120 Bahadur Movie Review
Farhan Akhtar’s Film Immortalizes 120 War Heroes, Because History Couldn’t – Let’s Keep Celebrating These Unsung Heroes
120 Bahadur arrives as a gripping and respectful tribute to the brave soldiers who fought at Rezang La in 1962. Farhan Akhtar leads a cast that breathes life into a chapter of Indian history that deserved to be remembered long ago. The film is calm, fierce, moving and reflective, pushing the audience to sit with their thoughts long after the credits roll.
Farhan Akhtar’s 120 Bahadur is so courageous and brave yet so calm and silent, it makes you want to think but in isolation – full movie review
The film approaches patriotism with sincerity instead of spectacle. It does not shout its message; it lets courage speak quietly through moments of resilience and fearlessness. As someone who has watched and judged countless films, this one made me step back. It made me realise that not every story of war should be examined through entertainment metrics. Some films exist to honor lives, not impress audiences.
120 Bahadur carries that responsibility with dignity. It leaves you with gratitude and a quiet sense of awe for those who fought without expecting acknowledgment.
120 Bahadur Movie Review: Script Analysis
The story focuses on a battalion of 120 Indian soldiers holding their ground against 3000 Chinese troops during the Indo China war of 1962. These were real men, many in their early twenties, stationed at Rezang La with little equipment, no heavy winter clothing and almost no expectation of survival. Yet they chose duty, choosing to stand their ground even when offered a way out.
Farhan Akhtar plays Major Shaitan Singh Bhati, who leads with calm resolve. His words, “Lade bina to nahi jaayenge,” carry the spirit of the entire troop. These men were fighting in impossible conditions, freezing temperatures, and without even basic protection like jackets.
The script honors their bravery by focusing on their choices, their humor, their fears and their bonds. These soldiers joke, argue, dream of Madhubala, question their commanding officer’s name and still prepare to defend their post. Their humanity is what lifts the film beyond a typical war narrative.
120 Bahadur Movie Review: Star Performance
Farhan Akhtar delivers a grounded and powerful performance. His portrayal of Major Shaitan Singh Bhati is calm but carries immense weight. The film uses a slow build so the audience feels the inevitability of his journey. By the second half, the emotions hit hard as the battle takes over the screen.
The younger actors, especially Ankit Siwach, Sahib Verma and Sparsh Walia, shine with sincerity. Their performances have a rawness that feels real. Ajinkya Deo, Eijaz Khan and Vivaan Bhatena add strength to the ensemble. Raashii Khanna’s role is brief but heartfelt, though her accent slips occasionally.
120 Bahadur Movie Review: Direction, Music
Razneesh Razy Ghai chooses an unusual approach for a war drama. The film stays rooted in the present instead of drifting into flashbacks, capturing soldiers as they are in the final days of their lives. They laugh, fight, ask silly questions and find small joys, reminding the audience that heroes are ordinary people who rise when needed.
The film also brings the often overshadowed 1962 war into the spotlight, restoring pride to an event that has been misunderstood or forgotten over the years. The recounting of the Battle of Rezang La serves as a much needed tribute to these soldiers.
The only drawback lies in the music. War films usually thrive on stirring background scores, but the soundtrack here falls short. The music does not elevate the intensity and sometimes feels mismatched, particularly in emotional high points.
120 Bahadur Movie Review: The Last Word
120 Bahadur is not just another war film. It is a reminder that some stories should not be measured by cinematic rules. They should be acknowledged with respect. Farhan Akhtar’s film carries an honesty that lingers. It urges us to stop judging the technicalities and instead salute the men who sacrificed everything.
The gesture of rolling the names of all 120 soldiers at the end is a thoughtful and moving detail. It ensures these men are remembered by name, not just by numbers.
This film deserves not a rating but a salute.
FAQs
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Is 120 Bahadur based on a true story?
- Yes. The film is based on the real Battle of Rezang La during the 1962 Indo China war where 120 Indian soldiers fought a much larger enemy force.
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Is Farhan Akhtar good in the film?
- Yes. He delivers a composed and powerful performance as Major Shaitan Singh Bhati.
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How accurate is the film?
- The film takes cinematic liberties but the core events and spirit of the Rezang La battle remain authentic.
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Should I watch 120 Bahadur in theatres?
- Yes. The theatrical experience enhances the impact of the battle sequences and emotional scenes.
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Does the film have good music?
- The music is one of the weaker aspects. The background score does not match the intensity of the narrative.
