We have often heard lots of stories about the Indian military’s successful exploits during the 1971 war. There have been films on decisive operations which tilted the scales in India’s favour against Pakistan. Till now, the bravado of Army had been highlighted in these films. But debutante director Sankalp’s war drama The Ghazi Attack is different. It is an intriguing tale of courage and patriotism shown in the event which titled the scales in India’s favour during the India-Pakistan war.
The film begins with the tense political situation surrounding India and Pakistan in 1971 . Deputed for a classified mission to detect attacks from Pakistan, INS Vikrant along with submarine S-21 is sent to the east coast. The submarine is headed by Commander Rann Vijay Singh (Kay Kay Menon) who is damn aggressive. As a result, the high command ropes in Lt Commander Arjun Varma (Rana Daggubati) is assigned to assist him. Both the officials have frequent squabbles due to difference in opinion, and it is left to executive officer Devaraj (Atul Kulkarni) to ease the tempers.
The bilingual film chronicling the sinking of Pakistani submarine PNS Ghazi during the war is a must watch for you. Very few people are aware of how a naval officer and his team stayed underwater in Indian Navy’s submarine for 18 days. PNS Ghazi, which had embarked on a mission to sink Indian aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and capture the Visakhapatnam coast, sank under mysterious circumstances. An ensemble cast comprising Rana Daggubati, Taapsee Pannu, Kay Kay Menon and late Om Puri have made this film a thrilling journey. Given the fact that the film was shot underwater in a submarine set, it gives the film a realistic touch. Even Rana Daggubati had confessed the rigours of shooting in a realistic touch, not getting exposure to sunlight during the filming of the movie. Add to this, Amitabh Bachchan’s narration makes it really interesting.
As far as performance is concerned, the ongoing year is gonna be a rocking one for Taapsee Pannu. After a stellar performance in Pink, she has stolen the limelight once again. She will also be seen in Runningshaadi.com which is competing with this film. On the other hand, Rana Daggubati’s portrayal of Lt Commander Arjun Varma is praiseworthy. Kay Kay Menon and Atul Kulkarni do not need more elaborate discussion about their acting prowess. They are fabulous.
If you are interested in history and fond of war-films, The Ghazi Attack is the best bet this weekend. So, book your tickets now before it is packed.
