Fighter

Riding high on the occasion of the Indian Republic Day, Siddharth Anand’s Fighter has released in theatres near you. Bringing in a cinematic narrative with the promise of an adrenaline pumping action and patriotic fervor, this action flick is produced under the banner of Viacom18 Studios and Marflix Pictures. The film features the likes of Hrithik Roshan, Anil Kapoor and Deepika Padukone in the lead roles.

The film is positioned as the inaugural film to a planned franchise. Expect nothing but top notch aerial stunts and a tale of bravery and redemption. There are things that this movie loved by the audience like the movie Starfish that we can refer to.

Fighter plot

The story revolves around the Indian airforce and is loosely based on the recent airstrikes in Balakot. Here is a complete overview of the plot.

Forming the Air Dragons

As the Kashmiri Valley turns into a battleground from a militant attack, the film introduces the audience to the elite combat aviators, the Air Dragons. Unfolding in the picturesque backdrops of Kashmir, the narrative reflects on the escalating militant activities in the Srinagar valley. A turning point for the defense, which prompted to commission the Air Dragons division. An elite unit created by the Headquarters. The story of the film revolves around the squadron and their unwavering commitment to protect the motherland. Explore themes of team spirit and camaraderie along the complete runtime.

Thrills in the tactical scenes

Though not promising for a groundbreaking plot, the screenplay keeps the audiences engaged with some lovely aerial battles, which is completely new to Indian cinema. The high focus on tactical scenes where the Indians are able to breach the Pakistani defense adds that extra layer of thrill.

And while the film does not redefine filmmaking, the plot and narrative are compelling enough and coupled with the right execution of the aerial scenes, it is really a treat for the eyes on the big screen.

Fighter review

Led by a brilliant cast of Hritik Roshan as Squadron Leader Shamsher Pathania, Deepika as Squadron Leader Minal Rathore, and Anil Kapoor as Group Captain Rakesh Jai Singh, the lead cast did a brilliant job of exhibiting palpable on screen chemistry. Kapoor’s addition with vast experience does really well to enrich the overall ensemble on the big screen.

Slick action sequences plagued by a predictable plot.

The film delivers on the promise of slick sequences to bring forth a cockpit drama like never before. And with perfectly choreographed action directors Se-yeong Oh, Parvez Shaikh, and Sunil Rodrigues, the film’s visuals are rightfully heightened. These jaw dropping stunts masterfully capture the attention of the audience and does deserve all the praises for lending the film gravitas in diverse settings.

Although, many critics did point that the film does fall victim to predictability at times and relies more on traditional tropes. Many viewers can relate to the same old story of a dreaded Pakistani militant on a mission to destroy India. The inclusion of lines to echo the meaning of religion and patriotism does feel redundant at times, as many of us are accustomed to such themes being explored exhaustively in the past.

Stellar performances with some forced elements

The uneven pacing of the plot is quite evident throughout the runtime with a significant slow second half that culminates into the climax. And backstories, songs and the romance does seem like an after thought and distracts from the major elements of the film. This bland attempt to weave themes of patriarchy and a woman breaking the limits within a male-dominant environment feel somewhat forced. Plus, this also impacts the overall flow of the story.

Yet, Hritik Roshan and Deepika Padukone’s roles do a brilliant job of overshadowing the flaws and are able to anchor the film. Roshan excels in his role of the squadron leader, brimming with confidence. Padukone also brings her best to the screen to add an emotional depth to the narrative. And not to forget the evergreen and ever-dependable Anil Kapoor, embodying the nuances of his role effortlessly.

Fighter advance booking

According to the latest news, the film had sold over a lakh tickets in advance for the opening day across India and crossed the $300K mark in the international market. Fighter has netted over 3 crores domestically from the advance bookings which is quite a strong indicator for its box office success.

Fighter controversies

Like most other modern films, Fighter has also been riddled with controversies amidst its release buzz. Major Pakistani artists including Hania Aamir and Adnan Siddiqui voiced their disappointment as they accused the film of perpetuating hate filled narratives. The creators bounced back with quotes reflecting on the Pakistani’s involvement in past anti-India films.

This adds an unexpected layer to the story, and many argue about the responsibility of artists in shaping cross-border narratives.

Comments on the supporting cast in Fighter

The support cast including Karan Singh Oberoi and Akshay Oberoi hold their own against the seasoned actors on screen however, the sincerity of the antagonist, Azhar Akhtar played by Rishabh Sawhney does feel somewhat short. The antagonist does a convincing job but is not able to bring on the dreadfulness, a character of such stature demands. The clash between the Airdragons and the antagonist could have been more intense, with the stakes raised to create a more gripping showdown in the culminating climax.

Fighter flies as an engaging action spectacle that leverages good aerial stunts and stellar performances from its cast and while the film treads familiar territory, it manages to captivate the audience with its intense combat sequences and a patriotic backdrop. And, despite controversies surrounding its release, the film seems poised to make a mark at the box office, marking a strong start for Bollywood movie in 2024. The film may have its flaws, but its highs outweigh the lows, offering a thrilling cinematic experience for action enthusiasts.