Film - Chhota Bheem and the Curse of Damyaan
Director – Rajiv Chikala
Cast - Yagya Bhasin, Anupam Kher, Makrand Deshpande, Sanjay Bishnoi
Star: 4
Rajiv Chilaka’s "Chhota Bheem and the Curse of Damyaan" whisks viewers away on a journey through time, but does it captivate beyond the realm of children's imaginations?
The plot follows the fearless Chhota Bheem, voiced with earnestness by Yagya Bhasin, as he ventures back in time to confront the menacing Damyaan, played convincingly by Sumit Keshri. Alongside a colorful cast of characters, including the spirited Chutki (Aashriya Mishra) and the mischievous Kalia (Kabir Sajid Shaikh), Bheem embarks on an adventure to save Sonapur from the grips of darkness.
Niraj Vikram and Sridisha Dilip’s screenplay, while tailored for young audiences, lacks the depth to fully engage adult viewers. The narrative unfolds with a simplicity that may charm its target demographic but falls short in offering substantial excitement or intrigue for older audiences—dialogues, though serviceable, lean towards the routine rather than the memorable.
Performances vary, with Bhasin delivering a commendable portrayal of the titular hero and Keshri embodying the villainous Damyaan with sinister flair. Anupam Kher's portrayal of Guru Shambu is a standout, bringing wisdom and gravitas to the role. Makarand Deshpande and the rest of the supporting cast, including Navneet Kaur, Megha Chilaka, and Mukesh Chhabra, add depth and vibrancy to the story.
Rajiv Chilaka, the creator of Chhota Bheem, transitions his vision seamlessly from animation to live-action. His direction ensures that the film remains true to its roots even as it offers a brand-new cinematic experience. The visual effects are impressive, elevating the fantastical elements of the story and creating a vivid, immersive world.
Raghav Sachar’s musical score, while adequate, lacks standout moments, and song picturizations feel formulaic. Technical aspects such as cinematography and production design are competent but fail to elevate the viewing experience.
The film's VFX is top-notch, particularly in the action sequences. They bring epic battles and mystical landscapes to life.
"Chhota Bheem and the Curse of Damyaan" offers a straightforward adventure tailored for its young audience, with enough action and humor to entertain children. However, its simplistic narrative and lackluster execution may leave adult viewers longing for more depth and excitement. While it may find favor with families seeking wholesome entertainment, its appeal beyond the realm of children is limited.