"Sam Bahadur" Movie Review: Vicky Kaushal's Intense Performance Anchor
"Sam Bahadur," Meghna Gulzar's ambitious biographical film, encapsulates four decades of Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw's illustrious military career, covering five wars, anti-insurgency operations, and encounters with Prime Ministers. While the film feels a bit rushed due to its vast canvas, Vicky Kaushal's spirited portrayal and the well-crafted screenplay ensure a compelling narrative.
The movie, more of an intense character study than an action-heavy war film, successfully blends the story of Sam Manekshaw's remarkable life with the exploits of a legendary army figure. The screenplay adeptly selects incidents and encounters, creating a vivid portrayal of the general's grit, gallantry, and unwavering sense of purpose.
"Sam Bahadur" adopts a sweeping yet intimate narrative style, flitting between different periods from the 1940s to the 1970s. While it acknowledges some narrative gaps, the film doesn't lose its captivating saga, seamlessly connecting the protagonist's career with India's post-Independence history.
The screenplay provides enough narrative substance to do justice to Sam Manekshaw's charismatic personality and military career. The film humanizes the legendary soldier, avoiding the temptation to turn him into a larger-than-life hero, presenting a believable and multi-dimensional character rooted in reality.
Vicky Kaushal's portrayal of Sam Manekshaw is lauded for walking the tightrope between caricature and authenticity. His panache brings out the charm and firmness of the character, offering a nuanced performance that captures both the personal and professional facets of the iconic figure.
"Sam Bahadur" emerges as a well-rounded and rousing portrait of Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, anchored by Vicky Kaushal's high-spirited performance. The film successfully navigates through the complexities of a legendary military career, delivering an engaging narrative with historical context and humanizing the central figure.
