πππ (3 out of 5 stars)
Well, well, well, if it isnβt Bollywood trying to make another grand spectacle with noble intentions and ending up with a horse of a different color. π Yes, my dear Bollywood buffs, itβs your favorite sarcastic cynic, Review Rani, here to give you the lowdown on the latest period drama, βAzaadβ. π¬
This big budget flick tries to gallop its way into our hearts with a tale of a man and his horse set against the oppressive backdrop of British rule. Hold your horses, folks, this isnβt βWar Horseβ or βBlack Beautyβ, but an Indian twist on the equine love story. Our hero, Govind, falls head over hooves for Azaad, a stallion owned by rebel leader Vikram Singh. But then Vikram kicks the bucket, and Govind finds himself playing nanny to this majestic beast while stirring up a storm with the local Zamindarβs men. Drama ensues, leading to a grand showdown at the Ardh Kumbh fair.
The plot, though linear and average, manages to keep you engaged, much like a horse whisperer. Ajay Devgn, playing Vikram, shines like a well-polished saddle, but the burden of carrying the film becomes a bit too heavy for the newbie duo, Aaman Devgan and Rasha Thadani. No doubt, they put in their best hoof forward, but a period film demanded a bit more trot and canter from them. π
Despite its attempts to be a thoroughbred epic, βAzaadβ lacks the necessary tension between its protagonist and antagonist, resulting in a somewhat tame ride. The brutality of the British officers is underplayed, leaving us longing for more nail-biting moments. The filmβs climax, featuring a thrilling horse-riding sequence, manages to stir up some excitement, but by then, the horse has already bolted the stable, so to speak. π
On the bright side, the filmβs true star is Azaad, the stallion, who steals the show with his charismatic presence. Amit Trivediβs music provides a commendable soundtrack, making the film a bit more palatable for those who can stomach a Bollywood period drama.
Raniβs Wrap-Up:
In conclusion, βAzaadβ is a grand spectacle that tries to gallop to glory but ends up trotting towards mediocrity. Itβs like a horse race where the horse is a sure bet, but the jockey lacks the skills to bring it home. So, saddle up for a film that promises grandeur, delivers some, but ultimately leaves you feeling a bit stirrup-ed. ππ΄
And remember, darlings, this is Review Rani, signing off and reminding you to stay sassy, sarcastic, and entertained! π