An epic film. Review on Lagaan

The one word I can think of to describe this film is Epic. This is a truly great and highly original film and the fact that it was nominated for an Oscar proves it. Most Indian Blockbusters are love stories of some form,  Lagaan may have a love story intertwined into it but the actual story of the film is its exciting feature. It takes the sport of cricket, loved by Asians, and makes it a crucial part of the film. What an original and exciting story! They need to beat the English in a match of cricket in order for their taxes to be cut, however, should they lose they will have to pay triple tax. For the English it is a laughable match which they believe they will win easily, but for the Indians of the village it is a match that will change their lives and is about survival. However, these are Indians who have no idea about the game of cricket!

Buvan, played tremendously by Aamir Khan, shows courage and stands up to the English Lieutenant as he takes on the challenge. The other villagers curse him and call him crazy, but he is determined to show them that they can do it if they try. Gradually the other villagers side with him as he sets up a team. A major factor in them bettering their game comes with the lieutenant’s sister, Elizabeth who shows them the rules and skills of the game. Set in a time when Britain ruled India, this film portrays Indian’s struggles against the English. This is shown in the shocking scene where the Raj is told to eat meat when it is against his religion. Therefore, the cricket match is about the Indians standing up for themselves and maintaining their status in their own country.

The romance element comes with Elizabeth finding herself falling in love with Bhuvan, causing Gori to feel jealousy, however Bhuvan only has eyes for Gori. The darkest character of the film Lakha, despises Buvan as he himself loves Gori and sides with the English to defeat Bhuvan. However, when his cunningness is discovered he repents, proving to work hard to be an asset to the team. Lakha’s sudden change shows how the Indians are united and will come together to fight the English.

The songs *Chale Chalo *and *Mitwa *really do suit the whole theme of the film as they have an underlying fighting spirit. The cricket match that the audience has been looking forward to is highly thrilling and can compete with any world cup final!  This is a type of film that is very rare and I myself am left awestruck after each viewing at its magnificence.

Favourite Character: Buvan, played by Aamir Khan

Favourite Scene: When Bhuvan brings a bat and ball for the first time to show the reluctant villagers the way of the game and make them as determined as he is.

Favourite Song: Radha Kaise Na Jale