Brief Summary
This video reviews "Sitari Zaminpur," a Hindi film focusing on a basketball coach's journey with differently-abled children. The reviewer discusses the film's strengths, including its humor, cast performances, and heartwarming message, while also pointing out weaknesses such as underwhelming music and minor plot issues. The review balances pragmatic considerations for those familiar with the original film against the film's positive themes and representation.
- The film is a remake of the Spanish film "Champion" and is considered a spiritual sequel to "Taare Zameen Par."
- Strengths include genuine humor, strong cast performances, and a heartwarming transformation of the main character.
- Weaknesses include underwhelming music, minor unresolved subplots, and occasional over-the-top acting.
- The film is praised for celebrating and giving dignity to those who are often marginalized.
Intro
The reviewer introduces "Sitari Zaminpur" as one of the most heavily marketed Hindi films in recent years and questions whether the film's quality justifies the extensive promotion. Directed by RS Prasana, it is an official remake of the Spanish film "Champion," previously remade in English as "Champions" starring Woody Harrelson. The reviewer notes Amir Khan's tendency to go against trends, such as remaking a film after the negative reception of "Lal Singh Chaddha" and avoiding the currently popular action genre. Despite the marketing, the film is receiving a subdued response, relying on positive word-of-mouth, and is considered a spiritual sequel to "Taare Zameen Par" due to its focus on differently-abled children.
Plot Overview
The film centers on Gulchan, played by Amir Khan, an assistant basketball coach with a drinking problem and a confrontational attitude. After an altercation, he is assigned to coach differently-abled children as a form of community service. The plot follows Gulchan's struggles to connect with his new team, his efforts to prepare them for a basketball tournament, and his personal growth as he embraces them as his family.
Underwhelming Music
The reviewer contrasts the film's music with that of "Taare Zameen Par," noting that while both albums were composed by Shankar Hassan Loy, "Sitari Zaminpur" lacks the emotional depth and soul of its predecessor. While "Taare Zameen Par" had memorable tracks that evoked strong emotions, the music in "Sitari Zaminpur" fails to create a similar impact. The reviewer appreciates the song "Sirf Ankhon Se," sung by Arijit Singh and Shivira Parolkar, for its insight into Gulchan's personal struggles. The children's songs are fun but don't significantly enhance the film's theme.
Minute Hiccups
The reviewer points out a few minor issues with the film. The resolution of the rocky relationship between Gulchan and Sunita feels incomplete. A comedic sequence involving Amir and Janilia role-playing for funds is considered silly and unfunny. Additionally, Gulchan's epiphany, when observing his team, could have been conveyed through subtle expressions rather than explicit descriptions.
The Good: Genuinely Funny
"Sitari Zaminpur" is praised for its effective and wholesome comedy, which avoids double-meaning dialogues and profanity. The adjustment period of Gulchan with the team leads to several humorous moments. Characters like Sunil, played by Ashish Pensei, contribute to the film's funniest and most profound scenes. The team's literal interpretation of instructions and Gulchan's resulting frustration provide great laughs. The comedy extends beyond the team to include Gulchan's mother and their cook, adding to the film's charm.
The Cast
The reviewer commends the performances of the entire cast. Dolly Aluwalia is excellent as Gulchan's mother, and Janelia Deshmukh is praised for her natural charm. Gural Singh provides moments of self-analysis for Gulchan. The children are the stars of the show, each with a distinct personality, and they appear to be genuinely enjoying themselves on set. Amir Khan's portrayal of Gulchan is initially criticized for being exaggerated, but he ultimately wins the reviewer over with his self-deprecatory and organic progression.
Self-Deprecatory and Organic Progression
The film addresses Amir Khan's height through self-aware humor. Gulchan's transformation from an arrogant man to a loving individual is heartwarming and beautifully portrayed. The reviewer was moved by the film's depiction of the struggles faced by families raising differently-abled children. A bizarre yet beautifully designed sequence helps a character overcome fear. Amir Khan's conclusion to the film is particularly appreciated, providing closure to the journey.
Final Thoughts
The reviewer acknowledges the dilemma of reviewing a remake, understanding that those familiar with the original may not find it worth watching in theaters. However, the reviewer was personally moved despite knowing the source material. The film is praised for making the children the stars and for celebrating those who are often denied equality. The reviewer recommends "Sitari Zaminpur" to those who haven't seen the original and want to support a film that champions marginalized communities.
