The movie presents a compact version of the life of India’s most charismatic military General, Sam Manekshaw. It is the story of how Corporal Sam Bahadur (Vicky Kaushal) became the Field Marshal of the Indian Army. The movie covers more than four decades of the career of the master strategist, known for his optimism, confidence, wit, and grit. It highlights his relationships be it with his wife, Silo Manekshaw (Sanya Malhotra), or his friendship with Yaya Khan (Mohamad Zeeshan Ayub).
The movie also brings to the fore the no-nonsense attitude of the general while dealing with political stalwarts during his career. From Jawaharlal Nehru (Neeraj Kabi) to Vallabhai Patel (Govind Namdeo) to Indira Gandhi (Fatima Sana Shaikh) and Yashwantrao Chavan (Aanjjan Shrivastav), the general never shies away from speaking his mind.
Plot of Sam Bahadur
Sam Bahadur is an attempt by Meghna Gulzar to present the life and achievements of India’s most glorious soldier and general on the big screen. Sadly, the film is not as glorious as it could have been, although it is well-researched and well-written. Its biggest flaw is that the movie jumps from one era to another without creating any connectivity. The audience does not feel emotionally connected to the life story of one of the most talked-about soldiers of India.
Role Plays in Sam Bahadur
Vicky Kaushal is undoubtedly the heart of the movie having played the role of Sam Manekshaw to the hilt. Similarly, Sanya Malhotra, Neeraj Kabi, and Govind Namdeo have also played their parts with great conviction. Sana Shaikh, who plays the role of Indira Gandhi, does not come across as strong-willed and confident as the politician was in real life.
Music, Script and Direction – Sam Bahadur
The music does not match the theme and is generally too loud and unimpressive. The script is well-written and well-shot but this is not enough to make up for the cold implementation. The movie looks more like an inept lesson in history than the narration of the boisterous and colossal life of Sam Manekshaw. While the movie offers the right dose of patriotism, it fails to help the audiences feel even an iota of the love and dedication that Sam Manekshaw held for his country.
Final Verdict – Sam Bahadur
Despite its flaws, Sam Bahadur is a movie worth watching for the brilliant acting skills of Vicky Kaushal. His presentation of the revered soldier on screen is truly exceptional and we at India Café 24 give Sam Bahadur 3 stars.
Field Marshan Sam Maneckshaw is a very inspiring and legendary figure of our times. This biopic about him seems to be really good, going by the promos. Hoping to watch it soon.
I am not a big fan of movies, however, I like watching BIOPIC, I feel Vicky did a justified role portraying “Maneckshaw”. Biopics are something that unveils legendary personnel insights. I like Sanya’s acting too, I will binge-watch this weekend. Your blog is spoiler free too 🙂
Oh I so wanna watch this but don’t have time , your review is making me even more impatient
Great description without giving spoilers
Thank you for sharing this
Sam Bahadur is a good movie.Vicky Kaushal, Sanya Malhotra, Mohamad Zeeshan Ayub, Fatima Sana Shaikh, Neeraj Kabi everyone’s performance is appreciable.Your review is very nice. Congratulations on choosing this movie. 🙏🙏
I assumed it to be at least a 4 star rayed movie. Because of the actors connected and moreover the related personality. But your honest review helps me to recover from my broken expectations. And the words, “worth watching” are relieving.
I absolutely loved this movie and Vicky Kaushal did a fine job. Unfortunately, it was hyped as a war story and some critics called it a documentary both of which it was not. It was a biopic and should have got an honest review of that, but personally, I loved it and can watch it again many times.
Field Marshan Sam Maneckshaw is a very inspiring and legendary figure of our times. This biopic about him seems to be really good, going by the promos. Hoping to watch it soon.
This movie is so well made and hats off to the cast of the movie. Vicky Kaushal is perfect choice for the character!!
I am not a big fan of movies, however, I like watching BIOPIC, I feel Vicky did a justified role portraying “Maneckshaw”. Biopics are something that unveils legendary personnel insights. I like Sanya’s acting too, I will binge-watch this weekend. Your blog is spoiler free too 🙂
Oh I so wanna watch this but don’t have time , your review is making me even more impatient
Great description without giving spoilers
Thank you for sharing this
Sam Bahadur is a good movie.Vicky Kaushal, Sanya Malhotra, Mohamad Zeeshan Ayub, Fatima Sana Shaikh, Neeraj Kabi everyone’s performance is appreciable.Your review is very nice. Congratulations on choosing this movie. 🙏🙏
I assumed it to be at least a 4 star rayed movie. Because of the actors connected and moreover the related personality. But your honest review helps me to recover from my broken expectations. And the words, “worth watching” are relieving.
I absolutely loved this movie and Vicky Kaushal did a fine job. Unfortunately, it was hyped as a war story and some critics called it a documentary both of which it was not. It was a biopic and should have got an honest review of that, but personally, I loved it and can watch it again many times.
I’m in love with the vicky kaushal’s acting. this is the best movie i’ve watched
This makes the movie not just a war epic but a compelling study in leadership that transcends the military context.