Set against the intense political backdrop of the Gulf War in 1990, this riveting drama stars Akshay Kumar and Nimrat Kaur and explores the gripping tale of India’s largest civil evacuation from Kuwait. Directed by Raja Krishna Menon, this movie takes audiences into the heart of a war-torn Kuwait, where Indians caught in the crossfire of a foreign conflict must rely on their courage and resilience to survive. Based on a true story, it’s a remarkable mix of history and heroism, casting a spotlight on one man’s determination to bring his people back home safely.
The plot follows Ranjit Katyal (Akshay), a successful and somewhat self-centered Indian businessman living in Kuwait, who suddenly finds his comfortable life shattered by the Iraqi invasion. Although initially indifferent to the plight of his fellow Indians, Ranjit eventually becomes their anchor and hope, determined to lead over 170,000 stranded Indians to safety. He must navigate the dangerous new reality of war, facing both brutal opposition and moments of impossible choices as he unites the community and seeks a path to safety. Ranjit’s transformation from a businessman with no attachment to his nationality to a courageous leader is central to the narrative, capturing the human spirit and the resilience of those trapped in a foreign land with limited resources.
Akshay delivers a compelling and restrained performance, shedding his typical action-hero image for a more layered role. His portrayal of Ranjit’s transformation from a shrewd businessman to a reluctant hero is authentic and deeply affecting. Nimrat, playing Ranjit’s wife Amrita, brings grace and depth to her role, grounding the emotional core of the film. She plays a supportive yet strong-willed woman, and her chemistry with Akshay feels genuine, adding a personal touch to the overarching story of national rescue. The supporting cast, especially Purab Kohli and Kumud Mishra, also offer solid performances, contributing to the narrative’s tension and momentum.
The direction by Raja is commendable, as he balances historical detail with a human-centered narrative that avoids sensationalism. He carefully portrays the trauma and unpredictability of a war zone, using muted tones and strategic close-ups to emphasize the vulnerability of his characters. The cinematography by Priya Seth is both haunting and evocative, capturing Kuwait’s desolate streets and the looming threat of destruction with precision. The visual language enhances the atmosphere, transporting the audience to the chaos of occupied Kuwait. Even small details in Ranjit’s office or the devastated cityscape effectively immerse viewers in this harrowing reality, showing the impact of war on ordinary lives.
The film’s background score, composed by Amaal Mallik, adds to the sense of urgency and foreboding, without overdramatizing the scenes. The soundtrack, especially the song “Tu Bhoola Jise,” adds emotional weight to the narrative, subtly highlighting Ranjit’s journey and growing sense of responsibility. The music complements the story’s pace, resonating with the movie’s patriotic undertone without veering into sentimentality. The sound design and special effects are grounded, realistically capturing the sounds of chaos and destruction, which makes the war setting feel authentic rather than contrived.
One notable achievement of the film is its screenplay, which keeps the tension alive while focusing on Ranjit’s character development. The writing is economical, avoiding unnecessary diversions and sticking to the core theme of resilience and survival. Dialogue is used effectively to reflect the characters’ desperation and hope, such as Ranjit’s evolving views on duty and patriotism, which are revealed subtly through his interactions. The script also provides a balanced portrayal of different characters, allowing the supporting roles to shine while keeping the spotlight on Ranjit’s journey.
The production design captures the late 1980s era accurately, with costumes and props reflecting the time period authentically. The filmmakers have clearly invested in re-creating Kuwait’s landscape, as the visuals never feel out of place or mismatched with the historical setting. The costume design, particularly Ranjit’s transformation from well-dressed businessman to a man humbled by his circumstances, visually communicates his character arc and the gravity of the crisis.
This film is an impactful tribute to the strength of human resolve and the power of unity during a crisis. Akshay’s nuanced performance, supported by a strong cast, engaging direction, and well-curated cinematography, make it an emotionally charged and memorable cinematic experience. Raja manages to convey patriotism without resorting to clichés, making the story resonate beyond borders. It’s a movie that not only honors a historical event but also highlights the indomitable spirit of people facing adversity. For those seeking a story about bravery, resilience, and the power of hope, this one is highly recommended. It’s an emotionally intense journey that deserves to be experienced, especially for those interested in narratives that showcase real-life heroism.
