better music. Overall the movie is good but there were many parts that could have been acted well.

Screenplay suffers in many areas before and after interval where it slows down the pace of thw film. Dialogue should have been strong enough and music should have elevated the actions performed by the actors. But Rahman added much of the regular average music to this movie with some romantic music to some songs that is generally given to romantic movie songs.

It was the best opportunity he could have used to come back with equal or greater music composition on par with Jodha Akbar that he gave. But it falls much below average. Directors needed to focus more on editing and screenplay skills. Story telling was quiet good. The movie elevated well from the moment he had to fight and get captured till the very end.

It was directed more like a TV serial budget direction. Movies will need much better skills to make it a perfect cut.

The cinematography in this movie is nothing short of spectacular.

. Art direction is superb.

. Every frame feels like a painting, with beautifully composed shots that highlight the grandeur of the Maratha Empire. Whether it's the vast expanse of a battlefield, the golden hues of a sunset over a fort, or the intricate detailing of a palace, the visuals transport the audience back in time. The use of lighting, especially in dramatic sequences, adds a poetic quality to the storytelling, making key moments even more impactful.

. Actors have performed well. Storytelling by the director is also engaging even with the limitations as per the biopic of such a legend which ends brutally as of betrayal.

. But at someplaces background music is too loud like other grand movies since the last two years in an influence of south indian commercial works!

Moreover, at many places the action movements took a complete opposite side from- laws of physics. Again like south indian movies.

. It focuses on pride, family, a son, a king, a selfless devotee & a warrior with extreme physical strength.

Best movie of this year yet.

So I suggest to everyone to watch this to know the history of forgotten heroes.