Maharaj Review: A Missed Opportunity Despite a Promising Premise

Normally, a nepo-kid in Bollywood gets a grandiose launch filled with extravagant publicity and hype. That's why it's kinda surprising to see Aamir Khan's beta Junaid get such a muted release in Maharaj; a period drama hurriedly released on Netflix without even a trailer!!!

Based on the real life 1862 libel case between an influential religious head and a journalist, Maharaj basically promotes the same message as Aamir's blockbuster PK (2014) : You can have a direct connect with your God. There's no need for any intermediary (read fake Godmen). I agree too!!

The subject is real and still relevant; the setting and technical aspects are first rate, but the movie falters badly due to its dull and unimaginative execution. A temple priest exploiting women (including minors) under the garb of tradition could easily make for a compelling hard hitting narrative but that opportunity is withered away here. Moreover, the all important court case is pushed to the last half hour or lesser. Worse, the unfolding climax is absolutely pheeka!!

Jaideep Ahlawat is truly rock solid as the godman satisfying his carnal pleasures in name of tradition. He speaks volumes through his wicked smile rather than loud angry words. Sharvari Wagh, fresh from the success of Munjya, leaves a mark even in an extended cameo. As for Junaid Khan, all I can say is that the gentleman hasn't inherited Aamir's acting genes. Sorry Papa!!

Ratings on some key aspects* :
1. Acting : 3/5
2. Direction : 1.5/5
3. Music : 2/5
4. Story, Screenplay and Dialogue : 2/5
5. Cinematography : 3.5/5
6. Editing : 2/5
7. Costume Design : 3.5/5
8. Special Effects and VFX : 3.5/5
9. Action : NA
10. Production Quality : 4/5

#SNRating for #Maharaj : 2 stars out of 5.

- Sumeet Nadkarni

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* - The overall film rating is not a simple average of all ratings on key aspects but a weighted average of the ratings where some crucial aspects (like direction, acting, story and screenplay etc) are assigned more weightage than others.

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#SNRatings barometer:
1 star = Poor
1 & 1/2 star = Below average/ Avoidable
2 stars = Average
2 & 1/2 stars = Above average/ Risk it
3 stars = Good enough/ Endurable
3 & 1/2 stars = Definitely worth a watch
4 stars = Very good
5 stars = Masterpiece/ Outstanding.

2024 SNRatings. 

About Sumeet Nadkarni:

Sumeet Nadkarni is a Chartered Accountant by profession and a self-styled film critic by passion. He reviews Bollywood movies and OTT releases on his popular personal blog #SNRatings. His film-related articles have appeared in leading publications in India. With a keen eye for cinematic detail and a knack for insightful critiques, Sumeet brings a unique perspective to the world of Indian cinema. Follow him for the latest Bollywood insights and unbiased film reviews. #FilmCritique #BollywoodReviewer