Bollywood heartthrob Kartik Aaryan’s latest movie, Chandu Champion, has hit the theaters and is already making waves for all the right reasons. Directed by the visionary filmmaker Kabir Khan, the film is a compelling narrative of resilience, determination, and the human spirit. It is based on the true story of para-athlete Chandraprakash ‘Chandu’ Srivastava and marks a significant milestone in Kartik’s ever-evolving career. Here’s an in-depth review of the Chandu Champion movie.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Chandu Champion Cast: Kartik Aaryan, Vijay Raaz, Bhuvan Arora, Rajpal Yadav, Sonali Kulkarni
A Story Worth Telling
Chandu Champion movie tells the extraordinary tale of Chandu, a man who defied all odds to emerge as a true champion. After a life-altering incident leaves him paralyzed, Chandu refuses to succumb to his circumstances. Instead, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery, proving that physical limitations cannot hold back the spirit of a determined individual.
The film’s narrative is powerful, and Kabir Khan deserves applause for bringing Chandu’s story to the big screen. Moreover, the script beautifully balances the emotional weight of Chandu’s struggles with the inspirational highs of his victories. It’s a story that needed to be told, and Chandu Champion does justice to the legacy of its real-life hero.
Kartik Aaryan’s Stellar Performance
Kartik Aaryan, known for his charming roles in romantic comedies, delivers a career-defining performance as Chandu. His portrayal is both sincere and moving, capturing the essence of a man who refuses to give up, no matter the challenges thrown his way. Kartik’s physical transformation for the role is impressive, but it’s his emotional depth that truly stands out.
From the despair of losing his mobility to the triumph of winning on the global stage, Kartik navigates Chandu’s journey with finesse. Moreover, his performance is nuanced, heartfelt, and, most importantly, believable. Kartik successfully sheds his boy-next-door image, proving that he has the range to take on more demanding roles.
Kabir Khan’s Vision
Kabir Khan, known for his knack for storytelling, directs Chandu Champion with a fine balance of sensitivity and vigor. The film doesn’t shy away from showing the harsh realities of Chandu’s life, but it also never loses sight of the hope and determination that defines his journey. Kabir’s direction ensures that the audience is emotionally invested in Chandu’s story from start to finish.
The film’s pacing is steady, with just the right amount of tension and release. Besides that, the training montages, competitive scenes, and moments of introspection are all woven together seamlessly. Kabir Khan’s ability to keep the narrative engaging without resorting to melodrama is commendable.
Chandu Champion Box Office Collection
Since its premiere, the film has attracted a lot of attention, which has helped it earn excellent box office receipts. With a first-day gross of almost ₹4.75 crores, the film had a great start. At the box office, Chandu Champion has so far made over ₹89.23 crores worldwide and ₹75.48 crores in India.
Cinematography and Music
The cinematography in Chandu Champion is top-notch. The film’s visuals effectively capture both the intensity of sports and the quieter, more intimate moments of Chandu’s personal life. The use of close-ups during the emotional scenes helps convey the gravity of Chandu’s experiences, while the wide shots of athletic events highlight the scale of his achievements.
The music, composed by Pritam, complements the narrative perfectly. Additionally, the soundtrack is inspiring without being overwhelming, and the background score adds to the emotional impact of the film. The songs, though few, are well-placed and enhance the storytelling.
What Works
- Inspiring Storyline: Chandu Champion tells a story that resonates on a universal level, reminding us all of the power of perseverance.
- Kartik Aaryan’s Performance: Kartik delivers a performance that is both heartfelt and powerful, marking a significant milestone in his career.
- Kabir Khan’s Direction: Kabir Khan brings Chandu’s story to life with sensitivity and a strong sense of narrative control.
- Cinematography and Music: The film’s visuals and soundtrack work together to create an immersive cinematic experience.
What Could Have Been Better
- Pacing Issues: At times, the film’s pacing feels a bit slow, particularly in the first half. A tighter edit could have kept the momentum going throughout.
- Predictability: While the film is based on a true story, some of the narrative beats feel familiar, making parts of the story predictable.
Final Verdict
Chandu Champion is more than just a sports drama; it’s a story of courage, resilience, and the indomitable human spirit. Kartik Aaryan’s portrayal of Chandu is both inspiring and touching, making this film a must-watch for fans and newcomers alike. Despite a few pacing issues, the film succeeds in delivering a powerful message that will stay with you long after the credits roll.
If you’re looking for a movie that combines heart, drama, and inspiration, Chandu Champion should be at the top of your list. It’s a testament to the fact that true champions are made, not born, and that determination can conquer even the most formidable obstacles.
FAQs for Chandu Champion (2024)
What is Chandu Champion about?
Chandu Champion is a biographical sports drama about Chandraprakash ‘Chandu’ Srivastava, a para-athlete who overcame immense challenges to become a champion.
Who plays the lead role in Chandu Champion?
Kartik Aaryan stars as Chandu Srivastava, showcasing his versatility in this serious and challenging role.
Who directed Chandu Champion?
Kabir Khan. He is also known for his emotionally compelling films like Bajrangi Bhaijaan and 83.
What makes Chandu Champion a must-watch?
The film is a must-watch for its inspiring story, Kartik Aaryan’s powerful performance, and Kabir Khan’s impactful direction.
What genre does Chandu Champion fall under?
Chandu Champion is a biographical sports drama, blending inspiration, struggle, and triumph.
What preparation did Kartik Aaryan undergo for his role?
Kartik Aaryan undertook extensive physical and emotional training to authentically portray Chandu Srivastava.
What was Chandu Champion’s release date?
Chandu Champion was released in June 2024. The film quickly garnered attention for its powerful storytelling and Kartik Aaryan’s standout performance.
When will Chandu Champion be available on OTT platforms?
The official OTT release date for Chandu Champion is 9 August 2024. Typically, movies are available on streaming platforms a few weeks to a couple of months after their theatrical release.
On which OTT platform Chandu Champion is available?
Chandu Champion is going to be released on Amazon Prime Video.