MOVIE REVIEW
Mary Kom
Starring: Priyanka Chopra, Darshan Kumaar, Sunil Thapa
Producer: Sanjay Leela Bhansali
Director: Omung Kumar
Music Directors: Shashi Suman, Shivam
Let’s get one thing clear. Had Priyanka Chopra not played the title role in this fictionalized biopic, there would have been very little in the movie to excite the audience, Mary Kom’s achievements notwithstanding. The actress rises admirably to the challenge of portraying the boxing legend and packs quite a punch, her face a lethal combination of rage and vulnerability. Her accent, however, slips at times.
Art director turned director Omung Kumar has his heart in the right place, crafting his first film with care. Though the film wasn’t actually shot in Manipur, Kumar succeeds in creating a believable world. Where it falters is in the screenplay, with an almost inert first half. It only picks up momentum in the second half when Mary gets married and has twins. Also, it is melodramatic and akin to a Bollywood tearjerker at times, which is suicidal for a biopic. Sometimes the narrative seems too hurried.
The supporting cast is good with Darshan Kumaar as Mary’s unbelievably supportive husband, Onler, leading the pack. Really, someone should think of giving this guy a medal!
Despite its flaws, Mary Kom is a laudable attempt by a first time director. It is a perfectly watchable film but not a great film.
Watch it as the story of a woman’s grit and passion and you’ll have little to complain; watch it as the story of Olympic medallist Mary Kom and you’ll find yourself only complaining!
TOP 10 SONGS
1. Samjhawan (Humpty Sharma ki Dulhaniya)
2. Aata Majha Satakli (Singham Returns)
3. Tere Hoke Rahenge (Raja Natwarlal)
4. Jumme Ki Raat (Kick)
5. Ziddi Dil (Mary Kom)
6. Tera Naam Doon (Entertainment)
7. Galliyan (Ek Villain)
8. Baby Doll (Ragini MMS 2)
9. Muskurane (CityLights)
10. Saawan Aaya Hai (Creature 3D)
TOP 10 MOVIES
1. Mary Kom
2. Finding Fanny
3. Kick
4. Humpty Sharma ki Dulhaniya
5. Singham Returns
6. Mardaani
7. Ek Villain
8. Entertainment
9. Raja Natwarlal
10. Creature 3D
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