In an industry where convincing action stars are few and far between, Sunny Deol marks his territory once more in ‘Jaat’. This gripping film, releasing in 2025, showcases Deol, age-defying and energetic at 67, bringing an old-school punch to an action-packed experience, reminiscent of his iconic roles in ‘Gadar’ and ‘Ghayal’. Directed by Gopichand Malineni, this film sharply contrasts with Salman Khan‘s ‘Sikandar’, where the fusion of solid storytelling and star power tilts the balance towards Deol’s cinematic triumph.
Central to the narrative is the story of Tunga Rana, portrayed by Randeep Hooda, who instills fear in villages with his tyrannical ways, backed by his brother Somulu, played by Viineet Kumar Singh. The dynamics shift with the entry of Deol’s character, who doesn’t reveal his identity until later in the movie. A brewing conflict ensures an exhilarating journey, underscoring why stardom needs a compelling story to truly soar, a lesson ‘Sikandar’ highlighted by faltering.
Director Gopichand, making his Hindi directorial debut, infuses ‘Jaat’ with his signature Madras Cut style, infusing the film with humor and engaging sequences. As Sunny remarks humorously, “Is dhai kilo ke haath ki goonj North ne suni hai, ab South sunega,” the narrative captures attention with wit and vibrant action.
The movie’s first half is a testament to tight storytelling and well-paced drama, drawing viewers into the realm of Deol’s heroics. However, the second half loses some sheen with an attempt to weave real-world issues into the storyline, creating a clutter that slightly dampens the earlier pace. The incorporation of social themes and empowerment, while well-meaning, occasionally overshadows the main narrative. Despite this, the journey remains a compelling watch, with audiences reveling in the tangible nostalgia of Deol’s unmatched energy.
Supporting performances lend credibility to ‘Jaat’. Randeep Hooda’s portrayal of the villain is simultaneously chilling and controlled, though the film’s exploration of a ‘real-life Jaat’ remains underdeveloped. Alongside him, Viineet Kumar Singh delivers a spirited performance as the deranged sidekick, adding to his growing repertoire of diverse roles. Regina Cassandra makes a strong impression as Bharathi, delivering a potent performance that resonates. Saiyami Kher appears in a more understated role, while Jagapathi Babu’s character doesn’t significantly impact the unfolding drama.
Thaman S’s background score underpins the film’s high-octane moments, from epic slow-motion sequences to scenes dripping with tension. His compositions elevate the emotional undertones, adding depth to Deol’s explosive screen presence.
‘Jaat’ revitalizes the magic of the big screen experience, reaffirming the capability of an engaging story to transcend narrative missteps. The grandeur of cinema is often best appreciated amidst the surround sound and darkness of a theatre, driving home the point that in the battle of action-packed narratives, Sunny Deol’s ‘Jaat’ leaves an indelible mark, outshining Salman Khan’s ‘Sikandar’.
