Is Dangal a Great Movie? Unpacking the Controversy

There's no shortage of opinions when it comes to Bollywood films, and often, the discussion comes back to the multi-award-winning film Dangal. While it's widely recognized as a hit, with extensive box office success, there's a lot of debate around whether it truly stands as a masterpiece. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this controversy, the factors that make it a memorable film, and whether it ultimately fits the criteria of a 'great' movie.

Over-Hyped Success: Dangal and the Box Office Phenomenon

The success of Dangal is undeniable. It has grossed over 887 crores (approximately $1.2 billion) at the box office, making it one of the highest-grossing Indian films of all time. This staggering success has led to questions about its quality. Films like Ghajini, which broke the 100 crore barrier, were not considered as exceptional by many. While Dangal is perhaps not as far removed from greatness as Ghajini, it also does not quite achieve greatness.

Acting and Production: Aamir Khan's Dedication

The film's success is not just attributed to the storyline. Aamir Khan's performance stands out as a testament to his immense dedication. His physical transformation from a fat body to lean and athletic showcases his sheer determination and courage. The behind-the-scenes efforts are highlighted in numerous videos, where his journey from flabs to abs is chronicled. This not only added authenticity to the film but also set a benchmark for the industry.

Aamir Khan's commitment is further evident in the Making of The Dhaakad Girls video, which showcases the immense sacrifice, blood, and sweat that went into creating one of the highest-grossing films of 2016. The production values and the training of the actors played a crucial role in the overall success.

Authenticity and Sportsmanship

One of the key selling points of Dangal is its authenticity. The depiction of wrestling is highly realistic and non-fictional. The scenes have been meticulously researched, with the actors undergoing significant training to portray the sport accurately. This attention to detail contributes significantly to the film's success. The movie not only highlighted the importance of sports but also brought attention to issues like gender discrimination, inspiring real-life changes in the society.

The film touches on several themes, including parenting, patriotism, and feminism, creating a broad appeal. The public found themselves genuinely engaged with the characters and the narrative, especially Geeta Phogat, whose performance was truly inspiring. It was not just an entertaining film but one that resonated with a wide audience on multiple levels.

Controversies: Could It Be Better?

Despite its critical and commercial success, Dangal has not been without its critics. The direction and pacing of the film, particularly in the second half, have been questioned. Some critics argue that certain scenes were repetitive and that the dramatization became sluggish and less impactful. These issues, while not diminishing the film's overall quality, do highlight areas where the film could have been improved.

The heart-touching moments and the struggle scenes are commendable, but they needed a more compelling narrative to tie them together. The film's ultimate purpose was commendable—highlighting gender discrimination and encouraging women to participate in sports—but it did not quite create an everlasting impact that would be felt generations later.

Conclusion: Is Dangal a Great Movie?

In conclusion, while Dangal is undoubtedly a great film, there is a debate about whether it should be classified as one of the genre's 'great' movies. It is certainly above average and has made a significant impact on both the box office and society. However, the factors that contribute to a 'great' film, such as a compelling narrative, memorable characters, and a thought-provoking ending, have not been fully realized in Dangal.

The controversy around the movie is part of its legacy. It is a film that has set a new standard for sports movies in Bollywood and continues to be a source of inspiration for many. But as with all great discussions, the debate on whether Dangal is truly a 'great' movie will continue, enriching our understanding of what it takes to create a truly exceptional film.