We’ve all seen the promos and the posters, causing many of us to develop preconceived notions about this film. Well, I’d like to clear some of them before I start reviewing the film. Heroes is not a war movie, it doesn’t have a battle-centric plot and Heroes certainly isn’t a cheesy, off-the-block film. With mass hysteria building up close to its release, the family audiences have hit the scene with a bang! The last time I saw so many families together was with the release of either Rang De Basanti or Lage Raho Munna Bhai. Well, is Heroes another revolutionizing film or is it just an alright attempt? Read and find out.
Directed by the not-so-successful director Samir Karnik, Heroes doesn’t have many expectations to live up to. With Samir’s last outing being Nanhe Jaisalmer, I’m pretty sure some of the Salman, Sohail or Preity fans didn’t even bother coming out to see this one.
But guys, Bollywood is all about giving people another chance. So what if Karnik’s previous work fizzled out in the blink of an eye? With Heroes, Karnik has assembled some impressive cast members and interesting plots. Let’s see if his third outing as a director hits the bulls eye or not.
Heroes is a story about two young boys, Ali (Vatsal Sheth) and Sammy (Sohail Khan) who are doing a project for film school. They have been asked to deliver three letters across the nation to the families of the deceased. As these two head out on their little motorbike they have no idea what awaits them.
While the main idea is enticing, does it maintain the same route with the plot? The answer is yes! The plot is just as amazing.
First, we see Balkar Singh (Salman Khan) and Kuljit Kaur (Preity Zinta). They reside in a village, and it is their chapter that launches the story. With a touching and fun-loving story, this part of the film shines the brightest. The chemistry works extraordinarily and the emotions are all heartfelt. Each scene is one you can relate back to because everything seems just so personal. Definitely, an A to chapter one.
As the story progresses, we see Vikram (Sunny Deol) and Dhananjay (Bobby Deol) Shergill’s story. Sunny Deol makes an impressive comeback if you want to call it that and Bobby is alright with his guest appearance. And of course, if you have Sunny in a movie you need have fight sequences! They take us back to the ‘Sunny Era’ when his one punch made the audience roar, clap and whistle. Well, the scenes are also very well executed and might just manage to get the same reaction. This story, although it is on a lower level compared to that of Salman and Preity’s, is just as impacting. Sunny acts well and you get to see an emotional side to him through his character.
The last story is probably the least favourite of mine. Dr. Naqvi (Mithun Chakraborty) and his son Sahil Naqvi (Dino Moreo) are not the strongest link in the chain. Mithun’s acting is good as it always is, but it seems like the whole pace of this story and the reflection of Dino’s overtly exciting lines just mellows everything out. And not in a good way either.
Through these chapters, seeing the ‘Heroes’ of this film, Sohail and Vatsal, is a great experience. They are truly fine actors, especially Sohail. He mixes in comedy, emotions and drama into a lovely blend. Vatsal is the surprise-package as he has been directed well. Salman and Preity steal the show with their experience and acting skills. Sunny and Mithun Da seem to have the uncanny ability to reach out and connect with the audience.
The direction of this film is definitely a bright spot. It seems like Karnik is learning and we should look forward to many more great works from him. The bar has of course been raised by Heroes so Samir must make even better films now. What I also really love about the movie is its art direction and cinematography. They are top-notch and a delight to the eyes. The soundtrack of this film, although not the best by Sajid-Wajid and Monty Sharma, still manages to strike a chord with the background story. It definitely has mass appeal.
Overall, Heroes is a joyride that you don’t want to miss. Take your family and watch this movie. When you come out of the theaters, you will feel like you have been part of a revolutionary experience.
Heroes has everything working for it to become a super hit, and I wouldn’t be surprised if it swept all the awards at the ceremonies. This film is a must see!
