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Amar Singh Chamkila movie review: The tragic story of Amar Singh Chamkila, often dubbed as the Elvis of Punjabi music, who met his untimely demise in front of a crowd of onlookers, serves as a poignant reminder of the consequences that can ensue when one disregards morality and chooses the path of wrongdoing. While there have been previous cinematic biopics depicting various singers’ lives, the unique approach taken by ace filmmaker Imtiaz Ali in crafting this Netflix movie is what truly stands out.

Amar Singh Chamkila | Plot

A humble singer's brash lyrics ignite fame and fury across Punjab as he grapples with soaring success and brutal criticism before his untimely death.

Amar Singh Chamkila | Cast

Diljit Dosanjh- Chamkila

Parineeti Chopra- Amarjot

Amar Singh Chamkila: An In-Depth Review

The narrative unfolds with a young boy witnessing elders in his village engaging in voyeuristic behaviour, an experience that shapes Chamkila's inclination towards writing provocative songs from a tender age. Surprisingly, despite the collective blame placed on Chamkila for his actions, nobody mentioned the discourse surrounding the prevalent culture and discrimination that existed in Punjab during that period. 

Public gatherings called Akhadas, hosted by Punjabi singers, serve as a platform for men to openly demean women without facing consequences, a theme prominently depicted in the film. Both Amar Singh Chamkila and his wife Amarjot performed at such Akhadas, exclusively attended by men. Shockingly, even within the confines of their homes, women are deprived of the simple pleasure of listening to Chamkila's music, highlighting entrenched societal discrimination.

Chamkila's rise to fame was so immense that his songs became a focal point not only in Punjab but also overseas. He travelled to countries like Canada and Bahrain, captivating audiences and solidifying his status as one of the most prominent figures in the Punjabi music industry. While he attempted to sing more wholesome songs, they failed to resonate with the public, leading him to continue producing hits with cleverly crafted lyrics that captured the hearts of audiences across Punjab. It's remarkable to think that a regular Dalit Sikh boy, who once worked in a socks factory, would eventually ascend to the status of being dubbed the Elvis of Punjab. 

Amar Singh Chamkila | What Works

Right from the beginning, this Netflix movie grabs attention with its gripping portrayal of the murder of Chamkila and Amarjot. The scene is crafted with utmost detail, creating a sense of intense suspense that leaves you eagerly anticipating what will unfold next. The Murder sequence, shown in the end, deserves a special shoutout. The scenes depicting Amarjot being shot in the head and Chamkila being shot in the back are incredibly chilling and are sure to send shivers down your spine. Additionally, the inclusion of Akhadas in the movie provides a captivating insight into the rich culture of Punjab and offers a glimpse into how stars are born in the state.

Imtiaz Ali's distinct directorial style is evident throughout the film, seamlessly weaving Chamkila's story with finesse and precision. The incorporation of real clips and footage of Chamkila and Amarjot enhances the film's authenticity, fostering a deeper connection with the audience.

Diljit Dosanjh and Parineeti Chopra Shine In Chamkila

Diljit Dosanjh and Parineeti Chopra's performances shine brightly, embodying their respective characters with authenticity and depth. Dosanjh's portrayal of Chamkila, complete with his distinctive appearance and compelling acting, is particularly noteworthy. Similarly, Parineeti's rendition of Amarjot's character is commendable, capturing the essence of her mannerisms and style.

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Amar Singh Chamkila | Final Verdict

‘Amar Singh Chamkila’ emerges as an exemplary biographical film, characterised by standout performances, impeccable direction, and soothing music. Despite its lengthy runtime, the film's engaging execution renders it highly compelling and worth-watching. Dosanjh and Chopra's stellar performances, coupled with Ali's adept direction, ensure a captivating cinematic experience from start to finish.