Review: Maidaan the movie When Shah Rukh Khan's Chak De! India first opened in theatres, I was a student. I still clearly recall cheering "India, India" with other moviegoers, rejoicing at every victory as if it were a live match, and even breaking down in tears at the conclusion of the movie. Almost 17 years after its premiere, the movie is still regarded as a classic among Bollywood's sports films. I'll admit that I was ready to compare Maidaan to Chak De! India when I entered the theatre. Although the Ajay Devgn picture followed a different route than the SRK film, both films offer an amazing cinematic experience.
Amit Sharma is the director, while Ajay Devgn plays the lead in Maidaan. The movie is based on the life of Syed Abdul Rahim, a football coach, and the occasions leading up to India's victory in the Asia Games in 1962. In addition to Ajay, Priya Mani plays Ajay's wife, while Gajraj Rao plays a journalist in the movie. The team also includes a number of new players, such as Madhur Mittal from Slumdog Millionaire and Chaitnya Sharma, also known as SlowCheeta.
The goals, tribulations, and triumphs of coach Syed Abdul Rahim—better known as SA Rahim—are all featured in the movie. Along with trying to assemble an unbreakable team, the coach has to contend with the football association, a journalist on the defensive, and even demonstrators. All of this to use football to help put India on the map of the globe.
In a nutshell, Maidaan is an exciting movie—but only in certain sections. Let's start by addressing the big issue, which is the three-hour running time. Is it worthwhile to watch the entire thing? Yes, in my opinion.
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