Bollywood’s latest offering, “Fighter Review,” directed and co-produced by Siddharth Anand, takes audiences on a high-flying adventure in the world of aerial action thrillers. Starring the charismatic Hrithik Roshan, the film attempts to elevate itself to new heights but encounters turbulence along the way.
Plot Overview:
“Fighter” introduces us to Squadron Leader Shamsher Pathania, portrayed by Hrithik Roshan, a man defined by courage and confidence, familiar traits for those acquainted with Roshan’s previous military roles. The film unfolds against a backdrop of contemporary geopolitical tensions, referencing real-life events such as Pulwama, Balakot, and Uri, adding a layer of relevance to the narrative.
Character Dynamics:
Roshan’s Shamsher Pathania is not just a fighter pilot; he’s a cocktail of charisma, courage, and charm. The storyline, however, falls victim to the clichéd Bollywood war film construct, where offense is deemed the best defense, and revenge the answer to deceit. The film’s characters, including Deepika Padukone’s Squadron Leader Minal Rathore and Anil Kapoor’s Group Captain Rakesh Jaisingh, play their parts within these familiar tropes.
Aerial Spectacles and Dogfights:
The film’s 166-minute runtime is punctuated with daring dogfights and air sorties designed to showcase the valor of fighter pilots. While some of the action is visually impressive, it falls short of delivering the edge-of-your-seat excitement expected from a film of this genre. The incorporation of 3D technology adds little value to the overall experience.
The Emotional Resonance:
“Fighter” finds its emotional core in the second half, slowing down to explore the personal lives of its characters. A poignant moment arises when Shamsher meets Minal’s parents, played by Ashutosh Rana and Geeta Agrawal, underscoring the significance of their daughter’s achievements. The film also delves into the enduring camaraderie between Shamsher and his Air Force Academy batchmate Sartaj Gill, portrayed by Karan Singh Grover.
Performance Highlights:
Hrithik Roshan invests his best efforts to lift “Fighter,” showcasing his versatility as an actor. Deepika Padukone holds her ground in a predominantly male-centric narrative, bringing solidity to her character. Anil Kapoor’s restrained performance adds a touch of gravitas to the film, though the lack of a formidable villain leaves a void in the antagonist department.
Top Gun Parallels:
The film draws unmistakable parallels with the iconic Hollywood film “Top Gun,” starring Tom Cruise. From the lone-wolf protagonist haunted by his past to the clashes with superiors and the redemption arc, “Fighter” echoes the themes of “Top Gun.” While this homage to a classic adds a layer of familiarity, it also invites comparisons that might not always work in its favor.
Patriotism and Jingoism:
“Fighter” positions itself as an ode to the Indian Air Force, proudly celebrating the bravery of the armed forces. However, the film occasionally leans into jingoistic territory, relying on campy plot devices. The patriotic sentiment, while commendable, could have been more nuanced with a touch of imagination.
Verdict:
“Fighter” is a competently made film with moments of visual flair and emotional resonance. Hrithik Roshan’s stellar performance, supported by a strong cast, elevates the viewing experience. However, the film’s adherence to clichés and its inability to break free from the constraints of the war film genre result in a narrative that struggles to soar to greater heights.
Final Thoughts:
Despite its shortcomings, “Fighter” remains a fairly watchable cinematic experience. With a bit more imagination and a willingness to step outside the conventional boundaries of Bollywood war films, it had the potential to be truly scintillating. As it stands, the film delivers on certain fronts but leaves viewers yearning for a more fearless exploration of its thematic elements.
Also Read : “Fighter”: A Cinematic Magnum Opus Redefining Action Genre in 2024
Conclusion
“Fighter” offers a mix of adrenaline-pumping moments and emotional depth, making it a worthwhile watch for fans of the genre and those who appreciate Hrithik Roshan’s on-screen prowess.
Fighter Review: A Bollywood Sky-High Adventure with Moments of Brilliance and Missed Opportunities.
