Ashutosh Gowariker seems too inspired by Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s way of making period films, feels Namrata Thakker.
Ashutosh Gowariker releases the trailer of his new historical Panipat, and it looks magnificent. But it gives out major Bajirao Mastani vibes.
Arjun Kapoor hasn’t given out a hit in the last two years and a lot is riding on his December release.
Co-starring Kriti Sanon, Sanjay Dutt and many more, Ashutosh treads familiar ground with this magnum opus.
So does the trailer live up to expectations? Yes, and no.
The three-minute trailer starts with a wide angle shot of the historic Panipat battle and the soldiers chanting ‘Har Har Mahadev’.
It’s beautifully composed and sets the tone for what’s coming up next.
Kriti’s voiceover introduces us to the Maratha empire and its Peshwa, Sadashiv Rao Bhau, played by Arjun.
His introductory scene is also well shot.
But from then on, everything will remind you of Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s dream project, Bajirao Mastani.
Even Arjun and Kriti’s look in the film will give you the déjà vu feeling.
You can’t help but compare them to Ranveer Singh and Priyanka Chopra’s characters from Bajirao Mastani.
Arjun Kapoor does shine in some scenes and makes his presence felt.
While his Peshwa performance may not seem as powerful as Ranveer’s, his earnest effort is visible.
But while he looks a warrior, but his diction is not authentic and his dialogue delivery is weak.
Kriti does not have much screen time but she seems pretty decent.
Like Arjun, it’s her first period film and with that in mind, it looks like Ms Sanon has done a good job.
Her spunky personality will grab your attention.
It will also be interesting to see her in the fight scenes.
Sanjay Dutt steals the thunder in the trailer, thanks to his villainous avatar.
Again, his look resembles Ranveer’s Khilji in Padmavat, but Dutt manages to bring his own magnetic personality to the table.
The trailer of Panipat is a visual treat but apart from the cinematography, nothing else makes a solid impact.
Once the trailer gets over, there is hardly any recall value.
Gowariker seems too inspired by Bhansali’s way of making period films.
The trailer may not be WOW but let’s hope that’s not the case with the film.
