Farhan Akhtar's highly anticipated war drama, "120 Bahadur," which tells the courageous story of Major Shaitan Singh Bhati and the 13th Battalion of the Kumaon Regiment during the 1962 Indo-China War, has been released to mixed reviews. While critics praise Akhtar's performance and the film's technical aspects, some find the film lacking the emotional depth and impactful storytelling needed to truly honor the real-life heroes of the Battle of Rezang La.
The film depicts the events of October 1962, when Chinese troops advanced towards Ladakh, and Major Shaitan Singh Bhati's company defended the crucial position at Rezang La in the Chushul sector. The narrative highlights the strategic importance of Chushul, as its capture would give the Chinese a significant advantage in seizing the rest of Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir. "120 Bahadur" aims to showcase the bravery and valor of the 120 soldiers who, despite being outnumbered and facing harsh conditions, chose to fight to the end.
Farhan Akhtar's portrayal of Major Shaitan Singh Bhati has been widely commended. Critics note that he embodies the character with conviction, showcasing both his commanding presence and emotional depth. Some reviews highlight that Akhtar "lived" the role wholeheartedly, capturing the soul-stirring personality of the real-life hero. While some find Akhtar's suave demeanor slightly at odds with the character, he reportedly redeems himself in the film's climax.
Director Razneesh Ghai's approach to the film has garnered both praise and criticism. Some appreciate his decision to focus on the present emotional journey of the soldiers on the battlefield, rather than relying on extensive flashbacks. The cinematography by Tetsuo Nagata has been lauded as eye-pleasing, effectively capturing the challenging terrain and intensity of the war. The war scenes are executed with finesse, offering a raw and unfiltered look at the battle. However, some critics felt that certain directorial choices were confusing, with abrupt cuts and oddly placed flashbacks disrupting the film's flow.
Several reviews point out that the first half of "120 Bahadur" feels routine, reminiscent of other Bollywood war films such as "Border," "Kesari," and "Shershaah". The film takes time to find its emotional footing, wading through familiar war drama tropes before establishing its unique identity. The music, a crucial element in many successful war films, has been described as underwhelming and forgettable, failing to leave a lasting impact. Despite the strong performances and technical merits, some critics argue that "120 Bahadur" lacks the emotional spine and impactful storytelling needed to elevate it from a sincere tribute to a truly stirring war drama.
Overall, "120 Bahadur" is a sincere effort to honor the unsung heroes of the Battle of Rezang La. Farhan Akhtar's performance and the film's immersive war detailing are commendable. However, the film struggles with a predictable first half, uneven pacing, and a lack of emotional depth, preventing it from achieving its full potential. While "120 Bahadur" may not be a definitive cinematic masterpiece, it serves as a reminder of the extraordinary courage and sacrifice of the Indian soldiers who defended their country against overwhelming odds.
