After a court case and a string of controversies, the movie dropped on Netflix with minimal promotion. It is a story inspired by true incidents and a case that was widely discussed.
Based on the 2013 Gujarati novel by Saurabh Shah, Karan P. Malhotra's film presents a dramatized account of the landmark 1862 Maharaj libel case. Maharaj filed a defamation case against social reformer and journalist Karsandas Mulji, who exposed his sexual predations disguised as acts of faith.
The story could have been written better. Nevertheless, it keeps you engrossed throughout the narrative. It sets the premise, establishes the characters, and helps you understand the public's blind faith in a godman. The courtroom drama should have been exciting and nail-biting, but with excessive cinematic liberties, it feels highly unrealistic, and the climax takes away the punch it could have delivered.
Set in 1960, the production value is top-notch, making the story highly believable. However, the movie lacks the emotional depth it was supposed to create, failing to make you root for any character. The songs are average and forgettable.
Junaid Khan, son of Aamir Khan, debuts with this movie and was the worst choice for such a strong character. He maintains a single expression throughout the film. On the other hand, Jaideep Ahlawat as Maharaj steals the show. His acting prowess and physical transformation are remarkable, and his calm demeanor makes him both menacing and evil. Shalini Pandey is decent, and surprisingly, Sharvari Wagh, a recent favorite of YRF, has done well, nailing the Gujarati accent.
The film had so much potential with a better screenplay and a stronger lead, but the opportunity is lost. Watch it to learn about the real-life heroes of our country; otherwise, it is just a half-baked work. #pranureviews #Maharaj #MaharajReview.
Based on the 2013 Gujarati novel by Saurabh Shah, Karan P. Malhotra's film presents a dramatized account of the landmark 1862 Maharaj libel case. Maharaj filed a defamation case against social reformer and journalist Karsandas Mulji, who exposed his sexual predations disguised as acts of faith.
The story could have been written better. Nevertheless, it keeps you engrossed throughout the narrative. It sets the premise, establishes the characters, and helps you understand the public's blind faith in a godman. The courtroom drama should have been exciting and nail-biting, but with excessive cinematic liberties, it feels highly unrealistic, and the climax takes away the punch it could have delivered.
Set in 1960, the production value is top-notch, making the story highly believable. However, the movie lacks the emotional depth it was supposed to create, failing to make you root for any character. The songs are average and forgettable.
Junaid Khan, son of Aamir Khan, debuts with this movie and was the worst choice for such a strong character. He maintains a single expression throughout the film. On the other hand, Jaideep Ahlawat as Maharaj steals the show. His acting prowess and physical transformation are remarkable, and his calm demeanor makes him both menacing and evil. Shalini Pandey is decent, and surprisingly, Sharvari Wagh, a recent favorite of YRF, has done well, nailing the Gujarati accent.
The film had so much potential with a better screenplay and a stronger lead, but the opportunity is lost. Watch it to learn about the real-life heroes of our country; otherwise, it is just a half-baked work. #pranureviews #Maharaj #MaharajReview.
