Maidaan

A football biopic of a inspiring football coach who is determined to bring footballing glory for the country. Though movie start is sluggish makes little impatient to watch but builds up slow and steadily to end on a perfect emotional note.

The initial build up helps to understand state of football in country, politics in the sport ( ever present in any sporting association of the country), lack of basic kits ( players representing country barefooted) and internal battles and fighting with the system. What makes movie watchable is the overall winning spirit its packs in latter half of the movie and the match sequence- the emotions, thrills and jitters that it brings quite same as watching the match live on TV. The end is highly sentimental which stays to ignite the sporting fervour and cheer up for the Country.

"Maidaan" isn't just a film; it's a cinematic triumph that pulsates with the heartbeat of Indian football's golden era. At its core, it's a testament to the indomitable spirit of champions and a celebration of the visionary who shaped their destiny. Ajay Devgn's portrayal of Syed Abdul Rahim is nothing short of mesmerizing, a portrayal that transcends mere acting to embody the essence of a man driven by passion, resilience, and an unyielding belief in his team's potential.

Devgn's performance as Rahim is a revelation, capturing the essence of a man whose quiet strength and strategic brilliance propelled Indian football onto the world stage. With every nuanced expression, he breathes life into Rahim's unwavering conviction and unwavering dedication to his players, making it arguably his career-best performance in over three decades of cinematic brilliance.

"Maidaan" isn't just about victories on the field; it's a deeply human story that delves into the complexities of ambition, integrity, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Through Devgn's portrayal, we witness Rahim's battles not only against formidable opponents but also against the corrosive forces of corruption and cynicism. His portrayal is a masterclass in character study, highlighting the depth and complexity of a man driven by a singular vision.

Director Amit Ravindernath Sharma's deft hand ensures that every frame pulsates with the energy and emotion of the era, transporting audiences to a time when football was more than just a game-it was a beacon of hope and unity. The film's breathtaking cinematography and AR Rahman's soul-stirring score further elevate the viewing experience, immersing audiences in the raw intensity of the matches and the quiet moments of triumph and despair.

But at its heart, "Maidaan" is Ajay Devgn's triumph. His portrayal of Syed Abdul Rahim is not just a performance; it's a revelation-a reminder of the transformative power of cinema to illuminate the human spirit. Through his portrayal, Devgn honors not only Rahim's legacy but also the countless unsung heroes who paved the way for Indian football's ascent. So, do yourself a favor and witness this cinematic masterpiece unfold on the big screen. You'll leave the theater not just exhilarated by the game's glory but also enriched by the journey of a man who dared to dream against all odds.

I saw this last nite with my wife in Gaiety theatre Bandra n I loved the movie.

There are no surprises here, what with it being based on a true story, but even if you're unfamiliar with what really happened, as I was, then u will be rejoiced to learn some astonishing facts about our football team under the guidance of Mr Abdul Rahim.

Thankfully, Maidaan never takes its pedigree for granted, and delivers the goods largely by focusing on the roots of the victory instead of the cheap emotional payoff that other sports films are so obsessed with.

Maidaan plays as a stellar reenactment of our amazing victory and it's elevated considerably by the always fantastic Devgn who got into the role of that of Abdul Rahim, the coach known as the architect of modern Indian football.

Abdul Rahim is considered to be the greatest coach India has ever produced.

His tenure is considered as a "Golden age" of Indian football.

Outstanding stuff... was eagerly waiting for this.. be it direction, acting, music, screenplay, cinematography ... outstanding in all departments. It starts slow but gradually grows on you.. and reaches the pinnacle by the time it ends. Selection of support cast is faultless. Every player character looks real and a professional footballer.. Gajraj Rao has this uncanny habit of surpassing himself with each outing.. Priyamani has brought her character of wife to life.. finally Ajay Devgan... will be surprised if he misses on national award for this. Rehman is at his best. Music takes this fare to different level.. and Amit R Sharma. Take a bow. Each scene is so well crafted, it looks like poetry in motion. Expectations set with Badhai Ho have been surpassed... go watch it.

Ajay Devgn scores a tour-de-force performance in Maidaan, the inspiring biographical drama about Syed Abdul Rahim, the unsung hero who defied all odds to revive Indian football in the 1950s and 60s.

As the fiercely determined coach, Devgn is a force of nature, rallying his rag-tag team to overcome lack of funds, facilities and support through sheer willpower. The young actors portraying the players match Devgn's intensity with wonderfully naturalistic acting.

Director Amit Sharma transports viewers to that era through lush period details and deftly balances the personal drama with exhilarating, innovatively-shot match sequences. The climactic 1962 Asian Games final is a genuine goosebump-raising triumph.

But the soul of Maidaan lies in its simplicity and understated tone in depicting Abdul Rahim's against-all-odds journey. In the pantheon of Bollywood sports biopics, it's a winning underdog story that raises a deserving champion. An entertaining, uplifting must-watch!