Many films have been made on the India-Pakistan rivalry and sensitive topics like Kashmir, but the recently released film 'Sarzameen' on Jio Cinema/Hotstar presents this familiar story with a new freshness.
- Film: Sarzameen
- Platform: Disney+ Hotstar
- Director: Kayoze Irani
- Writer: Ayush Sony
- Main Cast: Prithviraj Sukumaran, Kajol, Ibrahim Ali Khan, Mihir Ahuja
- Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
Entertainment: We have seen many films focused on the complex political and military situation between India and Pakistan, whether they are war-based or stories related to Kashmir. But 'Sarzameen' is slightly different from those stories because it is not just a patriotic film, but also has a deep family emotional layer attached to it.
Made under Karan Johar's Dharma Productions banner and released on Disney+ Hotstar, this film is the story of a father and son who are trapped between country, family, and personal relationships. The film is directed by Kayoze Irani, and the story is written by Ayush Sony.
Story Summary
The story of 'Sarzameen' is centered on Colonel Vijay Menon (Prithviraj Sukumaran), who is a true patriot and lives in Kashmir with his family—wife Meher Menon (Kajol) and son Harman Menon (Ibrahim Ali Khan). Harman is a young boy whose life seems normal, but the enemy sitting across the border has a bad eye on him.
They put such pressure on Vijay Menon that it brings him to the brink of an impossible decision. Amidst this tension, the family begins to fall apart, relationships are tested, and a secret is revealed that completely changes the story.
Highlights of the Film
- Emotional Depth: 'Sarzameen' is not just a patriotic film; it is an emotional drama that shows the depth of father-son, mother-son, and husband-wife relationships. The depiction of family bonding in the film connects with the audience emotionally.
- Story Pace and Twists: The pace of the film is balanced. Nowhere does the story seem stretched or boring. There is a twist at the end that surprises the audience and deepens the impact of the film.
- New Perspective on Patriotism: The film has portrayed the sensitive issue of India-Pak tension and Kashmir with maturity. It is neither too dramatic nor one-sided. The film's message is that sacrifice for the country can be given even at a personal cost.
Acting Performance
Prithviraj Sukumaran has breathed life into the character of Colonel Vijay Menon. The firmness of his face and the sensitivity of his eyes add depth to the character. Kajol once again impresses with her powerful performance. Her acting in the climax is especially memorable. Ibrahim Ali Khan has shown improvement in his acting in 'Sarzameen'.
After 'Nadaanian', he had to face a lot of criticism, but he looks much better in this film. Mihir Ahuja has also been impressive in his supporting role.
Technical Aspects
- Cinematography: The visuals of the film are full of beauty and emotions, especially the scenes shot in the valleys of Kashmir are effective.
- Background Music (BGM): The background score of the film is tremendous and enhances the emotional scenes.
- Songs: The music matches the story and deepens the emotions without stopping the pace of the story.
Ayush Sony's script has a great blend of patriotism and family emotions. At the same time, Kayoze Irani's direction is mature, especially his grip is clearly visible in the climax and emotional scenes.
