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Movie Review: Film Samrat Prithviraj

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6th Jun, 2022

Dr Chandraprakash Dwivedi's latest historical drama Samrat Prithviraj is a well-known saga of a valiant king Prithviraj Chauhan. From the late 12th century era, Akshay Kumar-Manushi Chhillar film stays completely faithful to its specified intent.

About the story, this film is based on the life and heroism of the fearless and mighty Prithviraj Chauhan. Samrat Prithviraj is the story of a brave king. In the late 12th century, Prithviraj Chauhan (Akshay Kumar) is the king of Ajmer. He's known for his bravery and kindness. One day, Mir Hussein (Anshuman Singh) arrives at his doorstep and asks for his help. He is the brother of Mohammed Ghori (Manav Vij), the cruel king of Ghazni. Mir Hussein fell in love with Chitralekha (Radha Bhatt), the mistress of Mohammed Ghori and eloped with her. Mohammed Ghori now wants to kill Mir Hussein. Hence Mir Hussein asks for Prithviraj Chauhan's help. Prithviraj Chauhan decides to help him, even if that means facing Mohammed Ghori on the battlefield. The war takes place at Tarain where Prithviraj Chauhan emerges victorious. Mohammed Ghori is caught but Prithviraj Chauhan sets him free. Meanwhile, Prithviraj Chauhan falls in love with Sanyogita (Manushi Chhillar), the princess of Kannauj. She too falls for him though both have never met each other. However, they write letters and send gifts to each other and that's where love happens. Sanyogita's father, Jaichand (Ashutosh Rana) is jealous of Prithviraj Chauhan. He feels he's the rightful heir to the throne of Delhi. However, Prithviraj Chauhan is elected to sit on the throne. Jaichand then organizes a yagna and Sanyogita's swayamvar. The invitation is given to all the kings but not to Prithviraj Chauhan. Yet, Prithviraj Chauhan arrives at Kannauj and he elopes with Sanyogita. A humiliated Jaichand decides to seek revenge. He sends an invitation to Mohammed Ghori and asks him to help him defeat Prithviraj Chauhan. What occurs next forms the rest of the plot.

As pe the historical documets reference, it is based on Prithviraj Raso, written by Chand Vardai. The story is influential and inspiring. Dr Chandraprakash Dwivedi's screenplay is notable. He has integrated some very enjoyable and dramatic scenes. Dr Chandraprakash Dwivedi's dialogues are little feeble.

Dr Chandraprakash Dwivedi is also a filmmaker who knows how to dramatise situations. The two-and-a-half hours run-time of ‘Samrat Prithviraj’ is all high-pitched drama, row upon row of costumery in place, huge scale filling up the screen. Mohammad Ghori (Manav Vij) is the chief antagonist, and while he is not shown to be as much of an out-and-out monster. Well-known director Dr Chandraprakash Dwivedi's direction is satisfactory. He has handled the grandeur very well and a few scenes are created remarkably well. Film’s pace is OK but, in a few scenes, the story moves quite speedily.  

It begins on an exciting note. The entry of Akshay Kumar will leave you astonished. The first battle of Tarain is clap worthy. The movie then drops and picks up stunningly during the intermission point. The climax is really praise worthy.

Akshay Kumar looks relatively confident and his act in the Ghazni portions is notable. In the remaining scenes, his act is subdued yet impactful. Newbie Manushi Chhillar makes a lovely debut. She looks spectacular and delivers a good performance. Sonu Sood (Chand Vardai) is brilliant in a supporting role. Sanjay Dutt (Kaka) gets to play an exciting character but it turns out to be a caricature. Manav Vij is outstanding as the antagonist. Ashutosh Rana is reliable. Sakshi Tanwar (Jaichand’s wife)’s act is notable. Manoj Joshi leaves a mark in a cameo. Anshuman Singh and Radha Bhatt get a little chance to show their skills.

Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy's music is average. Also, there are far too many songs in the film. 'Hari Har' is the only song that stands out. It is quite catchy. 'Hadd Kar De' and 'Yoddha' have been shot very well. Balhara's background score has a filmic feel.

Manushnandan's cinematography is first-rate. Subrata Chakraborty and Amit Ray's production design is thorough and realistic. Franz Spillhaus and Parvez Sheikh's action is without any bloodletting and contributes to the entertainment factor. Sanjeev Rajsingh Parmar's costumes are royal and reliable. VFX effects are remarkable. Aarif Sheikh's editing is OK.

Overall, Akshay Kumar starrer Samrat Prithviraj is praiseworthy to watch once due to its entertainment quotient and capable star cast.