New Delhi: 'Swatantrya Veer Savarkar' delves into the life of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, a revolutionary, freedom fighter, social reformer, historian, and politician. Savarkar, who never bowed before the British, introduced the ideology of Hindutva, founded an independent group aimed at achieving a united India, and advocated not just non-violence but also readiness for violence to assert one's rights. Despite sharing the desire for self-rule, his ideology always differed from that of Mahatma Gandhi. The film narrates Savarkar's journey to becoming a hero and his struggles, portrayed by actor Ranadeep Hooda.
"Swatantrya Veer Savarkar" begins by tracing Savarkar's childhood, his family, and the influence of his elder brother Ganesh, which initially seems promising but soon shifts focus solely onto Savarkar. Shot in a dark setting, the film's atmosphere might unsettle viewers, adding a certain intensity to the narrative. However, the absence of names or contexts for many characters might confuse those not well-versed with history, leaving them wondering about their significance. Clocking in at three hours, the film includes several unnecessarily prolonged scenes, such as Savarkar's petition to the British government from prison. The depiction of torture endured by inmates in jail is chilling, evoking a sense of discomfort.
Acting
Ranadeep Hooda's portrayal of Savarkar is commendable, showcasing a remarkable transformation that might astonish viewers familiar with his previous roles in films like 'Highway,' 'Kick,' or 'Murder 3.' His performance triggers both emotions and laughter in various scenes. Amit Siial aptly essays the role of Savarkar's elder brother, while Madan Lal as Mritnal Dutt leaves a mark with his distinct performance. Ankita Lokhande's portrayal of Yamuna Bai is fresh and engaging, although Rajesh Khattar's depiction of Mahatma Gandhi lacks depth and fails to deliver the expected impact.
Direction
Directorial debutant Ranadeep Hooda presents a visually stunning film with notable cinematography, but the direction lacks finesse, particularly evident in the failure to trim unnecessary scenes. While it's no easy feat to balance acting and directing simultaneously, Hooda's performance doesn't falter under this pressure. However, the excessive focus on his character leaves secondary actors with less room to shine. Monologues featuring Hooda, while visually appealing, tend to become tedious over time, testing the audience's patience.
'Swatantrya Veer Savarkar' might appeal to history enthusiasts and those patient enough to endure its lengthy runtime. However, it falls short of being a must-watch due to its pacing issues and the lack of clarity in characterisation.