In the adrenaline-pumping landscape of action cinema, “Commando” delivers a throwback to the days of unadulterated martial arts prowess, reminiscent of the early eighties. Helmed by Dilip Ghosh, this film brings to the forefront a gritty hero, played by Vidyut Jamwal.
A Tale of Heroism and Resilience
“Commando” introduces us to Karanveer Dogra (Vidyut Jamwal), an elite Special Operations Commando. The film kicks off with Dogra finding himself trapped in Chinese territory after a mission goes awry. Enduring brutal torture, he manages to escape back into India, only to be intercepted by Simran (Pooja Chopra). A courageous North Indian girl who has fled her home to evade the clutches of the villainous Amrit Kumar. With a white-eyed determination, Ak 74 seeks to make Simran his wife by any means necessary.
Unveiling the Action-Packed Plot
The heart of “Commando” lies in its action-packed plot. The hero, Dogra, is armed not only with exceptional combat skills rooted in the Indian martial art of Kalaripayattu but also the agility to execute daring stunts that mirror the grace of a ballet performance. He navigates his way through various adversaries, including a Chinese double agent, corrupt police and forest guards, and the relentless Ak 74.
Nostalgic Influence and Clear-Cut Direction
The film’s narrative strategy takes us back to the era of straightforward action cinema. Director Dilip Ghosh’s approach remains unencumbered by excessive sentimentality or emotional distractions. The story unfolds linearly, driven by a single-minded purpose that keeps the pace swift.
A Stunt Spectacle
Vidyut Jamwal, in the lead role, delivers a formidable performance, embodying the spirit of an action hero with finesse and flair. The action sequences, choreographed by South African expert Franz Spilhaus, are a departure from the fantastical and over-the-top trends of mainstream cinema. The stunts are raw, authentic, and a testament to Jamwal’s dedication and prowess.
Performances and Character Dynamics
While the villain, Ak 74, portrayed by Jaideep Ahlawat, treads familiar villainous territory, Pooja Chopra’s Simran fits the mold of a stereotypical damsel-in-distress.
The Rise of Vidyut Jamwal
In the realm of action heroes, Vidyut Jamwal emerges as a revelation. While his character doesn’t require extensive emotional range, Jamwal effortlessly embodies Dogra’s persona, seamlessly blending into the role’s requirements. He redefines the action hero archetype with his unique style and performance.
Conclusion: A Triumph of Action and Heroism
“Commando” rekindles the flame of classic action cinema, offering a breath of fresh air in a landscape often dominated by elaborate CGI-laden spectacles. Vidyut Jamwal’s commanding presence, the film takes its place as a testament to the enduring appeal of raw.
