“Main Atal Hoon” emerges as a standout biopic, encapsulating the life of one of India’s most revered political figures, Atal Bihari Vajpayee. National Award-winning director Ravi Jadhav has masterfully condensed significant events of Vajpayee’s life into a 2+ hour cinematic experience, earning a rating of 3.5/5.
Strong Foundations of the Film
The movie’s success is anchored in three key aspects: adept writing, precise casting, and compelling acting. The screenplay effectively weaves through Atalji’s life journey, supplemented by archival footage. The casting of political figures like L.K. Advani, Sushma Swaraj, Arun Jaitley, and Pramod Mahajan is commendable, adding authenticity to the narrative.
Pankaj Tripathi’s Stellar Performance
Pankaj Tripathi’s portrayal of Atal Bihari Vajpayee is a highlight of the film. He delivers a nuanced performance, striking a balance between imitation and originality, bringing the admired leader’s persona to life without resorting to caricature.
A Tale of Two Halves
The first hour of “Main Atal Hoon” moves at a deliberate pace, potentially challenging the viewer’s patience. Some tightening of the screenplay in this segment could have made the narrative more engaging. However, the film gains momentum post-interval, with improved pacing and impactful scenes.
Technical Brilliance and Release Timing
The film’s technical aspects, especially the monochrome visuals and the background score, significantly enhance the storytelling. However, “Main Atal Hoon” faces a challenge in timing, releasing close to the big-ticket movie “Fighter,” which might affect its visibility and reach.
“Main Atal Hoon” stands out as a finely crafted biopic, a fitting tribute to a legendary leader. Its strengths in storytelling, performance, and technical execution make it a must-watch, despite some pacing issues in its initial stages.
