Azaad directed by Abhishek Kapoor, hit theaters on January 17, 2025, introducing audiences to debutants Aaman Devgan and Rasha Thadani, alongside seasoned actors Ajay Devgn and Diana Penty. Set against the backdrop of 1920s India, the film aspires to weave a tale of rebellion, resilience, and the profound bond between a young man and a spirited horse.
Movie name: Azaad Release Date: 2025 Jan 17 Director: Abhishek Kapoor Stars: Ajay Devgn, Aman Devgan, Diana Penty Languages: Hindi
The narrative centers on Govind (Aaman Devgan), a humble stable boy employed by the affluent and oppressive Rai Bahadur (Piyush Mishra). Govind’s life takes a transformative turn when he encounters Azaad, a majestic stallion owned by the rebellious chieftain Vikram Singh (Ajay Devgn). Following Vikram’s demise, Govind inherits the responsibility of Azaad, leading him on a journey of self-discovery and defiance against colonial subjugation. The plot intensifies as Govind faces mounting pressures from Rai Bahadur’s forces, culminating in a high-stakes horse-riding challenge at the Ardh Kumbh fair.
Performances
Aaman Devgan, in his inaugural role, delivers a performance that reflects earnestness and potential. His portrayal of Govind captures the character’s evolution from a naive youth to a determined rebel. Rasha Thadani, portraying Janaki Bahadur, brings a captivating screen presence, though her character’s development remains underexplored. Ajay Devgn, as Vikram Singh, exudes authority and gravitas, albeit in a role that feels more like an extended cameo. Diana Penty’s portrayal of Kesar Bahadur is sincere, yet her character arc lacks depth, limiting her impact on the overall narrative.
Direction and Screenplay
Abhishek Kapoor’s direction showcases moments of visual grandeur, effectively capturing the essence of 1920s India. However, the screenplay, co-written by Kapoor, Suresh Nair, and Ritesh Shah, struggles with pacing and character development. The first half meanders with predictable tropes, while the second half gains momentum but fails to deliver a cohesive emotional payoff. The absence of a compelling romantic subplot between Govind and Janaki leaves a void in the film’s emotional core, a deviation from traditional Bollywood narratives.
Cinematography and Music
Cinematographer Satyajit Pande (Setu) adeptly captures the rustic landscapes and period-specific settings, with the climactic horse-riding sequence standing out for its visual intensity. Amit Trivedi’s musical composition offers a mixed bag; while tracks like “Uyi Amma” resonate with festive energy, the overall soundtrack lacks memorable melodies. The background score, composed by Hitesh Sonik, attempts to elevate dramatic moments but occasionally falls short of enhancing the narrative’s emotional depth.
Critical Reception
Upon release, “Azaad” garnered mixed-to-negative reviews. Critics lauded the film’s ambitious premise and visual appeal but criticized its weak script and character development. The Times of India noted, “While ‘Azaad’ has moments of grandeur, it is overshadowed by an overall lack of emotional and narrative payoff.”
Box Office Performance
Despite the star-studded cast and the introduction of fresh faces, “Azaad” underperformed at the box office. The film’s opening day collection was modest, and it struggled to maintain momentum in subsequent days. Factors contributing to its lackluster performance include limited pre-release buzz, mixed critical reception, and competition from other releases.
Conclusion
“Azaad” aspires to be a grand period drama that delves into themes of freedom, loyalty, and personal growth. While it succeeds in presenting a visually appealing portrayal of 1920s India and introduces promising talent in Aaman Devgan and Rasha Thadani, the film falters in delivering a compelling narrative and fully developed characters. For audiences seeking a blend of historical context and emotional depth, “Azaad” offers glimpses of potential but ultimately falls short of leaving a lasting impact.Related movi review
