Chandu Champion Review: Kartik Aaryan Shines in an Emotional and Inspiring Underdog Story

In the heartwarming film Chandu Champion, directed by Kabir Khan, we witness a riveting portrayal of an unsung hero's journey. Based on the life of Murlikant Petkar, India's first Paralympic gold medallist, the movie chronicles his struggles, triumphs, and undying spirit. Released on June 14, 2024, the film has garnered praise for its emotional depth and Kartik Aaryan's stellar performance.

 

Chandu Champion Review

Chandu Champion opens with an elderly Murli (played by Kartik Aaryan) in a police station, narrating his life's story to a group of cops. This framing device sets the stage for a series of flashbacks that take us through Murli's journey from an ambitious teenager to a celebrated Paralympian. The narrative skillfully balances the highs and lows of his life, showcasing his dedication to his dream despite the numerous obstacles he faces.

 

From being an obsessed young athlete training in the army to suffering life-altering injuries during the 1965 Kashmir war, Murli's story is a testament to human resilience. The film poignantly depicts how he transforms his adversity into strength, turning to swimming after being paralyzed from the waist down and eventually achieving his Olympic dream.

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Kartik Aaryan's Knockout Performance

Kartik Aaryan's portrayal of Murlikant Petkar is nothing short of extraordinary. Known for his roles in romantic comedies, Aaryan steps into uncharted territory with "Chandu Champion," delivering a performance that is both nuanced and powerful. His physical transformation for the role, coupled with his dedication to capturing Murli's personality and demeanor, is evident in every frame.

 

Aaryan excels in both the physically demanding scenes, such as wrestling and boxing, and the emotionally charged moments that highlight Murli's inner turmoil and determination. His ability to balance humor and intensity adds depth to the character, making Murli's journey relatable and inspiring.

 

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Kabir Khan's Direction and Storytelling

Director Kabir Khan, known for his work on films like "Bajrangi Bhaijaan" and "83," brings his signature storytelling style to "Chandu Champion." By choosing not to mount the story on a grand canvas, Khan allows the subtlety and simplicity of Murli's journey to shine through. His use of humor to lighten the narrative, such as the training scene at the army camp and the airport sequence, adds a relatable and heartwarming touch to the film.

 

The screenplay, co-written by Khan, Sumit Arora, and Sudipto Sarkar, successfully keeps the audience engaged with its non-linear narrative. While the story occasionally loses pace in the second half, it quickly regains momentum, thanks to Aaryan's compelling performance and Khan's deft direction.

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Supporting Cast and Character Development

While Kartik Aaryan remains the central focus of the film, the supporting cast significantly enhances the overall narrative. Bhuvan Arora, as Murli's friend Karnail Singh, delivers a rock-solid performance, and their camaraderie adds a layer of authenticity to the story. Aniruddh Dave, as Murli's brother, makes a notable impact in his limited screen time, while Vijay Raaz, as the irascible boxing coach Tiger Ali, brings depth and humor to the film.

 

However, the film could have benefited from a more fleshed-out portrayal of Murli's personal life, especially his relationships with his family. The scene where his family visits him after the war is particularly moving, and more such moments would have added emotional depth to the story.

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Music and Cinematography

The film's music, though not extraordinary as standalone tracks, complements the narrative well. Songs like "Sarphira" and "Satyanaas" fit seamlessly into the storyline, enhancing the overall emotional impact. The cinematography captures the essence of Murli's journey beautifully, from the bustling streets of his village to the intense training sessions in the army.

 

Chandu Champion is a poignant addition to the genre of sports dramas, celebrating the indomitable human spirit. It brings to light the inspiring story of Murlikant Petkar, a forgotten hero who defied all odds to achieve greatness. Kabir Khan's direction, coupled with Kartik Aaryan's remarkable performance, makes this film a must-watch.

 

Despite some minor flaws, "Chandu Champion" succeeds in delivering an emotional and inspiring tale that resonates with audiences. It is a beautiful reminder of the power of perseverance and the importance of believing in one's dreams, no matter how insurmountable the challenges may seem.

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FAQs for Chandu Champion

Q1. What is "Chandu Champion" about?

Ans: "Chandu Champion" is a biographical sports drama about Murlikant Petkar, India's first Paralympics gold medallist, showcasing his journey from an ambitious athlete to overcoming life-altering injuries to achieve his Olympic dream.

 

Q2. How is Kartik Aaryan's performance in the film?

Ans: Kartik Aaryan delivers a standout performance, capturing the physical and emotional challenges of Murlikant Petkar's journey with great nuance and dedication.

 

Q3. Why should I watch "Chandu Champion"?

Ans: The film is inspiring and emotionally engaging, with strong direction by Kabir Khan and a compelling performance by Kartik Aaryan, celebrating the triumph of the human spirit.