Vicky Kaushal and Akshaye Khanna give it their all in Chhaava, but the drama of this period epic is overshadowed by an over-reliance on violence and action.
Vicky Kaushal gives a gripping portrayal as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj in Chhaava, particularly in a passage where he represents the warrior’s unwavering devotion to Swaraj. In this sequence, he fights relentlessly against adversaries, even as his comrades fall, injecting vitality into the movie. However, the path to this climactic point is uneven, frequently testing the audience’s endurance.
Directed by Laxman Utekar, Chhaava features Vicky Kaushal portraying Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the second ruler of the Maratha Empire. He is fighting back as Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb (Akshaye Khanna) expands his dominion. Their conflict reaches a climax when Aurangzeb vows to only wear his crown after Sambhaji is destroyed. ‘I wore this crown while standing on the bodies of my entire family,’ he claims. To discover the unfolding events, view the movie.
Laxman’s content is based on Shivaji Sawant’s novel Chhaava. Right away, there is a strange problem with the film: there are war cries, scope, and ambition–every box on the war drama checklist is checked. The creators exert considerable effort to ensure each frame is as captivating as possible. Props’ authenticity is also spot on.
What works and what does not?
Chhaava’s first half lacks emotional connection, with spectacular vistas that do not resonate. Vicky Kaushal plays Sambhaji Maharaj convincingly, yet the emotional impact is delayed. The film’s deliberate pacing may cause the action sequences to feel repetitive. Akshaye Khanna’s depiction of Aurangzeb introduces a sense of menace, enhancing the narrative upon his entrance. The concluding segment is particularly engaging, featuring intense exchanges between Vicky Kaushal and Khanna. Nonetheless, the film could improve by minimizing extended battle scenes and emphasizing character-driven drama. The background score stands out, While A.R. Rahman’s compositions in Chhaava are crafted with his signature brilliance, some listeners feel that the music doesn’t leave a lasting impression.
In summarize
Chhaava aspires to be a profound tribute to Sambhaji Maharaj’s valor and ultimate sacrifice. Bad editing and the Maratha ruler’s excessive superherofication stand in the way of achieving that purpose. The film resonates when we recognize the protagonist’s humanity. The irony.
