In the world of biographical sports dramas, few movies pack as much emotional punch as this one, which chronicles the journey of a small-town girl who rises to international fame. Starring Priyanka Chopra in the titular role, Mary Kom is a 2014 biographical film directed by Omung Kumar that portrays the life of Indian boxer Mary Kom, who overcame numerous personal and professional challenges to become a world champion. Set in rural Manipur and extending to global arenas, the movie is both a sports drama and a story of grit and determination. It highlights the socio-cultural barriers that a woman faces in a male-dominated sport and the intense personal sacrifices required to achieve greatness.
The film follows Mary’s rise from humble beginnings in Manipur, where she is introduced to boxing by a local coach, to becoming a world champion. Her journey is anything but smooth, as she faces resistance from her family, societal prejudices, and even herself. Along the way, she meets Onler, who becomes her husband and an unwavering source of support. The story intricately weaves her struggles to balance her personal life, especially motherhood, with her passion for boxing. Through relentless training, sacrifices, and an undying belief in herself, Mary fights her way to the top, all while challenging the expectations of what women in sports, particularly from her region, can achieve.
One of the most striking aspects of the film is Priyanka’s performance. Taking on the role of such a celebrated figure, especially someone still active in their field, is no easy task. However, Priyanka delivers a powerful portrayal, not just capturing Mary Kom’s physicality but also her emotional core. The dedication she put into training for the role is evident in the boxing sequences, where she convincingly embodies the strength and agility of a professional athlete. Priyanka doesn’t just look the part; she also brings an emotional depth to Mary’s character, showing her vulnerability, frustration, and resilience. Her interactions with Onler, played by Darshan Kumar, highlight the complexities of balancing a career in sports with family life, a theme that resonates deeply throughout the movie.
The direction by Omung Kumar deserves mention for its sincerity. Rather than glamourizing the sport or the journey, he keeps it grounded in reality. The focus on Mary’s internal battles is well-paced, giving the audience time to connect with her on a deeper emotional level. While the boxing matches are choreographed with a mix of realism and cinematic flair, it’s the quieter moments—her conversations with her father, the times she doubts herself—that truly shine. Kumar’s ability to bring out these emotional beats without letting the film feel overly dramatic is commendable. However, there are moments when the narrative feels rushed, particularly in the second half, when the movie quickly moves through several key events in Mary’s career, making it feel a bit uneven in pacing.
Another highlight of the film is its cinematography by Keiko Nakahara, who captures the stark contrast between Mary’s rural upbringing and the global stage of boxing. The sequences in Manipur, with its lush landscapes, emphasize the simplicity of Mary’s origins, while the more intense boxing scenes, with their fast cuts and close-ups, bring the audience into the ring, almost feeling every punch. The camera work during the matches, especially in the final bout, is particularly effective, capturing both the physical and emotional intensity of the sport. There is a gritty, raw quality to these scenes that enhances the realism of Mary’s struggles.
Music, composed by Shashi Suman and Shivam Pathak, plays an important role in amplifying the film’s emotional impact. The background score complements the tense moments in the ring and the emotional highs and lows of Mary’s life. Songs like “Ziddi Dil” reflect Mary’s determination, perfectly matching her fiery spirit. The music helps in creating a larger-than-life atmosphere without overshadowing the film’s core narrative. That said, there are moments where the background score feels a bit heavy-handed, particularly during some of the more dramatic scenes, but it generally aligns well with the film’s tone.
The editing by Sanjay Leela Bhansali keeps the narrative focused, though, as mentioned earlier, the second half feels slightly rushed. Some crucial moments in Mary’s life are touched upon briefly, which could have benefitted from more development. For instance, her return to boxing after motherhood is portrayed, but the struggles of balancing her two worlds could have been explored in more depth. The film sacrifices some of these nuances to maintain a fast pace, which could be a drawback for viewers looking for a more detailed account of Mary’s challenges.
In terms of costume design and production value, the film does well to stay true to the characters and the environment. Mary’s transition from a village girl in simple attire to a world champion in her boxing gear is portrayed without unnecessary glamor. The focus remains on her as a fighter, with her costumes subtly changing to reflect her growing confidence and success.
Overall, Mary Kom is an inspiring and emotionally charged film that pays tribute to a real-life hero. Priyanka’s performance is the heart of the film, and her portrayal elevates the story, making it relatable and engaging. While the movie has its flaws, particularly in pacing, it succeeds in portraying the struggles and triumphs of one of India’s greatest sportswomen. It’s a film that celebrates resilience and determination and highlights the often overlooked challenges that women face in sports.
For fans of sports dramas or biographical films, this one is a must-watch. It doesn’t just focus on Mary Kom’s victories in the ring but also emphasizes the emotional and personal battles that make her journey all the more compelling. Whether you’re a fan of boxing or simply love stories of human resilience, Mary Kom is a film that will leave you feeling inspired and empowered.
