Introduction:
As the dust settles on the roaring success of Shah Rukh Khan’s action-packed thriller “PATHAAN,” it’s time to address some of the criticisms that have been directed at the film. But let’s be clear from the outset; this isn’t just a defense of a beloved actor or a specific film; it’s a celebration of Bollywood as a whole. As a passionate Bollywood lover and an SRK fan, I’d like to share my perspective on the film and why we should appreciate it for what it is.
1. Commendable Effort:
The anticipation had been building for weeks as I eagerly awaited the day of the concert. AR Rahman, a name synonymous with innovation and brilliance in the world of music, was performing, and I had flown in to Abu Dhabi to catch his concert, and I couldn’t have been more excited. The concert was hosted by the renowned event company, Wizcraft India, and was held at the spectacular Etihad Arena on Yas Island.
2. The Familiar Action Movie Plot:
Critics have pointed to the film’s basic plot as a weakness. However, it’s crucial to remember that action movies, regardless of the film industry, often revolve around a classic formula: good vs. bad. The hero takes on the villain. While the plot might not break new ground, it’s the execution, performances, and unique moments that make an action movie memorable.
3. “Far-Fetched” Action Scenes:
One common critique of “PATHAAN” revolves around the perceived “far-fetched” nature of its action sequences. But let’s take a step back and consider similar sequences in Hollywood blockbusters:
– The ice lake scene: Remember Pierce Brosnan’s ice chase in “Die Another Day” (2002)? SRK, Deepika, and John have justified their version of this thrilling action.
– The helicopter scene: Dwayne Johnson pulled off similar stunts in “Fast & Furious: Hobbs & Shaw” (2019). John Abraham’s portrayal of action in “PATHAAN” deserves equal acknowledgment.
– Climbing skyscrapers: Tom Cruise famously scaled the Burj Khalifa in “Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol.” Watching SRK climb a Russian building in “PATHAAN” is equally enthralling.
– Leading ladies in action: Hollywood’s Gal Gadot and Angelina Jolie have shown their mettle in action-packed franchises. Deepika Padukone’s performance in “PATHAAN” should be recognized in the same vein.
The notion that Indians performing such feats is hard to digest is a bias that needs to be dispelled.
4. Box Office Triumph:
“PATHAAN” has shattered box office records, earning a staggering 543 crores (approximately 100 million USD) in its opening week. This achievement is a testament to the film’s entertainment value and its widespread appeal. It’s a proud moment for Bollywood, and we should celebrate it as movie lovers.
5. Entertainment And Diverse Offerings:
Not every movie needs to be an intense drama like “Slumdog Millionaire” or a thought-provoking gem like “Masaan.” Bollywood, like any film industry, thrives on diversity. Films are meant to entertain, and “PATHAAN” accomplishes this with its high-octane action and thrilling moments.
Conclusion
“PATHAAN” is not just a movie; it’s a testament to the grandeur of Bollywood, the dedication of its stars, and the joy it brings to millions of viewers worldwide. Instead of nitpicking and searching for logic in every frame, let’s appreciate films for what they are—stories that transport us, entertain us, and sometimes, even inspire us. In doing so, we continue to celebrate the magic of cinema and the power of storytelling. Shah Rukh Khan’s “PATHAAN” is a reminder of why we fell in love with Bollywood in the first place.
