Pathaan, a high-octane action-packed Bollywood spy thriller, stars Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone, and John Abraham in the lead roles. The film has been helmed by director Siddharth Anand and produced by Aditya Chopra under the Yash Raj Films banner. Released on January 25, 2023, the movie has garnered mixed reviews from critics, but the audience seems to be enjoying the star-studded spy caper.
Story and Screenplay:
The film follows the story of India’s best soldier/spy, Pathaan, played by Shah Rukh Khan, who is brought out of retirement to save the world from a rogue former Indian spy, Jim (John Abraham), who has turned to terrorism. Alongside Pathaan is the seductive yet lethal Rubai, portrayed by Deepika Padukone, who keeps the audience guessing about her true loyalties.
The story, written by Shridhar Raghavan, follows a standard spy thriller template with a fair share of twists and turns. While the first half of the movie is engaging and intriguing, the second half suffers from a weaker execution of the story’s twists, which feel somewhat dated. The film’s plot keeps the audience engaged but is not as smart as one would expect from a modern-day spy thriller.
Direction and Editing:
Director Siddharth Anand does an admirable job with the film, focusing on the style and keeping the audience entertained. The editing, however, could have been tighter, as the movie’s running time of 2 hours and 26 minutes feels a bit stretched, especially during the action sequences. The film’s pacing could have been improved with more judicious editing.
Songs and Background Score:
The music by Sanchit Balhara-Ankit and Vishal-Shekhar adds to the film’s overall appeal. The background score by the Balhara brothers is impressive and elevates the film’s action sequences. The songs, such as “Besharm Rang” and “Jhoome Jo Pathaan,” are catchy and enjoyable, enhancing the film’s entertainment quotient.
Cinematography:
Satchith Paulose’s cinematography is one of the film’s highlights, capturing the essence of the story and creating visually stunning action set-pieces. However, there are instances where the cinematography struggles during fast-paced action sequences, relying heavily on subpar VFX, which can detract from the overall viewing experience.
Performances:
Shah Rukh Khan, as Pathaan, delivers a charismatic performance, carrying the film with his charm and screen presence. He brings the perfect blend of intensity and humor to his character, making the audience root for him throughout the movie.
Deepika Padukone, as Rubai, is captivating and adds an element of mystery and allure to her character. However, her character’s writing could have been better, avoiding the stereotypical portrayal of female characters in Bollywood.
John Abraham, as the antagonist Jim, brings a menacing presence to the screen but is somewhat underutilized due to the script’s limitations. The supporting cast, including Dimple Kapadia and Ashutosh Rana, does a commendable job in their respective roles, adding depth to the film’s narrative.
Action and Choreography:
Pathaan features some breathtaking action sequences and stunts that are on par with international spy thrillers like James Bond and Mission: Impossible. However, the action choreography sometimes glosses over the basic laws of physics and gravity, making some scenes appear implausible.
Costume Design and Art Direction:
The costume design and art direction in Pathaan are top-notch, reflecting the film’s international scope and grandeur. The costumes are stylish and apt for the characters, while the art direction effectively captures the essence of the various exotic locations featured in the film.
Conclusion:
Pathaan is an entertaining spy thriller that brings together a stellar cast, breathtaking action sequences, and a captivating storyline. While the film has its flaws, such as a weaker second half and some implausible action choreography, it manages to keep the audience engaged with its mix of drama, humor, and high-stakes thrills.
Shah Rukh Khan’s comeback performance is a treat for his fans, and the film serves as a solid addition to Bollywood’s growing spy universe. Overall, Pathaan is a fun watch that offers a thrilling cinematic experience, even if it doesn’t break new ground in the spy thriller genre.
Summary of Reviews and Ratings:
- The Guardian: 3/5
- Koimoi: 4/5
- NDTV: 3.5/5
- Times of India: 4/5
- Indian Express: 3.5/5
- Hindustan Times: 4/5
Average Rating: 3.67/5
Pathaan, with its high-octane action, charismatic performances, and engaging story, receives an overall rating of 3.8/5. Despite its shortcomings, the film offers a thrilling and entertaining ride that is worth watching on the big screen.
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