Chhaava Movie Review: Vicky Kaushal shines in Laxman Utekar’s cinematic spectacle celebrating the Maratha Legend
Chhaava, directed by Laxman Utekar, brings history and heroism to the big screen with standout performances by Vicky Kaushal, Rashmika Mandanna, and Akshaye Khanna.
Vicky Kaushal, Rashmika Mandanna, and Akshaye Khanna star in this epic portrayal of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj’s life, directed by Laxman Utekar.
The anticipation around Chhaava has been building for months, especially after the trailer unveiled the promise of a larger-than-life historical drama. As the film hits theaters on February 14, the first reviews are pouring in, and they are overwhelmingly positive, especially when it comes to the film’s performances and storytelling.
Vicky Kaushal delivers a powerhouse performance In the role of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, Vicky Kaushal has undoubtedly impressed critics and audiences alike. Trade analyst Taran Adarsh, who was among the first to watch the film, shared a glowing review on social media, calling it “spectacular.” Adarsh rated the film 4.5 stars, praising Vicky’s portrayal of the historical figure as “towering” and “award-worthy.” He writes, “Vicky Kaushal delivers a commanding, intense performance, embodying the fierce spirit of Sambhaji Maharaj. His fiery dialogue delivery and emotional depth are unforgettable.”
The film’s action sequences, especially those involving intense combat scenes, are gripping and highlight Vicky’s physical and emotional range. As the Maratha warrior battles his enemies, Kaushal brings a raw energy to the screen that elevates the entire film.
Laxman Utekar’s direction: A perfect blend of scale and storytelling Director Laxman Utekar, known for his work in films like Luka Chuppi and Mimi, takes a bold step with Chhaava. He masterfully blends grandeur with emotional storytelling, bringing Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj’s remarkable journey to life. Utekar manages to balance the film’s large-scale action with moments of intimacy, ensuring that the audience remains emotionally invested throughout.
The director’s vision is especially clear in the way the film showcases the unyielding courage and leadership of Sambhaji, while also delving into the personal relationships that define his life. Whether it’s the confrontations with his enemies or quieter moments with his wife, played by Rashmika Mandanna, Utekar captures the essence of the Maratha warrior’s character.
Supporting cast: Akshaye Khanna and Rashmika Mandanna Akshaye Khanna as the ruthless Aurangzeb stands out in the film. Despite the heavy prosthetics, Khanna delivers a chilling performance as the Mughal emperor, obsessed with defeating Sambhaji. His confrontations with Vicky Kaushal provide some of the most memorable moments of the film.
Rashmika Mandanna plays Maharani Yesubai, Sambhaji’s wife, and delivers a heartfelt performance. While the film focuses primarily on the intense action and political drama, Rashmika’s presence offers a tender balance, portraying the emotional depth of a woman behind a warrior.
Watch trailer here:
Chhava trailer
A gripping, intense experience Chhaava is unapologetically loud and intense, with the film’s action sequences often bordering on the brutal. The film’s graphic violence, depicting the suffering of the Marathas and their battles, might feel overwhelming at times. However, this intensity aligns with the story’s purpose of honoring the heroic legacy of Sambhaji Maharaj.
The film’s pacing can be exhausting, as it maintains a relentless momentum through the 161-minute runtime. Nevertheless, for fans of historical action dramas, this is a cinematic experience that does not shy away from portraying the violence and valor of the time.
A historic masterpiece Chhaava is more than just a historical epic—it’s a tribute to the indomitable spirit of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. With Vicky Kaushal’s stellar performance and Laxman Utekar’s visionary direction, the film is a must-watch for anyone interested in India’s rich history and cinematic excellence.
Actor Aamir Khan is reportedly preparing to marry longtime partner Gauri Spratt in a private ceremony on July 5. While the couple has not officially confirmed the wedding, reports suggest the celebration will be a low-key affair attended by close family and friends.
Actor Aamir Khan is readying to finally marry his longtime partner, Gauri Spratt, in a private ceremony on July 5. Unlike other high-profile Bollywood weddings, the couple is expected to celebrate the occasion with close family members and a handful of friends, choosing a simple gathering over a lavish event.
The reported wedding has attracted widespread attention from fans and the film industry, with many taking to social media to congratulate the couple. While neither Aamir nor Gauri has shared extensive details about the ceremony, reports suggest the celebrations will remain intimate and focused on family.
The actor was first married to Reena Dutta, and they have two children together. In 2005, Aamir married filmmaker Kiran Rao. The couple announced their separation in 2021 but have continued to maintain a friendly relationship and jointly raise their son while working together on select projects.
Gauri Spratt has largely stayed away from the limelight. Despite growing public interest in their relationship, she has preferred to keep her personal life private. Reports indicate that Gauri and Aamir have known each other for several years before deciding to take the next step in their relationship.
Known for balancing a successful film career with a private personal life, Aamir Khan has often avoided discussing family matters in public. His reported decision to opt for a low-key wedding is in line with his long-standing preference for privacy.
As news of the upcoming ceremony continues to make headlines, fans are eagerly waiting for an official glimpse of the celebrations. Whether through a family photograph or a public statement, many hope to see the couple share the joyful occasion with their well-wishers.
