Dreams are for Real. Review on Dangal

A true story of a wrestler father’s quest to accomplish his unfulfilled dream through his daughters.

The New Year is fast approaching and if you are sincerely looking forward for something to inspire you to challenge the routine and make a life changing decision, then head out to the nearest cinema hall screening ‘Dangal’.  No discipline in the world seems pleasant, but eventually the reward one earns through perseverance is priceless.

If you are new to wrestling, then the good news is that the film familiarizes you with the rules and points system. This film is not made only to entertain but to inspire, hence those who find few scenes going slow, it is deliberate & intentional to generate the necessary emotional impact.  The screenplay is mind-blowing, more so the wrestling performances which was best-in-class.

Story: Mahavir Singh Phogat, a National level Indian wrestler had given up the sport and taken up a job to earn a living and support his family. Unable to win a Gold Medal for India, he wishes to fulfill this dream through his son. Four beautiful daughters are born to him and he had given up on this dream until one day his two eldest daughters Geeta and Babita bashed up two neighbor-hood boys. He realizes that his vision to win a Gold Medal for India could be accomplished through his daughters. With no financial backing but the goal in sight, he sets the ball rolling and starts training his two older daughters who are reluctant. It was difficult for the girls to see the vision their father had for them as they were easily distracted by the casual & carefree lifestyle of their friends who were not resorted to such hardships. Their struggle and perseverance in eventually winning the Gold Medal for India during the Commonwealth Games is not only inspiring but will challenge you into making life changing decisions for yourself and your children.

Cast Performance: Amir Khan as ‘Mahavir Singh Phogat’, Sakshi Tanwar as ‘Mahavir’s wife’, Fatima Sana Shaikh as ‘Geeta’ and Sanya Malhotra as ‘Babita’ skillfully executed their roles to perfection.  Zaira Wasim and Suhani Bhatnagar as the younger Geeta and Babita respectively were brilliant. The casting across the board was apt and their performances produced enthralling screenplay that captivated the viewers into believing the scenes were unfolding live in front of them.

Pros: Cast, Direction, Screenplay, Editing, Cinematography. The daughter defeating her father in a wrestling challenge to prove that her skills were different and superior will pierce your heart. The Indian National Coach humiliating Mahavir in front of his daughter was shocking. All characters were nicely etched out and you would relate to each one of them. The fight choreography was superb and stands out.

Cons: Movie Run time is only 2hours 30 minutes………you wish it went on.

Direction: The Director of ‘Chillar Party’ and ‘Bhoothnath Returns’ - Nitesh Tiwari mesmerizes you with his brilliant work with ‘Dangal’. His skill set was thoroughly exploited in all departments delivering a marvelous product with impressive screenplay. He has co-written the script by thoroughly studying the subject and the characters. All songs in the film had its purpose and played in the background which did not interrupt the story nor did it extend the run time of the film which is noteworthy.

Conclusion: ‘Dangal’ is one of the best Bollywood releases of 2016, a must watch film that will leave you inspired as you move into 2017 with renewed vision. If you are one of those who believe that new year resolutions are meant to be broken, then take a cue from this film which is proof that ‘Nothing is Impossible’ if you sincerely believe, set your eyes on your goal and discipline yourself into achieving it. This being a true story makes it more meaningful whether you are into sports, business or a working professional. Girls will be immensely inspired and parents will pride in their daughters. This sports drama is a treat for your family and friends.