JAWAN (2023)

Critic No. 317

Director: Atlee

Written by: Atlee, S Ramanagirivasan

Produced by: Red Chillies Entertainment

Casts: Shah Rukh Khan, Nayanthara, Deepika Padukone (cameo), Vijay Sethupathi, Priyamani, Sanya Malhotra

Music: Anirudh

Language: Tamil

Genre: Action

SYNOPSIS:

In ‘Jawan’ Shah Rukh Khan takes on the role of a masked vigilante on a mission to bring about societal change. He assembles a formidable team of super heroic women to combat the notorious arms dealer, Kali, played by Vijay Sethupathi.

REVIEW:

Tamil filmmaker Atlee, known for blockbusters like Raja Rani (2013), Theri (2016), Mersal (2017), Bigil (2019) makes his grand entrance into Bollywood with "Jawan." This time with the King of Bollywood Shah Rukh Khan. With two names known for blockbuster entertainers, will Jawan manage to crackle as well?

The film begins with a Vigilante, reminiscent of director Shankar's style, hijacking a train and demanding a ransom from the government. This Robin Hood-like figure confronts the government and wealthy corporate magnates for their wrongdoings against the impoverished. Narmada Rai, portrayed by Nayanthara, heads Force One, tasked with solving the case of the hijacker. The masked vigilante, known as Vikram Rathore, is eventually revealed to be Azad, a jailer at a women's prison. The central mystery revolves around why he has taken on this role and who Vikram Rathore truly is.

Jawan is a bombastic action masala film that draws inspiration from various Indian movies like Gentleman (1993), Indian (1996), Anniyan (2005), Soldier (1998), Dhoom 2 (2006) and even takes cues from series like Money Heist and Squid Game. Atlee also pays homage to his earlier works like Bigil (2019) and Mersal (2017) in terms of scenes and angles. While Jawan may not be a mere copycat, it does feel like a repackaged, loud spectacle that leans heavily on familiar tropes. The film races at breakneck speed with numerous characters in play, which sometimes distracts from the emotional core of the protagonist. As a result, it's challenging to form a deep connection with the characters and their emotional journeys. The main mystery is old as a hill that you can smell it from the first frame.

Shah Rukh Khan, with his distinctive theme music reminding us of his 'King Khan' status, stands out as the movie's saving grace. He effortlessly portrays two contrasting characters with panache, showcasing his acting prowess. Nayanthara's character is primarily functional, but she excels in action sequences. Vijay Sethupathi delivers a loud and caricaturist portrayal as the desi villain. Deepika Padukone makes a brief but impactful cameo, attempting to evoke emotional responses from the audience. Out of the girl squad, Priyamani stands out. 

While Atlee attempts to tug at the heartstrings of the audience, some of the emotional moments appear outdated and illogical. There are lots of questions that lingers around than answers after the film concludes. Look out for a scene involving female prisoners celebrating a bridal shower, which may raise eyebrows. For the primary target audience, Hindi viewers, ‘Jawan’ may seem substantial despite its resemblance to several South Indian films. Given the relatively simple storyline common in Bollywood, if ‘Pathaan’ (2023) found success, ‘Jawan’ has the potential to follow suit or even beat it.

Anirudh's music complements the grand scale of the film, while Ruben's editing keeps the pace brisk, although some scenes lack continuity. The action choreography by Anal Arasu is a standout, rivaling even Hollywood productions.

VERDICT:

Atlee, with ‘Jawan’ rehashes various Indian cinematic universes to piece up a fast-paced, grand action thriller that relies mainly on King Khan's magnetic charisma to stay afloat.

CELLULOID METER- 2.75/5: