By Harsh Singh Bindra
Pathaan storms onto the cinematic canvas with the intensity of an Abbas-Mastan film on steroids, delivering an exhilarating journey from beginning to end. While not flawless, especially in the editing department, this action-packed thriller fulfils its promise, marking it as Shah Rukh Khan’s one of the most engaging starrer in the last 10 years.
The Performances
The movie introduces a powerhouse performance from John Abraham, shining in a way never seen before and arguably stealing the spotlight. Dimple Kabadia’s portrayal emerges as the film’s standout, injecting depth and intensity into the narrative. Shah Rukh Khan, although impressively dynamic in action sequences, his character is not as richly devloped compared to his notable roles in *Raees* and, intriguingly, Hrithik Roshan in *War*. The underdeveloped character may be the culprit, hindering the full impact of Khan’s performance.
The Screenplay
The screenplay, marked by its extremely fast-paced nature, keeps the audience engaged but falls slightly short of complete immersion. The film’s pace is almost too rapid, leaving the audience yearning for a bit more time in each scene. The first half, in particular, could have benefited from an additional 20 minutes to allow for a more comprehensive setup.
While *Pathaan* had the potential to be great, it settles for being a good film that undoubtedly promises to create a storm at the box office.
The Spy Universe
In comparison, the film impressively stands alongside *Tiger Zinda Hai* and *War*, surpassing *Ek Tha Tiger*. The action-packed narrative, coupled with standout performances, solidifies its status as a cinematic force to be reckoned with. Brace yourselves for a thrilling experience, and don’t miss it in IMAX!
