Uri: The Surgical Strike is a gripping action-packed drama that brings to light the valor of the Indian military in the face of terror. Directed by Aditya Dhar, this 2019 film is a military thriller based on true events, specifically the 2016 surgical strikes carried out by the Indian Army against terrorist launch pads across the Line of Control (LoC) in Pakistan. Starring Vicky Kaushal in the lead role, the movie explores the patriotism, grit, and determination of the Indian soldiers. With a release date of January 11, 2019, Uri quickly became a national sensation, drawing attention for its realistic portrayal of military operations and its emotional intensity. This film offers a thrilling cinematic experience that captures the spirit of modern-day warfare.
Plot Summary
Uri: The Surgical Strike begins with a terrorist attack on an Indian army base in Uri, Jammu and Kashmir, which results in the loss of several Indian soldiers. This attack sets the stage for the Indian government to take decisive action. In retaliation, the Indian Army, led by Major Vihaan Singh Shergill (Vicky Kaushal), launches a covert operation across the LoC to neutralize the terrorist threat. The film follows Major Vihaan and his team as they prepare for and execute the surgical strike, with each moment filled with tension and suspense. As the mission unfolds, the stakes grow higher, and the soldiers must navigate the dangers of enemy territory while ensuring the success of the operation. The plot is driven by themes of patriotism, sacrifice, and the courage of those who serve the nation.
What’s Good?
One of the strongest aspects of Uri: The Surgical Strike is its direction. Aditya Dhar does a remarkable job of blending realistic military action with emotional storytelling. The film doesn’t just focus on the action sequences but also delves into the psychological and emotional turmoil of the soldiers, which makes the movie more relatable and impactful. The screenplay is tight, and the pacing is perfect, ensuring that the audience remains engaged throughout the film.
Vicky Kaushal’s performance is another standout feature of the movie. His portrayal of Major Vihaan is intense and convincing. He brings a sense of authenticity to the role, making the audience feel the weight of the responsibility his character carries. His dialogue delivery, especially the famous “How’s the Josh?” line, became an iconic moment in Indian cinema, and Kaushal’s dedication to the role is evident in every frame.
The cinematography in Uri is also exceptional. The film uses a lot of close-up shots and handheld camera work to give the audience a sense of being right in the middle of the action. The visuals of the rugged terrains and the intense battle scenes are well-executed, adding to the realism of the film. The action sequences, choreographed by a team of experts, are intense and thrilling, making the audience feel the adrenaline rush of the operation.
The background score, composed by Shashwat Sachdev, is another highlight. The music complements the intense mood of the film, especially during the action sequences, where the score heightens the tension. The song “Uri” became a motivational anthem, further boosting the emotional depth of the film.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Uri: The Surgical Strike excels in many areas, particularly in its portrayal of military operations. The film stays true to the essence of the surgical strike, showcasing the meticulous planning and execution involved. The performances, especially by Vicky Kaushal, are outstanding, making the characters feel real and relatable. The film also benefits from its tight screenplay, which keeps the audience on the edge of their seats.
However, there are a few areas where the film could have been better. Some critics argue that the film oversimplifies the complexities of military operations and diplomacy, making it feel a bit one-dimensional at times. While the action sequences are well-executed, they might feel exaggerated to some viewers, especially those expecting a more grounded portrayal of real-life events. Additionally, the film’s focus on patriotism and nationalism, while powerful, might not resonate with all audiences, particularly those who prefer more nuanced political narratives.
Target Audience
Uri: The Surgical Strike will appeal to a wide range of viewers, particularly those who enjoy military thrillers, action-packed dramas, and films based on true events. Fans of Vicky Kaushal will appreciate his intense performance, while action lovers will be drawn to the well-executed battle scenes. The movie’s patriotic themes will resonate with Indian audiences, especially those who take pride in the country’s military achievements. However, viewers who prefer lighter, more comedic films might not find Uri to their taste.
Box Office Details
Uri: The Surgical Strike was a massive commercial success, both in India and overseas. The film had a production budget of approximately ₹25 crore (INR), which is considered relatively modest for a film of its scale. However, the movie’s success at the box office far exceeded expectations.
The worldwide box office collection for Uri stands at around ₹342 crore (INR), making it one of the highest-grossing films of 2019. The film performed exceptionally well in India, where it grossed ₹245 crore (INR). The overseas collections also contributed significantly to its success, with the film earning approximately ₹45 crore (INR) from international markets.
In its first five days of release, Uri saw impressive earnings at the box office. On Day 1, the film earned ₹8.20 crore (INR) in India. By Day 2, the earnings had increased to ₹12.43 crore (INR), with the film gaining more traction. Day 3 saw a significant jump, with ₹15.10 crore (INR) in earnings. On Day 4, the film earned ₹18.50 crore (INR), and by Day 5, the earnings reached ₹20.40 crore (INR). These numbers reflect the growing popularity of the film, which continued to perform well in subsequent weeks.
Recommendation
In conclusion, Uri: The Surgical Strike is a well-crafted, emotionally charged film that captures the bravery and sacrifices of the Indian Army. The movie’s gripping storyline, combined with stellar performances and realistic action sequences, makes it a must-watch for anyone who enjoys intense, patriotic dramas. Highly recommended for fans of action films and those interested in stories of military valor.
Table of Contents
Genres:
Action, Drama, War
Rating:
7/10
Cast:
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| Vicky Kaushal | Major Vihan Singh Shergill |
| Paresh Rawal | Ajit Doval |
| Yami Gautam | Pallavi Sharma / Jasmine |
| Kirti Kulhari | Seerat |
| Mohit Raina | Major Karan Kashyap |
| Dhairya Karwa | Captain Sartaj Singh Chandok |
| Rajit Kapoor | Prime Minister Of India |
| Ivan Rodrigues | Brian D’souza |
| Manasi Parekh | Neha Kashyap |
| Swaroop Sampat | Vihaan’s Mother |
| Shishir Sharma | General Arjun |
| Satyajit Sharma | Colonel |
| Raj Babbar | Pak Official |
| Manish Chaudhary | Asma’s Husband |
| Abrar Zahoor | Idris |
| Rakesh Bedi | Senior Pakistani Intelligence Official |
| Ujjwal Chopra | Indian Intelligence Agent Stationed in Pakistan |
| Riva Arora | Suhani Kashyap |
| Yogesh Soman | Ravindra Agnihotri |
| Akashdeep Arora | Ishaan |
| Adarsh Gautam | Major Lateef |
| Manish Sharma | Pradeep |
| Aritro Rudraneil Banerjee | Faizal |
| Navtej Hundal | Home Minister Of India |
| Rukhsar Rehman | Aasma (Indian Agent in Pakistan) |
| Ajit Shidhaye | Zubair (Pakistani Army Officer) |
| Vitor Campos Miguel Neves | Hari |
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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.
