Ajay Devgn's Maidaan has been a highly anticipated project that has faced several delays due to natural calamities such as the Covid-19 pandemic and Cyclone Nisarga. Directed by the talented Amit Sharma, the film is a biopic on the legendary Indian football coach, Syed Abdul Rahim. After much anticipation, Maidaan is set to finally hit theaters on April 11, 2024.
The film's journey to the big screen has been one filled with challenges, but now it's time to see if Maidaan lives up to the expectations of movie lovers. With its inspiring story and Ajay Devgn's portrayal of Syed Abdul Rahim, the film has the potential to mesmerize audiences.
Furthermore, the film's OTT rights have been acquired by Amazon Prime, indicating the platform's confidence in the film's appeal. As the release date approaches, all eyes are on "Maidaan" to see if it scores big on the field of cinema and wins over the hearts of viewers.
Maidaan chronicles the incredible journey of a man spanning a decade, dedicated to bringing glory to his nation. It tells the true story of India's greatest football coach, Syed Abdul Rahim, during the Golden Era of Indian Football—a tale of unwavering determination and boundless passion.
Following a humiliating 10-1 defeat against Hungary in the 1952 Helsinki Olympics, Rahim (Ajay Devgn) faces scrutiny from the Indian Football Federation. In response, Rahim seeks autonomy in team selection, promising results if granted the freedom to choose. After securing the federation's approval, Rahim embarks on a nationwide search for talent, assembling a team that represents the best of India's football prowess.
However, tensions arise when Bengali players feel sidelined, leading to conflict within the federation. An altercation with a prominent sports journalist further complicates matters. Despite the challenges, Rahim's team performs admirably at the Asian Games, finishing fourth. Despite this achievement, Rahim is dismissed from his position.
The film delves into Rahim's journey post-dismissal, exploring how he overcomes obstacles to restore glory to Indian football and the federation. Rahim's resilience and dedication serve as a beacon of inspiration, showcasing the triumph of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
Ajay Devgn delivers a stellar performance in his portrayal of the legendary coach, Syed Abdul Rahim, showcasing remarkable body language, mannerisms, and delivering impactful yet subtle dialogues. His expressions and emotive range are commendable, striking a balance that avoids melodrama.
Priyamani, in a supporting role as Ajay Devgn's wife, shines in her limited screen time, leaving a lasting impact. Despite the brevity of her role, she adds depth and resonance to the narrative.
Gajraj Rao impresses as the sports journalist, portraying his character's negative traits with convincing evil expressions. The supporting cast also excels in their respective roles, particularly the actors playing the football players, who bring authenticity and realism to their characters.
Maidaan, directed by Amit Sharma, beautifully honors the legacy of India's legendary football coach, showcasing his journey of overcoming obstacles to achieve greatness. The first half of the film is a smooth sail, focusing on Ajay Devgn's mission and portraying football matches in a realistic manner. However, the second half loses its momentum as it delves into Ajay Devgn's personal problems, slowing down the tempo.
The story itself is intriguing, but the screenplay could have been more engaging. The dialogues, though decent and natural, lack the punch needed to elevate the narrative. With better script refinement, the film could have had a more significant impact.
A.R. Rahman's music and songs, while situational and emotive, sometimes act as speed bumps, disrupting the flow of the narrative. Cinematographers Tushar Kanti Ray and Fyodor Lyass excel in capturing the essence of the 50s era, creating a natural and realistic portrayal of the country's atmosphere. The football matches are depicted with precision, evoking the right emotions and expressions, although they may remind viewers of similar scenes from previous sports films.
The CGI and VFX, while effective, could have been more polished in certain instances. Dev Rao Jadhav's editing is adequate but lacks the finesse needed to elevate the storytelling. Overall, the production values are commendable, contributing to the film's authenticity and visual appeal.
Altogether, Maidaan featuring Ajay Devgn pays homage to the unsung heroes of Indian football, particularly its revered coach, Syed Abdul Rahim. However, despite its heartfelt tribute, the film's predictable storytelling and resemblances to previous sports dramas and biopics hinder its ability to offer a fresh cinematic experience. Taking these factors into account, Cinejosh awards Maidaan a rating of 2.75 stars.