With this wedding, Aamir Khan appears ready to embrace a new phase in his life while continuing to focus on both his personal happiness and his significant contribution to Indian cinema.
Nolan’s Odyssey set to release July 17, hype machine kicks in
Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey is scheduled to release on July 17. Featuring an all-star cast led by Matt Damon, the film is the first feature ever shot entirely with full-frame IMAX film cameras, bringing Homer’s legendary epic to the big screen.
Oscar-winning director Chris Nolan’s highly anticipated epic The Odyssey will have its world premiere on July 17 , 2026, taking audiences on an unforgettable ride into Homer’s timeless Greek epic.
The film tells the tale of the difficult journey King Odysseus undertook to return home after the Trojan War and is replete wiht mythical adventures and divine intervention in the seas.
Matt Damon plays Odysseus with Tom Holland as Telemachus and Anne Hathaway as Penelope. The movie also stars Zendaya, Robert Pattinson, Lupita Nyong’o, and Charlize Theron among others. Nyong’o’s casting as Helen of Troy has had social media in ferment the moment her casting was announced.
Said to have been produced with a budget of around $250 million, The Odyssey is Nolans’s most expensive film so far. It has also managed to create history as it has become the first feature film ever to be shot using full-frame IMAX film cameras.
The film represents Nolan’s comeback to history and myth making after the success of his previous offering, Oppenheimer. Odyssey is expected to set the bar even higher for epic movies through the combination of classic literature and modern technology.
The movie has been highly anticipated and has become one of the highly anticipated films of 2026 because of its director, cast, and large production scope. The Odyssey will also be introducing the Greek epic to a new generation.
Alpha movie review: Alia Bhatt powers through an entertaining but familiar spy spectacle
Alia Bhatt impresses with her action-packed performance in Alpha, but a predictable script and familiar superhero-inspired narrative stop the YRF Spy Universe film from becoming truly memorable.
The YRF Spy Universe expands once again with Alpha, marking the franchise’s first female-led action film. After years of male spies dominating the cinematic universe, Alia Bhatt steps into the spotlight as Sita, a genetically enhanced operative entrusted with carrying an ambitious action entertainer almost entirely on her shoulders. While the actor succeeds in making the character memorable through her energetic screen presence and committed action performance, the film’s predictable storyline prevents it from reaching its full potential.
Directed by Shiv Rawail, Alpha combines large-scale action, espionage and superhero-style storytelling. However, despite its impressive visuals and action choreography, the film struggles to offer a fresh narrative in an increasingly crowded spy franchise.
Alia Bhatt delivers one of the film’s biggest strengths
Alia Bhatt undergoes a convincing physical transformation for the role and brings an expressive quality rarely seen in mainstream action heroes. Instead of maintaining a stoic expression throughout combat sequences, she allows her emotions to surface, making every confrontation feel personal.
Her character, Sita, balances confidence, wit and emotional vulnerability. As an orphan raised under extraordinary circumstances, she carries emotional scars beneath her fearless exterior, and Alia effectively captures both sides of the character.
The emotional depth she adds helps elevate scenes that otherwise rely heavily on stylised action.
Familiar story limits the excitement
Despite its promising premise, Alpha follows a storyline that feels heavily inspired by familiar superhero films. Written by Uday Chopra, Shridhar Raghavan and Ishita Moitra, the narrative blends elements of Indian mythology with comic-book style storytelling but offers few genuine surprises.
The story follows Fateh, played by Bobby Deol, a military officer who develops a secret project to create genetically enhanced super soldiers using a serum known as Alpha. After the experiment fails, circumstances lead to the serum being injected into the unborn daughter of Kaul’s wife, altering the child’s genetics before birth.
That child eventually grows up to become Sita, a highly trained operative raised under Fateh’s control.
While the concept has potential, much of the film’s central mystery is revealed through its promotional campaign, leaving only a few surprises for audiences during the actual film.
Action sequences remain consistently engaging
Where Alpha truly succeeds is in its action. The hand-to-hand combat sequences are choreographed with intensity and supported by an energetic background score that keeps the momentum alive.
Sharvari proves to be an equally capable action performer, matching Alia’s intensity in both emotional and combat scenes. Their chemistry suggests an engaging partnership, although the screenplay does not spend enough time exploring their relationship before moving on to larger action set-pieces involving gunfights and helicopters.
Bobby Deol and Anil Kapoor add dramatic weight
The supporting cast significantly strengthens the film.
Bobby Deol makes a commanding antagonist whose calm demeanour contrasts effectively with sudden bursts of violence. His restrained performance makes Fateh an intimidating villain, although the screenplay stops short of giving him a deeper emotional backstory.
Anil Kapoor also leaves a solid impression as Kaul, bringing authority and emotional conviction to his scenes. Together, both actors provide much-needed dramatic weight that helps compensate for the screenplay’s shortcomings.
Verdict
Alpha delivers polished action, committed performances and slick production values, but its familiar superhero-inspired plot prevents it from becoming one of the strongest entries in the YRF Spy Universe. Alia Bhatt leads confidently, Sharvari proves to be an impressive action partner, while Bobby Deol and Anil Kapoor elevate the material whenever they appear. However, the franchise may need fresher storytelling if it hopes to keep audiences invested beyond the spectacle.
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