Fighter: A Film Review

The latest movie to hit the Indian cinema, Fighter, directed by Siddharth Anand, is raising eyebrows across the industry. With a star-studded cast featuring Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone, the film unravels an intense narrative of an Indian air force squadron and their combat against terrorists. The movie has incited varying reactions, with some applauding its patriotic undertones while others disapproving of its overall execution.

Overdependence on CGI and Lackluster Action

A predominant critique against Fighter focuses on its excessive dependence on CGI and uninspiring action sequences. The film's reliance on computer-generated imagery to portray aerial combat has left many viewers unimpressed, with scenes often described as flat and unmemorable. The monotonous action sequences have even drawn parallels with the well-known Top Gun series. Additionally, the film's attempt to weave patriotism with commercial entertainment has resulted in out-of-place musical interludes and intrusive product placements, further diminishing the viewing experience.

Impressive VFX and CGI: A Silver Lining

Despite its shortcomings, Fighter does boast an impressive VFX and CGI, courtesy of Redefine and DNEG. The striking visual effects and computer-generated imagery lend a touch of realism to the film. The meticulous attention to the lighting, texture, and weight of the aircraft, and the intricate detailing of the surrounding landscape are indeed commendable. However, the impact of these visual marvels is somewhat marred by choppy editing and repetitive shots.

Hyper-nationalistic Storytelling Draws Criticism

Fighter's storytelling, heavily steeped in hyper-nationalism, has stirred controversy. The narrative, revolving around an India vs Pakistan showdown, is a recurrent theme in Hindi cinema. While such patriotic narratives are not unusual in contemporary Indian movies, some audiences found Fighter's approach overly assertive. The portrayal of the Indian armed forces as single-mindedly dedicated and Pakistan as a religious adversary has sparked debate. The film's depiction of minority communities and women has also come under scrutiny.

Final Thoughts

Fighter, unfortunately, falls short of its potential. The overwhelming patriotism, overuse of CGI, and obtrusive product placements eclipse the film's positive aspects. The performances, while satisfactory, do not make up for the uninspired storytelling and execution. Despite its flaws, Fighter may resonate with audiences seeking an overdose of hyper-nationalism and CGI-laden action sequences. However, it disappoints those hoping for a nuanced and engaging cinematic experience. To sum up, Fighter is a failed attempt at merging patriotism, action, and commercial entertainment. The excessive reliance on CGI, awkward musical interludes, and intrusive product placements dull the overall viewing experience. The movie's hyper-nationalistic storytelling and controversial portrayal of minority communities further polarize opinions. Despite commendable visuals, they are not enough to rescue the film's poorly executed narrative and lackluster storytelling. It might cater to certain niche audiences, but it fails to deliver a truly captivating and thought-provoking cinematic experience.