120 Bahadur is one of the most powerful and emotional war dramas of recent years, which pays a memorable tribute to Major Shaitan Singh Bhati and 120 brave soldiers of Charlie Company, 13 Kumaon Regiment, who fought the famous battle of Rezang La on November 18, 1962. Courage, strength and steadfast spirit.
120 A strong start by Bahadur
The film opens with a tear-jerking voice-over by Amitabh Bachchan narrating the political climate of the 1960s, the repeated belief in “Hindi-Chini Bhai-Bhai” and the terrible deception that led to the Sino-Indian war. His voice sets the tone for the story which is the epic tale of one of the bravest final stands in Indian military history.
The first half begins with the personal memories of radio operator Ramachandra Yadav, played by Sapush Walia, which frames the story. His memories take the audience to the snow-covered region of Ladakh, where 120 soldiers of Charlie Company were stationed. Initially, the film seems to focus more on Farhan Akhtar’s role as Major Shaitan Singh, making it seem like the film revolves entirely around his leadership. But as the story progresses, it changes perspective completely, proving that this is not just the story of one man, it is the collective story of 120 fearless warriors who fought against over 3,000 Chinese soldiers.
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120 Bahadur’s first half is slow and steady
The film begins with the memories of a radio operator, played by Sapush Walia. From his perspective and words, we dive into the difficult and painful battle of Rezang La that immortalized 120 soldiers. In the first half, director Rajneesh ‘Raazi’ Ghai tries to introduce us to the personal lives of the soldiers, their families and their emotional world. In the beginning, Amitabh Bachchan’s voice already sets the mood. This is a commendable initiative, because wars are not won with guns and bullets alone; But emotions, relationships, and motivations also battle with the military.
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However, the screenplay falls flat and scenes that could have been more emotional remain superficial. A great example of this is the song filmed on Shaitan Singh Bhati (Farhan Akhtar) and his wife (Raashi Khanna); It disrupts the flow of the story and seems artificial, rather than enhancing the emotional impact. Although there is only one song in the first half of the film, it would have been better if it hadn’t, as Shaitan Singh Bhati’s character is not capable of making the required connection. The supporting cast is so impressive that the interest in the story grows with each dialogue, yet their backgrounds remain blurred in front of the words ‘Ahir’, ‘Rewari’ and ‘Rajasthani’.
The first half seems to find itself, as if it can’t decide whether it’s a film about human emotions or about war, as the story focuses neither entirely on emotion nor on the nuances of war. Apart from the screenplay, the writing in this nearly two-hour film is commendable: it is not just about Shaitan Singh Bhati, but about his 120 brave men. There is no doubt that Farhan Akhtar was given equal screen time to the other actors, and perhaps that is why they completely overshadowed Farhan, even though his looks were equally strong. The desperation, sadness, passion and fighting spirit on their faces was perfect.
In the second half of 120 Bahadur, the film comes into its own.
In the second half, as the story moves to the battlefield, the film gets its real momentum and excitement. The head-to-head confrontation between the armies of India and China gives the film an edge that was missing in the first half. The fight scenes are powerful, full of emotion and sometimes so raw that the audience can feel their intensity. The courage of the soldiers, their sacrifice and their determination to fight till their last breath is heart-wrenching. Here, the film does its job, making you feel the gravity and pain of the battle. A particularly beautiful moment is when the Chinese soldiers also honor Shaitan Singh. This scene brings back the lost emotional balance of the film and captivates the audience. The second half song “Yaad Aate Hain” also doesn’t distract you, but connects you with the story and leaves an emotional impact. There are several scenes in the second half of the film that are emotional and take you back to that era.
120 Bahadur’s cinematography is its USP
120 Bahadur’s real strength lies in its visual treatment. Tetsuo Nagata’s cinematography depicts the harsh cold and desolate mountains of Ladakh in such a way that the viewer is immersed in those conditions. From the fast-paced fight scenes to every close-up, every expression is heart-pounding. Cinematography is an important part of the film that makes you forget all the flaws, connects you with the story and makes you feel like you are there, experiencing the story. The beauty of Ladakh is shown in the film in such a way that the audience is immediately drawn to it. The decision to shoot on real locations proves to be the right decision on the part of the director as the reality of war is shown not only through facial expressions but also through the ground on which the battles were fought.
Performance in 120 brave
Farhan Akhtar
Farhan Akhtar has given a brilliant and highly respectable performance as Major Shaitan Singh Bhati. He brings a quiet strength to the role, playing a leader who inspires not with lofty words but with courage, humility and sacrifice. Her emotional control and poise make her performance one of the best of her career.
touch
As the radio operator Ramchandra Yadav, Sapush Walia is excellent. Her character is the film’s emotional anchor, guiding the audience through memories, thoughts and trauma. His acting has sincerity, innocence and depth, which makes him one of the most special actors in the film.
Rashi Khanna
Rashi Khanna strikes an emotional balance between warmth and vulnerability. His scenes depict the silent sacrifices made by soldiers’ families without drama. She supports the story beautifully.
Vivan Bhathena
Vivan Bhathena brings heart and enthusiasm to his role. His association with fellow soldiers seems natural and believable, adding life to emotional scenes.
Ejaz Khan
Ejaz Khan plays the commanding officer of the battalion, a character who oversees and guides the company with maturity and authority. He doesn’t fight on the battlefield, but his leadership, calm demeanor and strategic presence make him an essential part of the story. The supporting cast playing the Charlie Company soldiers shine with their sincerity and commitment. Each soldier is given an identity and a purpose, so that the audience can connect with them emotionally before the final battle begins.
How was directing and writing?
Directed by Rajneesh ‘Raazi’ Ghai, the son of an Indian Army officer, the film has benefited greatly from his understanding of military life and the reality of the battlefield. His decision to shoot on real locations instead of green screens is very realistic. Rajeev G. Menon’s writing is strong and respectful. It depicts the bravery of the soldiers without exaggeration, and balances history with emotion.
Overall decision
120 Bahadur is not just a movie, it is a heartfelt tribute to the courage of Major Shaitan Singh Bhati and the 120 soldiers of Charlie Company. It combines powerful performances, stunning visuals, emotional music and a compelling story to create a deeply moving experience. It is a must watch for every Indian, every history buff and every viewer who loves real heroic stories.
Movie Name:120 brave
Critic Rating:4/5
release date:November 21, 2025
Director:Rajneesh Ghai
style:war drama