Wake up guys, Amitabh Bachchan is back with another movie, and look at you yawning at 2 in the afternoon. Anyway, his new movie Jhund, directed by Nagraj Manjule, is a sports drama film that tells the true story of Vijay Barse and his establishment of the NGO, Slum Soccer. Starring the legendary Amitabh Bachchan in the lead role, Jhund explores themes of empowerment, resilience, and the transformative power of sports. Much like a game of football, Jhund brings both cheers and groans to the stadium, offering a rollercoaster cinematic experience.
This movie hits you right in the feels, serving up a powerful dose of inspiration. It beautifully captures the tale of Barse, a retired sports teacher, who assembles a ragtag soccer team of underprivileged kids from the slums. The film’s narrative is a rallying cry for empowerment, showing the incredible impact mentorship and dreams can have on even the most marginalized communities. However, while Jhund scores high on the emotional front, it plays it safe when it comes to the plot. You might find yourself predicting the outcome and wishing for a few surprise moves. A more nuanced screenplay could have added depth and unpredictability to the film.
Big B leads the troops while the young guns steal the show
Bachchan ji, with his trademark charisma, delivers a masterclass in acting, embodying the role of Vijay Barse with conviction, passion, and a twinkle in his eye. His performance captures the emotional nuances of Barse’s journey, making it a standout feature of the film. None of us can relate to the enthusiasm he has towards work even at this age.
The movie also brings together a dynamic ensemble cast, and the young actors playing the slum children steal the show. Their infectious energy injects life into the movie, making you root for their dreams. These rising stars bring authenticity and depth to their characters, making you believe in the power of the underdog. They effectively convey the struggles and dreams of their characters, contributing to the emotional appeal.
While the movie scores some goals, it concedes some too
Jhund exhibits visually appealing cinematography, capturing the juxtaposition of the dull, yet vibrant atmosphere of the slums and the adrenaline pumping thrills of the football matches. While the film’s soundtrack, composed by Ajay-Atul, does not have any memorable tunes, it complements the narrative and enhances the emotional impact of the story. But, some scenes could have used a swift edit to maintain a steady rhythm and keep the momentum going. But, the second half picks up the pace and brings the game back to life.
While Big B delivers an exceptional performance, some of the supporting characters lack substantial development. The film predominantly focuses on Barse, resulting in limited exploration of the individual stories and struggles of the slum children. A little more screen time and character development could have given the film an extra kick (puns intended).
Jhund is a powerhouse of emotions, showcasing Amitabh Bachchan’s MVP performance and the inspirational story of Vijay Barse’s mission to change lives through soccer. While the film excels in portraying Barse’s character and the overall message of empowerment, it falls short in terms of character development of the slum children and a predictable plot. Nevertheless, Jhund remains a heartwarming and uplifting film that highlights the transformative power of sports and mentorship in changing lives.
