Jawan is a 2023 Indian Hindi-language action thriller film directed by Atlee in his Hindi film debut. It is produced by Gauri Khan and Gaurav Verma under Red Chillies Entertainment. The film stars Shah Rukh Khan in a dual role as father and son who team up to rectify corruption in society. Nayanthara, Vijay Sethupathi, Deepika Padukone (billed as a special appearance), Priyamani and Sanya Malhotra appear in supporting roles.
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| Image from bollywoodhungama.com |
Plot
The film’s plot revolves around Vikram (Shah Rukh Khan), a man who is driven by a desire to rectify societal wrongs. He embarks on a mission to obliterate Kalee (Vijay Sethupathi), a monstrous outlaw who has caused extreme suffering to many. Vikram also has to contend with a personal vendetta, as he is determined to keep a promise he made many years ago.
Production
Jawan was announced in November 2021, with Shah Rukh Khan and Atlee attached to direct and star in the film, respectively. Nayanthara was cast as the female lead in February 2022, followed by Vijay Sethupathi in March 2022. Deepika Padukone was cast in a special appearance in April 2022. Priyamani and Sanya Malhotra were cast in supporting roles in May 2022.
The film’s principal photography began in June 2022 and concluded in August 2023. It was shot in various locations across India, including Mumbai, Pune, Chennai, and Hyderabad. The film’s action sequences were choreographed by Anbu Arivu, who previously worked with Atlee on Mersal (2017) and Bigil (2019).
Release
Jawan was initially planned for release on 2 June 2023, but was postponed due to unfinished post-production work. It was theatrically released on 7 September 2023 in standard, IMAX, 4DX and other premium formats, coinciding with Janmashtami.
Box office
Jawan set several box-office records for a Hindi film, overtaking those set by Khan’s previous release Pathaan (2023). It became the highest-grossing Hindi film of all time in India, with a gross collection of over ₹500 crore. It also became the highest-grossing Hindi film of all time overseas, with a gross collection of over ₹1000 crore.
Critical reception
Jawan received critical acclaim from critics who praised its cast performances, screenwriting, action sequences and musical score. Critics particularly praised Khan’s dual performance, Nayanthara’s performance, Atlee’s direction and Anbu Arivu’s action choreography.
Accolades
Jawan was nominated for 12 awards at the 67th Filmfare Awards, including Best Film, Best Director for Atlee, Best Actor for Khan, Best Actress for Nayanthara, Best Supporting Actor for Sethupathi, Best Supporting Actress for Padukone, Best Music Director for Anirudh Ravichander, Best Lyricist for Javed Akhtar, Best Male Playback Singer for Arijit Singh, and Best Female Playback Singer for Shreya Ghoshal. It won 7 awards, including Best Film, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Supporting Actor, Best Music Director, and Best Lyricist.
Legacy
Jawan is considered to be one of the greatest Hindi films of all time. It is a landmark film in Khan’s career, as it marks his first dual role performance. The film is also a testament to Atlee’s directorial skills, as he is able to successfully blend action, thriller, and social commentary in the film.
Impact
Jawan has had a significant impact on Indian cinema. It has shown that it is possible to make a high-octane action thriller with a strong social message. The film has also inspired a new generation of filmmakers to experiment with different genres and themes.
Conclusion
Jawan is a well-made and entertaining film with a strong social message. It is a must-watch for fans of Shah Rukh Khan and action thrillers in general.