Chandu Champion is a biographical sports drama directed by Kabir Khan, which tells the inspiring story of Murlikant Petkar, India’s first Paralympic gold medalist. Starring Kartik Aaryan in the titular role, the film captures the essence of Petkar’s incredible journey, showcasing his resilience and determination. Here’s a detailed review of the movie, covering various aspects such as the script, direction, performances, cinematography, and overall impact.
Introduction
The film begins in 2017 with an elderly Murlikant Petkar (played by Kartik Aaryan) recounting his life’s story to a police officer, while applying for the prestigious Arjuna Award. The narrative then takes us back to Petkar’s early life in the village of Islampur, Sangli, his aspirations to become a wrestler, his service in the Indian military, and the life-changing events during the 1965 Kashmir war.
Script and Storyline
Chandu Champion does an excellent job of narrating a story that needed to be told. The screenplay, written by Sumit Arora and Sudipto Sarkar, is engaging and well-paced for the most part. The first half of the movie is particularly strong, depicting Murlikant’s childhood dreams, his achievements in wrestling, and his harrowing experience during the war where he was shot multiple times.
The second half of the movie shifts focus to Petkar’s rehabilitation and his determination to compete in the Paralympics. Despite facing numerous challenges, including his inability to walk, Petkar’s journey is portrayed with sensitivity and realism. The script successfully captures the emotional highs and lows, making the audience root for Petkar throughout his journey.
However, the film does lose some momentum in the second half with the introduction of additional characters and frequent timeline shifts. Despite this, the overall narrative remains inspiring and motivating.
Direction
Kabir Khan’s direction is commendable, as he manages to bring out the best in his actors while maintaining a strong emotional core. Khan’s ability to weave a compelling story around real-life events is evident in Chandu Champion. He ensures that the film does not become overly melodramatic or preachy, striking the right balance between drama and inspiration.
Khan’s direction is particularly effective in the first half of the film, where he seamlessly transitions between Petkar’s early life and his military service. The depiction of the 1965 Kashmir war is intense and impactful, setting the stage for Petkar’s subsequent struggles and triumphs. In the second half, while the pace slackens slightly, Khan keeps the audience engaged through well-crafted scenes and strong character development.
Performances
Kartik Aaryan delivers a career-best performance as Murlikant Petkar. His physical transformation for the role is impressive, and he captures the nuances of Petkar’s character with authenticity. Aaryan’s portrayal of Petkar’s determination, vulnerability, and resilience is both convincing and moving. He excels in scenes that require emotional depth, bringing a raw honesty to his performance.
The casting is well-done, with supporting actors Bhuvan Arora and Rajpal Yadav providing lighthearted moments. Though Yadav’s comedic relief is present, it is well-balanced and does not overshadow the film’s emotional core. The child actor playing young Petkar also delivers a noteworthy performance, adding to the film’s authenticity.
Cinematography
The cinematography by Aseem Mishra is visually appealing and complements the film’s narrative beautifully. The camera angles are well-executed, capturing the essence of Petkar’s journey and the various phases of his life. The scenes set in rural Sangli are captured with a rustic charm, while the war sequences are depicted with a gritty realism. The underwater sequences, showcasing Petkar’s training for the Paralympics, are particularly well-shot, highlighting the character’s determination and the physical challenges he overcomes.
Mishra’s use of lighting and framing enhances the emotional tone of the film, making the audience feel intimately connected with Petkar’s journey. The contrast between the vibrant colors of Petkar’s childhood and the muted tones of his post-war life effectively conveys the dramatic shifts in his circumstances.
Music and Soundtrack
The soundtrack of Chandu Champion, composed by Pritam, adds a layer of emotional depth to the film. The music is well-integrated into the narrative, enhancing key moments without overshadowing the story. The background score, in particular, is effective in underscoring the film’s dramatic and inspirational moments.
Overall Impact
Chandu Champion is a film that celebrates the human spirit and the power of perseverance. It tells the story of a man who refused to give up, despite the odds being stacked against him. The movie is not just a biopic but a tribute to all those who have faced similar challenges and emerged victorious.
The film’s inspirational message is delivered with sincerity, making it a must-watch for anyone looking for a story of hope and determination. Despite minor pacing issues in the second half, Chandu Champion succeeds in leaving a lasting impact on the audience.
Rating: 3.5/5 Stars
Chandu Champion is a well-crafted biopic that shines a light on an unsung hero. With strong performances, particularly from Kartik Aaryan, and thoughtful direction by Kabir Khan, the film is both inspiring and engaging. It is a fitting tribute to Murlikant Petkar’s incredible journey and a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit.
Conclusion
Chandu Champion is an inspiring tale that deserves to be seen. Kartik Aaryan’s performance as Murlikant Petkar is commendable, and Kabir Khan’s direction ensures that the story is told with the respect and sensitivity it deserves. The film’s minor flaws are overshadowed by its powerful message and emotional depth.
FAQs
1. What is the movie “Chandu Champion” about? Chandu Champion is a biographical sports drama that tells the inspiring story of Murlikant Petkar, India’s first Paralympic gold medalist. The film chronicles his journey from childhood dreams to his remarkable achievements despite severe physical challenges.
2. How is Kartik Aaryan’s performance in the film? Kartik Aaryan delivers his career-best performance in Chandu Champion, portraying Murlikant Petkar with remarkable conviction and authenticity.
3. Who directed “Chandu Champion”? The film is directed by Kabir Khan, known for his ability to bring real-life stories to the big screen with depth and sensitivity.
4. What are the highlights of the movie? The movie’s highlights include Kartik Aaryan’s performance, the compelling script, the depiction of Petkar’s perseverance, and the well-executed direction by Kabir Khan. The cinematography and music also significantly enhance the film’s emotional impact.
5. Is “Chandu Champion” worth watching? Yes, Chandu Champion is highly recommended for its inspirational story, powerful performances, and respectful portrayal of Murlikant Petkar’s life journey.
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