By Arshnoor
The recent Netflix release Amar Singh Chamkila is not just a movie, but a repressed
story that didn’t go beyond the people of Punjab. I avidly remember how passionately
my father talked and told stories of the beginning of the era where Punjabi music grew
and then never settled back! Chamkila was one of the key characters. The movie gave
flashback of Punjab which struggled hard between the shackles of Government and the
zealots. What also came to my mind while watching this larger than life of a story was
its coincidental moments with Sidhumoosewala who passed away back in 2022.
Overall, it was a good watching experience!
Synopsis
The movie revolves around the lives of the dynamic duo of Amar Singh Chamkila, ‘the
Elvis of Punjab’ and Amarjot. The biographical sketch makes sure it tells the story in an
authentic and pure way without any exaggeration and I admire Imtiaz Ali for the same!
Yes, the man had his own flaws and Ali makes sure to embrace them in them movie.
The film sheds light on a true tragedy that took place in the late 1980s when Chamkila
and Amarjot were shot dead by masked gunmen. The killings followed anonymous
threats directed at the singer for his controversial lyrics that often-objectified women.
Acting
Diljit Dosanjh, known for his comedic roles and lighthearted comedy gives his sure shot
best. He did not look exactly alike but his convention in putting efforts make sure one
sticks to the seat and appreciate his skills. What came as an out and loud surprise was
Parineeti Chopra- the accent, body language, the songs; everything about her as
Amarjot added stars to the film. The supporting cast all did their best and made the
movie a great watch.
Music
I think it’s high time we all realise, music means~ A R RAHMAN, the film would have
gone blank had there been no Rahman music. AR Rahman’s background music and
Diljit’s rustic vocals maintain the film’s momentum. It added what sugar adds to cake,
pure bliss. Ishq Mitaye and Vida Karo reflected the audience’s mind, the composition,
the background score, to bring the authenticity of the high-pitched voices of Chamkila n
Amarjot, all hail A R Rahman!
Rating
3.5/ 5, a film that is what we watch after a hectic day and take along memories of the
old school Punjabi music!
