“Tejas” Movie Review: Kangana Ranaut Shines in a Narrative Struggling to Take Flight

“Tejas,” the latest offering in the realm of Hindi war films, directed by debutante Sarvesh Mewara, attempts to infuse freshness and brevity into a genre that has often been criticized for its excessive length and lack of narrative cohesion. The film, centred around the life and missions of Wing Commander Tejas Gill, portrayed by the talented Kangana Ranaut, presents a storyline that strives to combine action, patriotism, and personal motivations within a compact runtime of 118 minutes. Despite Kangana Ranaut’s powerful portrayal and some engaging action sequences, “Tejas” struggles to achieve a seamless narrative flow, resulting in a somewhat disjointed cinematic experience.

The film’s thematic elements are tightly interwoven with its title, drawing connections to the protagonist’s identity and mission. From the aircraft to the operation, each aspect of the film resonates with the central theme of “Tejas,” highlighting the protagonist’s determination to combat terrorism and uphold national security. However, the rapid time jumps and fleeting character development hinder the audience’s ability to fully engage with the protagonist, ultimately leaving the narrative feeling incomplete and underexplored.

Amidst the fast-paced storytelling, the film attempts to touch upon various themes, including the gender divide within the armed forces and the challenges faced in national security. However, these elements fail to create a lasting impact, resulting in a narrative that lacks a cohesive and resonant message. Despite Kangana Ranaut’s commendable performance, the film struggles to strike a balance between its ambitious narrative and the need for a more comprehensive exploration of its themes.

While the action sequences, particularly the aerial attacks in the climax, are executed with precision and intensity, the overall narrative feels disjointed and hastily assembled. The film’s attempts to incorporate patriotic elements and subtle references to current sociopolitical issues add depth to the storyline without veering into overt jingoism, maintaining a balanced and restrained tone throughout.

Kangana Ranaut’s compelling portrayal of Tejas Gill is undoubtedly the film’s strongest asset, showcasing her versatility and dedication to her craft. Additionally, Anshul Chauhan’s portrayal of Afia, Tejas’s co-pilot, adds a layer of depth and engagement to the storyline, effectively complementing Ranaut’s on-screen presence.

Despite the commendable performances, “Tejas” struggles to soar high, weighed down by a narrative that feels rushed and disjointed, hindering its ability to fully resonate with audiences. While it presents glimpses of potential, the film ultimately falls short of delivering a cohesive and immersive cinematic experience.

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