Maidaan

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!

Maidaan (2024) - 100%

An Incredible Experience Created By The Trio Of Ajay Devgn, Amit Ravindernath Sharma & A. R. Rahman... Sports Drama Is A Popular Genre In India, But Very Few Movies Belonging To It Have Been Successful In Leaving An Impact On Audience's Minds... Some Notable Ones Are - Chak De India, Bhaag Milkha Bhaag, MS Dhoni & Dangal... Talking About "Maidaan", I'll Say That It Easily Joins The Honorable Mentions & Will Gain Cult Status In Coming Years... If You Are Planning To Watch Any Film Right Now, Book Tickets For This One & Witness The Golden Era Of Indian Football & Inspirational Journey Of 'Syed Abdul Rahim' Who Lived & Died For The Game... DON'T MISS THIS ONE!

Maidaan is a riveting sports drama that brings to light the untold story of Syed Abdul Rahim, the man behind India's triumph at the Asian Games. Director Amit Sharma masterfully guides the audience through the world of football in India during the 1950s and 1960s. The cinematography and AR Rahman's evocative background score add to the overall charm of the movie.

While the movie starts at a slightly leisurely pace, it quickly picks up momentum as we delve into the game strategies and discussions between Syed and the Football committee. Although the film's runtime could have been shortened, it is essential for the comprehensive build-up and understanding of the football scenario in India back then. The second half is an exciting ride, with the last 45 minutes being particularly captivating and elevating the film to new heights. The football match sequences are undoubtedly the best part of the film, and they are executed with precision and excitement.

Ajay Devgn delivers an outstanding, award-worthy performance as Syed Abdul Rahim, capturing the essence of the character with ease. Priyamani was decent. Gajraj Rao also impresses with his portrayal of the supporting character. The young actors playing the football players, including Chaitanya Sharma, Amartya Ray, Tejas Ravishankar, Aaman Munshi, and Davinder Gill, among others, deliver remarkable performances that bring authenticity to the film. The movie concludes on a high note of sentimentality, with the end credit scenes featuring the real-life players adding an emotional touch to the narrative.

Direction 4/5 Acting 4.5/5 Editing 3.5/5 Story 4/5 Screenplay 4/5.

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.

Besides 2 unnecessary songs the USP of this excellent movie was its almost flawless editing. Although the movie was 3hrs 1 minute long,i never never felt bored(except for the 2 unwanted songs)as it was always very interesting and captivating throughout. Although his role was not a challenging one at all,Ajay Devgn is always extremely convincing in these types of roles unlike comic roles where he's a total failure. Gajraj Rao's average acting was overshadowed by his ridiculous hairpiece which made him look like an absolute clown. The rest of the junior cast were average while all of the footballers were very convincing in playing their parts This true story was very well scripted and the screenplay and direction were absolutely brilliant 9/10. One of the best movies of 2024!