Pippa Movie Review: Ishaan Khatter, Mrunal Thakur's Film Earns A Salute, Shouldering Soldiering History With Commendable Storytelling
The film's strength lies in its straightforward storytelling, avoiding unnecessary diversions and maintaining a sharp focus on the core narrative.
"Pippa," directed by Raja Krishna Menon, is a compelling war drama set against the backdrop of the Indo-Pak War of 1971, culminating in the birth of Bangladesh. The film delves into the historical context of the conflict, focusing on the plight of East Pakistan, its struggle for autonomy, and the subsequent intervention by India.
The narrative efficiently navigates through the complexities of the geopolitical landscape, laying the foundation with a poignant portrayal of the historical events. The introductory cartoon story effectively captures the atrocities faced by the people of East Pakistan, setting the tone for the intense drama that follows. The film's strength lies in its straightforward storytelling, avoiding unnecessary diversions and maintaining a sharp focus on the core narrative.
The cinematography, particularly in the motion sequences, is commendable. The scene where Balli and his troop charge toward the war tank stands out, showcasing the cinematographer's skill in capturing the intensity of war. The set design contributes to the film's authenticity, recreating the era with precision.
A standout element is the exploration of the relationship dynamic between the two brothers, Balram and Ram Mehta, portrayed by Ishaan Khatter and Priyanshu Painyuli, respectively. This adds a layer of emotional depth to the film, making the characters more relatable and their sacrifices more poignant. The music, featuring tracks like "Jazbaat" and "Main Parwaana," complements the narrative, providing both soothing moments and energetic sequences, supported by a chilling background score.
However, the film is not without its flaws. The visual effects in the battle sequences appear subpar, with computer-generated blasts diminishing the overall authenticity. Additionally, certain portions of the screenplay slow down the pace, and a 15-minute reduction in the runtime could have enhanced the overall viewing experience.
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In conclusion, "Pippa" stands as a heartening tribute to India's war heroes, offering a gritty and compelling portrayal of a significant historical event. Despite its visual effects shortcomings and occasional pacing issues, the film succeeds in delivering a no-nonsense narrative that resonates with viewers. Ishaan Khatter's performance, coupled with the film's strong storytelling, makes "Pippa" a worthwhile watch for those interested in historical war dramas.
