Sarsenapati Hambirrao Movie Review: The film depicts the tale of the fearless service of Hansaji Mohite aka Sarsenapati Hambirrao as a military head during Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Sambhaji Maharaj’s reign. It starts off with the appointment of Hansaji as Sarsenapati (military head) and includes historical chapters like a loot of Bahadurgad, conflict with the Portuguese and the battle of Wai province which cost him his life. The film also puts light on Soyrabai’s disliking of Sambhaji Maharaj and Anajipant’s betrayal.
Actors- Pravin Tarde, Gashmeer Mahajani, Mohan Joshi, Raqesh Bapat, Shruti Marathe, Upendra Limaye, Sunil Abhyankar, Devendra Gaikwad, Kshitish Date & Ramesh Pardeshi
Director- Pravin Tarde
Length- 2 hours 38 minutes
Hits- The film boasts of terrific performances. Pravin Tarde plays the titular character with a perfect dose of heroism and rawness. His natural comic sense too adds an entertaining element to his character. Special mention to his muscular transformation. Gashmeer Mahajani shines the most with his portrayal of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Sambhaji Maharaj. His shift from calm and composed Shivaji Maharaj to aggressive Sambhaji Maharaj is commendable. His regal aura keeps you hooked. All the other actors are good in their parts.
The production value of Sarsenapati Hambirrao is very high as it’s the most expensive Marathi film. Sets, location, costumes and props justify the scale of the period drama. Colour grading is good and suits the film really well. Action scenes are well designed and justify the grandeur.
Mahesh Limaye’s cinematography deserves a separate mention as it’s one of the strong pillars of the film. We get to see some fresh shots and one featuring Tarde, Gashmeer with the sun rising in the background is brilliantly captured. Limaye’s camerawork gives a royal feel, making it a visual treat for the audience.
Tarde’s hold on emotions is once again witnessed here as there are enough goosebumps and emotional moments in the film that keep you engaged. His first attempt at handling period film turns out to be a successful one.
Misses- Sarsenapati Hambirrao is 2 hours 38 minutes long but it feels like a 3-hour movie as the screenplay goes weak at several points. The film loses its grip due to overstretched emotional scenes and one or two unnecessary songs. Action scenes look grand and brutal but lack that impactful punch which would have otherwise created a memorable experience.
Music is passable and no song is worth remembering. There are some over the top action scenes which take away the realistic touch.
Is it worth watching?
Backed by strong performances, convincing efforts in filmmaking, terrific cinematography and thrilling moments, Sarsenapati Hambirrao deserves a watch in a theatre. It’s a big step toward the big-scale films in the Marathi film industry and deserves big audience support!
Popcorn score- 7 out of 10
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