Remaking a fine crafted piece of cinematic art is a commendable attempt. Laal Singh Chaddha directed by Advait Chandan and written by Atul Kulkarni is one such film.
Laal Singh Chaddha is an Indian remake of 1994 Oscar winning film Forrest Gump. In an attempt to do justice to the original work by staying as close to it as possible, the makers have drawn parallels to a number of incidents. Overall, only the cultural setting is different. Since, Forrest Gump has its true fan following, many aspects of its remake fall in the spectrum of comparison which does not work very well for Laal Singh Chaddha.
Made out of pure love and labour, Laal Singh Chaddha is a story about a heartful boy who grows up to be a wholesome man. He outgrows his physical differences and becomes the fastest runner. He is the inspiration behind a successful business brand and much more. He adds all this to his glory just by adhering to the belief instilled in him by his mother that he is no less than anyone else. Laal has a low IQ and he is a slow learner but how he makes it his strength is worth admiring. He does not know everything and he does not yearn to know everything. Laal is the epitome of living. He goes beyond his capabilities and strength in achieving all that he wishes for just by handling one goal at a time. His personality is heart winning, for his ways of living life is simple. Because as we say, the more adversities and complexities life throws at you, the easier it will be for you to find fulfilment in little joys.
Laal Singh is characterized in a way that you cannot help but like him. The big eyes, full of wonder, slow learner and yet never short of enthusiasm. We also cannot help comparing it with Aamir Khan’s PK and it thus looks repetitive. Nonetheless, Laal is true to his own character.
Coming to Rupa’s character, Kareena Kapoor Khan is undoubtedly the best thing about the film. She is a naturale in her role. She is the love interest who lights up Laal and the screen everytime. Rupa has her own ambitions and struggles and she remains true to them. The character arc for Rupa has been built the best way. It is deep and connecting. You empathise with her as the story moves.
Laal Singh Chaddha has been made very cleverly and dedicatedly and it shows. The adding on of all the remarked national victories and wars is a bold and risky move. As much as it aims to give the audience an emotional touch and relative experience, at times it looks like too much to catch hold of. While the events in the backdrop are real and huge, the very zealous Laal Singh breezes his way out. It is a mix and match of an ideal person in a real situation.
They have a win-win when it comes to its screenplay and casting. Mona Singh, Naga Chaitanya and Manav Vij are all complimentary to the film’s core.
Laal Singh Chaddha is conventionally unintelligent and yet a wise man who becomes the hero of his own life. And if you haven’t watched Forrest Gump, this film is absolutely likeable for you and will give you a lot to ponder upon.
1 comment
Very well reviewed in a Positive Aspect ! Appreciated.