Mumbai cinema takes to the skies once again with its latest offering, 'Yodha,' an aerial action film that impresses with its stunts but falls short with a predictable script and underdeveloped characters.
Yodha: A Turbulent Flight into Aerial Action
( Credit to: Thehindu )
Mumbai cinema takes to the skies once again with its latest offering, 'Yodha,' an aerial action film that impresses with its stunts but falls short with a predictable script and underdeveloped characters.
Impressive Aerial Stunts, Lacking Script
'Yodha' revolves around a hero in uniform defying commands to take on rogue elements threatening the India-Pakistan peace process. While the combat scenes in the skies captivate the audience, the script fails to deliver with its predictable storyline and formulaic characters.
The film attempts to introduce strong female characters for gender parity, but their presence feels forced and lacks depth. Furthermore, the filmmakers take creative liberties in depicting the pre-2014 era's political leadership, detracting from the overall narrative.
Sidharth Malhotra's Convincing Performance
Sidharth Malhotra delivers a commendable performance, showcasing his screen presence, booming voice, and agility. His portrayal of a young action hero with a sense of purpose is convincing. However, even his charisma and Rashii Khanna's attempt to add sincerity to her stock character cannot elevate the script, which reads more like an airplane handbook.
Highlighting Aerial Combat Scenes
The film's combat scenes in the skies are the highlight, managing to captivate the audience with their impressive choreography. The physical punches land well, but the emotional depth is lacking. Unfortunately, the element of surprise, crucial for engaging the audience, falls flat, failing to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
While the aerial exercise of 'Yodha' may be better suited for an OTT platform, where seating position doesn't matter, the lack of intrigue and emotional investment hinders its impact on the big screen.
Underdeveloped Characters and Predictable Storyline
Sagar Ambre, who also penned the script, introduces a couple of interesting twists to the tale. However, the journey to these twists is not properly mapped, and the character of Disha Patani feels underdeveloped. Holding onto a secret should evoke some expression, but Patani's character remains largely expressionless until the big reveal, disconnecting viewers from the narrative.
The adrenaline-pumping action choreography fails to generate investment in the outcome, and the lack of emotional depth in the characters further hampers the overall impact of the film.
Conclusion: A Film with Potential, But Falls Short
In conclusion, 'Yodha' offers impressive aerial action sequences and a strong performance by Sidharth Malhotra. However, the film's script falls short, delivering a predictable storyline and underdeveloped characters. While the combat scenes in the skies provide moments of excitement, the emotional depth and element of surprise are lacking.
'Yodha' may find a better home on an OTT platform, where its flaws may be overlooked. With its impressive stunts and charismatic lead, the film has potential, but it ultimately fails to deliver a truly captivating and engaging experience.