This piece was written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the labour of the writers and actors currently on strike, the movie being covered here wouldn't exist.
After a near 5-year hiatus, Shah Rukh Khan returned with a bang earlier this year with Pathaan – smashing box office records and introducing us to his new action-hero persona. Khan's latest release, Jawan (Soldier), continues to build on his newfound on-screen image but also showcases everything fans have loved about the superstar, who plays various characters in this all-out “Masala” entertainer. Director Atlee Kumar, who is known for his work in South Indian films, brings his lavish and in-your-face style of cinema while blending it with powerful real-world themes that hit home – making this more than just your standard Bollywood spectacle, but a film that earns your whistles and applause with genuine emotion pulsating through every punch, song, and catchy dialogue.
Atlee's film tells the tale of a man (Khan) who is driven by his past and looks to rectify the wrongs in society with the help of his female army. It doesn't take long for Jawan to hook audiences, as we are immediately thrust into a heroic introduction for our protagonist, who, all bandaged up, rises like a God and leaps in the air with lightning in the background to take down numerous villains. If the opening was the style, the next scene was the substance as we later see Khan (in a slightly different portrayal) hijack a train, showcasing a villainous intensity and cheek, before slipping into a genuine heartfelt speech – interjecting the scene with a heavy dose of emotion – outlining his character's motivations against the Machiavellian powers that be in India. In the opening 30 minutes, the film casts a magical spell on us, and before we know it, our energy to tap and whistle to the electric “Zinda Banda” song, which Khan oozes cool in, is tenfold.
If one wasn't aware from watching the trailer, the first few scenes in Jawan let audiences know that this is an event film featuring everything and anything. From a superstar leading man, large action set pieces, big musical numbers, romance, and powerful themes that relate to audiences far and wide. All of these ingredients are brilliant and essential to Atlee's film, but what makes this “Masala” entertainer a near-perfect one is the beautiful way the societal issues are woven into the captivating narrative. There is no better example of this than Khan's potent climactic monologue when he points the finger at us, highlighting the importance of people putting an end to pointing fingers at others and thinking about their own actions and thoughts when voting for the people who rule the country. Considering the state of India in 2023 – the message felt all the more impactful coming from its Muslim superstar.
Alongside the wonderful action, songs, and plot twists, Jawan is full of strong performances. Whether it's the wonderfully presented females, spearheaded by leading lady Nayanthara, Deepika Padukone in a small yet pivotal guest appearance, or Vijay Sethupathi, who plays the film's villain Kaalie, everyone delivers. Of course, the standout performer is none other than Shah Rukh Khan himself. Unlike Pathaan, King Khan does not just coast on his natural charisma. He shows his range, classic lover-boy charm, and a new rugged toughness reminiscent of Hugh Jackman's Logan – a portrayal his fans will welcome more of. Khan doesn't put a foot wrong, and his superstar aura takes every aspect of this film to another level. It's 2 hours and 45 minutes of Shah Rukh Khan Heaven.
Atlee, and the South Indian style of filmmaking in general, is not shy about his desire for very grand and loud stories, which is evident by having the leading man's nickname (King Khan) in the film's main theme. It's fair to say Atlee's latest may have a tendency to be too implausible at times, and the in-your-face nature of it could be a tad much for some. But one should arguably expect these elements when venturing into the cinema to watch such a Bollywood bonanza.
Overall, Jawan proves to be a truly thrilling experience that's so entertaining and meaningful – it will bring tears to the eyes of audiences and die-hard Shah Rukh Khan fans, not only because of the film's emotionally charged content but because of how expertly Khan has been portrayed. After so long, Khan's finally given the perfect platform to do what he does best: entertain and win hearts. Actor John Abraham said it best: Shah Rukh Khan is an emotion, and Jawan exemplifies that.
Jawan is now playing in cinemas