Starring: Farhan Akhtar, Sonam Kapoor, Divya Dutta, Rebecca Breeds, Meesha Shafi
Directed By: Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra
Music: Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy
If we look back in history, there are a number of legends who have been slowly forgotten. We have often failed to acknowledge the most honorable heroes of our country. The unsung heroes who have glorified the nation in a true sense. Cinema has the power to celebrate the lives of those who deserve to be known. The bigger the star, the greater the story behind them!
Biopics are the best way to honor the achievements of those whose names have gradually diminished in the history. Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra honors one such hero- “the Flying Sikh”, or as we know him, Milkha Singh! Bhaag Milkha Bhaag is the life story of the Indian track and field sprinter, whose undying spirit flew him to the sky.
Plot: It is the story of a boy who rose to become a legend. From running for his life to running for India’s pride, a journey so profound and overwhelming. It is the inspirational story of Milkha Singh, who battled the bruises and the atrocious memories of his past to win laurels for the nation.
Performances: Farhan Akhtar is absolutely laudable as Milkha Singh. He has meticulously transformed and immersed himself in the character. Each and every minute detail has been diligently taken care of by him. Nowhere in the film would you realize that he is not the real Milkha Singh. The tremendous energy and hard work that Farhan has put in is exemplary. Another striking thing about him is the amazingly carved out physique of an athlete that he has managed to achieve. He delivers the best performance of his career incredibly well!
Sonam Kapoor looks serene and beautiful in her miniscule screen presence. Divya Dutta, as Milkha’s elder sister, is impressive in her role. The emotions of maternal love and the pain of domestic violence have been brought out really well. Pavan Malhotra and Yograj Singh are two stars that shine bright throughout the film. Their presence is note-worthy and adds life to the movie.
Music: The music of the film has been given by the talented trio Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy with lyrics penned by Prasoon Joshi. The soundtracks are situational and add zeal to the movie. There is a wide variety of songs ranging from the power packed “Zinda” to the soulful Sufi number “Mera yaar”. The trio has done justification to the biopic with their album.
What’ good: A heart-touching story clubbed together with a stellar performance by Farhan Akhtar makes it absolutely flawless as a biopic. The characters look real and convincing. All the events and emotions have been accurately depicted.
What’s bad: The 3-hour duration might cause some discomfort. Certain scenes have been unnecessarily added. The horrific and painful sequences of the Partition distress the heart.
Bhaag Milkha Bhaag will certainly inculcate a sense of pride and honor for the undying spirit and the hard work of the Flying Sikh – Milkha Singh. It is one of the best biopics ever made in Bollywood. A compelling story and a brilliant performance by Farhan Akhtar, just enough to make you awestruck!
Verdict: It’s not just about running, it’s about running in the race of life!
Rating: *** and a 1/2
