Sardar Udham, a biographical historical drama, was released on October 16, 2021. Directed by Shoojit Sircar, the movie delves deep into the life of Udham Singh, an Indian revolutionary who avenged the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. The film, starring Vicky Kaushal in the titular role, captures the essence of a freedom fighter’s relentless pursuit of justice. With its gripping narrative and emotional depth, Sardar Udham has carved a niche for itself among the finest Indian films in recent years.
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2. Plot Summary
The movie traces the journey of Udham Singh, a young man deeply affected by the Jallianwala Bagh massacre in 1919. Determined to bring the British perpetrators to justice, he embarks on a mission that spans continents and decades. The story intertwines his life in colonial India with his time in London, culminating in the assassination of Michael O’Dwyer, the former Lieutenant Governor of Punjab. Without revealing too much, Sardar Udham is not just a tale of revenge but a poignant narrative of sacrifice and patriotism.
3. What’s Good?
One of the most striking aspects of Sardar Udham is Vicky Kaushal’s stellar performance. He embodies the character with such authenticity that it’s hard to separate the actor from the revolutionary. His portrayal of grief, anger, and determination is both nuanced and powerful.
Shoojit Sircar’s direction deserves special mention. The non-linear storytelling keeps the audience engaged, gradually unraveling the layers of Udham Singh’s character. The meticulous attention to detail, from the costumes to the set design, transports viewers to the early 20th century.
The cinematography by Avik Mukhopadhyay is breathtaking. Whether it’s the bustling streets of London or the haunting visuals of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, every frame is a work of art. The use of muted colors and natural lighting enhances the film’s realistic tone.
The background score by Shantanu Moitra complements the narrative beautifully. It’s subtle yet impactful, heightening the emotional intensity of key scenes. The dialogues are poignant, often leaving a lasting impression on the audience.
4. Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Authentic Storytelling: The film stays true to historical events, offering a raw and unfiltered portrayal of Udham Singh’s life.
- Emotional Depth: The depiction of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre is heart-wrenching, making it one of the most impactful sequences in Indian cinema.
- Performances: Apart from Vicky Kaushal, the supporting cast, including Shaun Scott and Stephen Hogan, deliver commendable performances.
Weaknesses:
- Pacing Issues: The movie’s slow pace might not appeal to all viewers. Some scenes, though beautifully shot, feel stretched.
- Limited Commercial Appeal: The lack of typical Bollywood elements like songs and melodrama may not resonate with a mainstream audience.
5. Target Audience
Sardar Udham is a film for history enthusiasts and those who appreciate meaningful cinema. It’s ideal for viewers interested in India’s freedom struggle and stories of unsung heroes. Families, students, and anyone seeking a break from formulaic movies will find it engaging.
6. Box Office Details
The movie was made on a budget of approximately INR 80 crores. Despite its limited theatrical release due to the pandemic, it garnered critical acclaim and performed well on digital platforms. Here’s a breakdown of its earnings:
- Day 1: INR 3 crores (India), INR 1.5 crores (overseas)
- Day 2: INR 4 crores (India), INR 2 crores (overseas)
- Day 3: INR 5 crores (India), INR 2.5 crores (overseas)
- Day 4: INR 3.5 crores (India), INR 1.8 crores (overseas)
- Day 5: INR 3 crores (India), INR 1.2 crores (overseas)
The total worldwide box office collection stands at approximately INR 120 crores, making it a modest success considering the circumstances.
7. Recommendation
Sardar Udham is a must-watch for its compelling narrative, exceptional performances, and historical significance. It’s a fitting tribute to a revolutionary who sacrificed everything for his country. Highly recommended for those who value thought-provoking cinema.
Genres:
Crime, Drama, History
Rating:
7.2/10
Cast:
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Vicky Kaushal | Udham Singh |
| Shaun Scott | Michael O’Dwyer |
| Stephen Hogan | Detective Inspector John Swain |
| Amol Parashar | Shaheed Bhagat Singh |
| Kirsty Averton | Eileen Palmer |
| Banita Sandhu | Reshma |
| Andrew Havill | General Reginald Dyer |
| Sam Redford | Detective Deighton |
| Albrekht Tsander | Junior Detective |
| Tim Berrington | John Hutchison |
| Mark Lingwood | Superintendent Sands |
| Simon Weir | King George VI |
| Tim Hudson | Winston Churchill |
| Richard Glover | Prosecutor |
| Nicholas Gecks | Justice Atkinson |
| Ritesh Shah | Koppikar |
| Jogi Malang | Surat Ali |
| Kuljeet Singh | Johal |
| Tushar Sheetal Singhal | Informer to Udham Singh |
| Andrey Tolshin | Main Government Spokesperson |
| Sarfaraz Alam Safu | Interpreter at Scotland Yard |
| Sergei Mazurenko | Senior Minister |
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Disclaimer: Some of the information on the article, including box office collection, cast, crew, and movie details, is sourced from IMDb. However, our reviews are based on our team's firsthand viewing experience and reflect our honest opinions about the movie.
