Major review:- A heartwarming ode to Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan’s valour and sacrifices

By:- Aakruti Bagla

Director:- Sashi Kiran Tikka

Producer:- Mahesh Babu

Cast:-Adivi Sesh, Saiee Manjrekar, Sobhita Dhulipala, Prakash Raj, Revathi

Runtime:- 150 minutes

Rating:- 3/5

Story:-
Major endeavours to regale us with the tale of Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan from his early days as a kid who dreamed of nothing else other than joining the Indian Army to how he quickly rose and gained the admiration of both his superiors through acts of extreme valour to how he finally gave it his all on the ill-fated 26/11 Mumbai attacks, despite being at the post of training officer.

Review:-
One thing when bringing to life the story of a soldier, or an attack is, the events are already known, and yet managing to hold viewers attention and interest through the proceedings is what poses as a challenge to filmmaker.
In case of major, it is an authentic biopic but struggles to translate as a compelling watch.

From the beginning, director Sashi Kiran Tikka has made it clear that the film showcases various aspects of Sandeep Unnikrishnan’s life. He and Adivi Sesh, who apart from acting have also worked on the screenplay of the film, have well-researched work before transferring the vision on the big screen. Without resorting to forced patriotism, they let the emotions flow naturally in the film.

On the flip-side, they spend a little too much time in building up the drama, which tends to slow down the pace of the narrative leaving you a bit dry as you eagerly wait for the action to begin.

Honestly, the storytelling couldn’t engage a person beyond a point with dialogues lacking precision and conviction. It’s the last 30 minutes of the film, that leaves everyone moist-eyed.

When it comes to cinematography, it worked well during the action sequences. However, full marks for the background score that helped enhance the thrill of these sequences.

Coming to music, Oh Isha fails to have a recall value.

Talking about performances, Adivi Sesh as Major Sandeep carries the film on his shoulder. Be it the flamboyant college-going boy to a valiant soldier, who is ready to sacrifice himself for the sake to protect people, the way he taps on to emotions is commendable.

However, his chemistry with Saiee Manjrekar is delightful, albeit in patches. Saiee, despite having limited screen time, makes sure she shines in her part.
Shobhita Dhulipala’s character, however seems like just an addition, as it is not sketched out well.

Apart from Adivi Sesh, it’s Revathi and Prakash Raj, who as Sandeep’s parents steal the show. The whole tale is narrated from their vision. The two have done justice to their parts.

On the whole, Despite a long runtime, Major manages to hold your attention as it attempts to instil patriotism, without being jingoistic. However, it’s Adivi Sesh’s brilliant act that makes it worth a watch.