The Black Prince

Best understood if you already know something about British History in the Punjab or are of Punjabi origin. That should not detract other interested viewers. The Raj is not portrayed in a great light and this has triggered some knee-jerk reaction in the content of some professional reviews and press elsewhere. However rather than use this to create divide or animosity over historic events, it is testament to the good morals and integrity of the majority of Sikhs who have embraced the UK as their home and positively contributed so much to modern day Britain as well as the sacrifices made during two world wars. They have managed to overlook the earlier battles against the British before Punjab was annexed and this defining period in history where Sikh rule and the Kingdom of Punjab was effectively and abruptly brought to an end. The story of Maharaja Duleep Singh (The Black Prince) whilst tragic for a lost individual and wandering soul could be marginalized by observing his obvious flaws and flamboyant lifestyle. However, realizing that his life was largely out of his control from the tender age of 5 years, his shortcomings should be forgiven to realize the true tragedy lies in the loss of direction for his people and the demise of the grand Kingdom his father (Maharaja Ranjit Singh) justly ruled.

I was quite excited to see this film. India is a great nation with a rich and vast history. The premise and title showed it could be a great historical film. Sadly I was left rather disappointed. A number of things could have been tweaked or changed which makes this a missed opportunity.

For most of this film it was somewhat hard to follow what was going on in some parts. We can understand the premise but the background that led to his exile and how he lost everything was loosely depicted. One could not follow exactly what was happening and I had to look up Wikipedia for information. Certain historical figures could have been used more such as Queen Victoria. This film never felt too coherent and quite disjointed, it recklessly jumped from scene to scene. With such great subject matter its a shame such a good story was badly told.

Another thing I feel to mention is the lack of compassion I feel for the main character and historical figure. It is undeniable that India was under brutal and horrid British rule but did this Prince really get the short end of the straw? He was treated as royalty in England, captured the Queen's attention and lived in luxury for his young adult life. He also could have any woman he chooses. Life is not always fair but you make do with the hand you are dealt and the hand Duleep Singh was dealt was not so bad and he could make the best of his situation rather than completely turn his back on those who cared for him. Based purely on the film and information available online perhaps Duleep experienced so much loss in his adult life because he did not appreciate what he already had. Important to note that as an Indian he was treated with great respect and affection on British soil unlike Indians on Indian soil, it was his choice to denounce his new family. As Queen Victoria said there is no government built on truth. Nevertheless it could have been a great film but sadly lacked coherence and acute direction.

6/10

10/10 story nice depicted, A must watch

The last Sikh prince of Punjab is placed on the throne at five, but when India is annexed to the British, he is sent to England and never allowed to return to his home.

THE TRUE STORY OF MAHARAJAH DULEEP SINGH.

About 70-75% of Sikhs/Punjabis are really unaware of this part of our history. The movie is based on true story and facts about 'Maharaja Duleep Singh', who was exiled to Britain. His relation with Queen Victoria and his mom 'Jind Kaur' and his fight to get his kingdom back from Britishers is beautifully explained.

It is not only about Sikhs or Punjabis, It is for all who tried hard or fought for their pride and rights.

I was greatly looking forward to seeing this film about one of the most important periods in Sikh history. However I left the cinema feeling very disappointed. The producer and director missed a unique opportunity to portray events properly. For starters, Duleep Singh was portrayed as a morose, colourless, depressed person. There was no spark at all. Queen Victoria did not look remotely like the actual person. The other actors were no better than any school amateur drama group. Many of the events in the film were not shown to their natural conclusions. For example, what happened to the Sikhs being herded in the jail? It's no point writing out in the end that so many were hanged etc. No, I am not looking for gory scenes, but, there are dignified and thoughtful ways of showing such events. I came to see a film not read a book! His exile in Scotland where he got the nickname of the Black Prince, was not shown. Scenes have been put together like a drunk attempting a jigsaw puzzle. The only character who gave a good and realistic performance was Shabana Azmi as the Prince's mother. But it still was not enough to save the film. Don't waste your time and money on this film. See something else.