Chhaava Review: Intense Battles, Strong Performances, but a Scattered Story

Chhaava aims to present the life of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Raje but struggles to establish an emotional connection with the audience. The film opens with an over-choreographed action sequence reminiscent of 300, filled with slow-motion shots and intense combat. While visually striking, this approach distances viewers from the historical depth of the narrative. The first half of the film feels scattered, moving between events without a clear emotional thread, making it difficult to stay engaged. However, the second half gains much-needed focus and momentum, leading to a more immersive experience.

Vicky Kaushal delivers a sincere performance, bringing depth and conviction to his portrayal of Sambhaji Raje. His dedication to the role is evident, and his efforts help anchor the film despite its storytelling flaws. Akshaye Khanna, playing Aurangzeb, commands the screen with minimal dialogue, relying on his piercing gaze and controlled expressions to leave a lasting impact. Rashmika Mandanna, unfortunately, is given a limited role, and her character lacks the development needed to make a strong impression. Supporting actors add authenticity but are often overshadowed by the film’s grand scale and intense action sequences.

The film’s loud background score often overpowers the emotions rather than enhancing them, making dramatic moments feel forced. The songs, while attempting to add cultural and narrative richness, fail to leave a lasting mark. Additionally, the non-linear storytelling jumps between timelines abruptly, making it challenging to stay invested in the unfolding drama. The cinematography does a commendable job of capturing the grandeur of battle sequences, but it sometimes feels more style over substance.

The climax stands out for its disturbingly brutal depiction of events, reminiscent of The Passion of the Christ, which may leave viewers uncomfortable. Despite its flaws, Chhaava remains watchable due to Vicky Kaushal’s commitment to the role and its grand-scale battle sequences. While it struggles with coherence and emotional depth, it still manages to hold its ground in mainstream cinema. With better narrative structure and character development, Chhaava could have been a more compelling historical epic.