Chhaava Movie Review

Plot

The movie revolves around the life and struggles of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Raje, son of the legendary Chhatrapati Shivaji Raje. It portrays his rise, fall, and battles against the powerful Mughal empire led by Aurangzeb. The film showcases Sambhaji's bravery, resilience, and fight for Swaraj amid betrayals and capture.

Acting

Vicky Kaushal delivers a powerful performance as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Raje, embodying the valour and passion of the character. Akshaye Khanna impresses as the antagonist Aurangzeb with his effective portrayal. However, supporting actors like Vineet Kumar Singh and Divya Dutta shine in their roles, while Rashmika Mandanna and Diana Penty struggle to make an impact.

Cinematography

The film captures the grandeur of its historical backdrop with impressive visuals and well-choreographed fight sequences. The second half is particularly engaging, with stunning shots and a thrilling climax that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. The use of music, especially AR Rahman's compositions, enhances the narrative, although some tracks may feel out of place.

Direction

Director Laxman Utekar ambitiously takes on the task of bringing Chhatrapati Sambhaji Raje's story to the big screen. While the film starts slow and lacks emotional depth in the beginning, it gains momentum in the second half, delivering a gripping and intense portrayal of Sambhaji's battle against the Mughals. Utekar's treatment of the climax symbolizes Sambhaji's unwavering spirit amidst adversity.

Conclusion

Chhaava is a commendable attempt at showcasing the life of a lesser-known historical figure, but falls short in its execution. Despite standout performances by Vicky Kaushal and Akshaye Khanna, the film struggles with pacing issues, historical inaccuracies, and a reliance on excessive action sequences. While the cinematography and music elevate certain aspects of the film, it ultimately lacks the emotional connect and depth needed to truly resonate with the audience.