In a cinematic world filled with Movie like Top Gun, Fighter attempts to soar high but ends up as a Bottom Gun. The star-studded cast, featuring Hrithik Roshan and the puzzling inclusion of Deepika Padukone, fails to salvage a film drowning in its own formulaic approach.
Rating: ⭐⭐
Starring: Hrithik Roshan, Deepika Padukone, Anil Kapoor, Karan Singh Grover, Akshay Oberoi, Rishabh Sawhney, Sanjeeda Sheikh
Directed by: Siddharth Anand Language:
Hindi Runtime: 2 hours 46 minutes
Available On: Theatrical Release
What Works:
- Fighter challenges the trend of jingoistic narratives dominating the screens, signaling a potential shift in storytelling.
What Doesn’t:
- The film, despite its privileges, fails to capitalize on its strengths, leaving the audience yearning for substance.
- The narrative’s focus narrows abruptly, making it seem like a budget constraint rather than a creative choice.
Toilet Break:
- Anytime the action isn’t taking place in the skies.
Watch or Not:
- Only if you’re in the mood for a mishmash of clichés from the genre.
Script Analysis:
Ramon Chibb and Siddharth Anand’s story unfolds predictably, offering little surprise for viewers. Fighter 2 seems foreseeable, thanks to the film’s adherence to the routine Siddharth Anand formula. While the film looks slick and the leads exude style, the interpersonal relationships lack depth, and character backstories feel lazily crafted.
The cinematography by Satchith Paulose showcases grandiose aerial sequences, but heavy VFX at times overshadows the potential visual brilliance. The story fails to build a strong connection with characters, leaving the audience disengaged.
Star Performances:
Hrithik Roshan’s potential remains untapped, and his fuzzy character portrayal prevents him from emerging as a compelling hero. Deepika Padukone’s underutilization is a criminal act, and her character adds little to the narrative. Anil Kapoor delivers what’s expected, while supporting characters seem present only to enhance Hrithik’s character.
Direction and Music:
Siddharth Anand’s adherence to a tried-and-tested formula might be his downfall, with diminishing returns becoming apparent. The background score by Sanchit Balhara and Ankit Balhara attempts to elevate dull scenes, but visuals overpower the effort. The songs, appearing abruptly during crucial moments, fail to leave a lasting impact.
The Last Word:
Fighter is a classic example of a film with all the right ingredients but failing to deliver a satisfying dish. The viewing experience may not be disappointing, but it leaves the audience tired and unfulfilled.
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