Anupama Chopra reviews Chhaava, Laxman Utekar's ambitious historical drama featuring Vicky Kaushal as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. The film's final act stands out, where Utekar skillfully blends brutality with patriotism and poetry, delivering a sequence that is both rousing and repulsive. Kaushal's portrayal captures the resilience and defiance of the Maratha king, especially during his confrontation with Aurangzeb, played by Akshaye Khanna. Khanna embodies a man consumed by cruelty, appearing almost haunted by his own actions.
However, the film's first half suffers from slow pacing and underdeveloped characters, with dialogues that often feel more like proclamations than conversations. Despite these shortcomings, Chhaava is elevated by its powerful performances and a climactic sequence that leaves a lasting impact. The film's ambition is evident, but it could have benefited from more nuanced storytelling throughout.
