Review of Major: A Balanced Perspective on a Patriotic Film

Major Unnikrishnan is a poignant tribute to a valiant soldier whose life and sacrifice are at the heart of this biographical film. The movie, starring Prakash Raj, explores the life of Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan, a soldier who tragically lost his life during the 26/11 terrorist attack in Mumbai. This review offers a balanced perspective on the film's strengths and weaknesses, with a focus on its historical accuracy and the portrayal of the 26/11 event.

Film Analysis

The movie is a comprehensive account of Major Unnikrishnan's life, from his childhood to his ultimate sacrifice. It successfully captures the essence of his dedication to his country and his responsibilities as a soldier. The scenes depicting the 26/11 attack are indeed a visual treat, showcasing the bravery and resilience of the soldiers involved in the rescue operation. The transition from the biographical elements to the action sequences is effective, adding to the overall drama and emotional depth of the film.

Biographical Accuracy vs. Action

One notable aspect of the film is its portrayal of the 26/11 attack, which, according to the reviewer, is significantly inaccurate. While the film is essentially a biography of Major Unnikrishnan, the events surrounding the 26/11 attack take up a considerable portion of the narrative. The action scenes are exaggerated, primarily in the spirit of the genre, but this might not align with the historical accuracy desired by some audiences. The reviewer advocates viewing the film mainly as a biography of Major Unnikrishnan, with the action sequences serving as supplementary elements.

Strengths of the Film

The film excels in multiple areas. The acting, especially by Prakash Raj, is commendable, bringing depth to the character of Major Unnikrishnan. The supporting cast, including Murli Sharma, Prakash Raj, and Shobhit Dhulipala, adds to the overall quality of the production. The dialogue and direction are well-crafted, and the climax is particularly well-executed, providing a sense of closure while paying tributes to the hero's life.

Challenges and Disappointments

While the film is generally well-received, there are some aspects that could have been improved. The excessive action scenes are a significant point of contention, as they do not match the realistic portrayal that one might expect from a biographical film based on a true story. The placement of the background music (BGM) is another area that could use improvement. The BGM was either missing during critical action sequences or present during events where it was unnecessary.

Conclusion

Overall, Major is an excellent film that successfully balances biography and action to create a powerful tribute to Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan. Despite some shortcomings, it remains a must-watch for those interested in Indian patriotic films and the true story of a loyal soldier. The film's portrayal of the 26/11 attack, while sometimes criticized, does not detract from the overarching narrative of honor and sacrifice.

Award and Recommendation

The reviewer rates the film 5 stars out of 5, acknowledging the remarkable performances and the overall tribute to Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan. While the action sequences are deemed unrealistic, they do not diminish the high quality of the biographical segments. The reviewer, who enjoyed the film on Netflix, highly recommends it to those seeking a balanced and emotionally satisfying experience in an Indian patriotic film.