120 Bahadur first reviews are finally out, and the early response has been overwhelmingly positive for the Farhan Akhtar and Raashii Khanna–starrer war drama. As critics and selected audiences watched the first preview screenings, social media began filling with reactions calling the film “emotionally gripping,” “visually stunning,” and “one of the finest war dramas made in recent years.” The strong wave of 120 Bahadur suggests that the film is set to become one of 2025’s most impactful cinematic releases.
The war drama, directed by Navjot Gulati, unfolds the untold story of real-life heroes who fought with extraordinary courage. Farhan Akhtar’s intense performance and Raashii Khanna’s emotionally rich portrayal appear to be standout highlights, according to early viewers.
Early Critics’ Response Suggests a Powerful War Epic
Many critics described the film as a rare combination of action, realism, and emotional depth. The 120 Bahadur repeatedly mention that the storytelling does not rely on exaggerated patriotism but focuses on human emotions, sacrifices, and battlefield authenticity.
Industry insiders praised:
- Raw, realistic war sequences
- Deep emotional connection with characters
- Strong chemistry between Farhan Akhtar and Raashii Khanna
- High-quality production and gripping background score
- Cinematography that elevates the entire narrative
What Reviewers Are Saying: Key Highlights
1. Powerful Storytelling & Patriotism
According to early reviews, 120 Bahadur delivers a strong emotional core woven into its war narrative. The Times of India calls it “powerful”, noting how the film honours its historical heroes with sincerity and respect. The Times of India
A reviewer from Daily Jagran gave it 4.5/5, describing it as a “complete package of deshbhakti,” capturing the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers faithfully. The Daily Jagran
Javed Akhtar, veteran lyricist and writer, praised the film highly, calling it a “great film” even though he often critiques Farhan Akhtar’s work toughly. Mid-day+1
2. Stunning Visuals & Cinematography
Technical aspects are a big winner so far. OTTPlay’s review mentions “exceptional cinematography” and “impactful background score,” highlighting how the battle sequences are crisp and beautifully shot. OTTPlay
Filmibeat points to the work of cinematographer Tetsuo Nagata as “beautifully shot in the valleys of Ladakh,” saying the landscapes themselves carry emotional weight alongside the characters. FilmiBeat
Even in moments of tension, the visuals provide a strong sense of place — the chilling mountain terrain, the sense of isolation, and the vastness of the battlefield are all captured with technical finesse.
3. Emotional Depth & Soldier Camaraderie
Many reviews stress how 120 Bahadur builds emotional connection through its ensemble cast. India Today praises the younger actors — Sparsh Walia, Ankit Siwach, Sahib Verma, and Dhanveer Singh — who embody the soldiers with authenticity. India Today
A particularly touching scene mentioned by reviewers: a recruit quietly asking, “Have you ever killed someone?” This sort of dialogue humanizes the soldiers, reminding viewers that behind uniform and rifle, there were real people with fears, hopes, and regrets. India Today
Director Razneesh “Razy” Ghai reportedly said in interviews that filming those emotional sequences was among the most challenging, but also the most rewarding — and that they turned out exactly as he hoped. Mid-day
4. Performances: Strong But with Small Flaws
Farhan Akhtar as Major Shaitan Singh Bhati earns praise for his earnest, grounded portrayal. Filmibeat notes that he “avoids unnecessary drama” and brings a sense of restraint to his role, though in some scenes, his dialogue delivery feels slightly off. FilmiBeat
Raashii Khanna, playing his wife, is also commended despite limited screen time. Her emotional moments — especially in the context of loss and separation — leave a subtle yet meaningful impact. FilmiBeat
The supporting cast — particularly the younger actors — receives high marks for camaraderie and authenticity, helping the film feel like more than just a war spectacle.
5. Music and Sound Design
Sound plays a major role in amplifying 120 Bahadur’s emotional depth. Pinkvilla’s review points out how Satish Raghunathan’s background score intensifies war scenes with metallic clanks and gunshots, creating a tense auditory atmosphere. PINKVILLA
Filmibeat also mentions the track “Nikle Hain Hum Ghar Se” as soulful, though not overbearing, adding to the film’s emotional texture rather than distracting from its narrative. FilmiBeat
Criticisms: What the Film Might Be Missing
- Pacing & Emotional Climax
According to Pinkvilla, the first half of the film feels familiar and somewhat formulaic, sticking closely to traditional war-drama tropes. PINKVILLA
India Today’s reviewer suggests that some emotional beats feel engineered, like a flashback meant to tug heartstrings but landing just short of deeply affecting scenes. India Today - Farhan’s Performance
While praised for sincerity, some critics feel Farhan’s delivery lacks full impact — particularly in commanding or motivational moments. India Today
His calm portrayal works in intimate moments, but reviewers argue that in climactic war sequences, the role demands more forceful presence. FilmiBeat - Narrative Focus
According to critics, while the film celebrates heroism, it sometimes struggles to balance individual backstories with large-scale battle sequences. This leads to moments that feel either too personal or too broad, rather than weaving both strands seamlessly. PINKVILLA
Moreover, some audience voices (reflected on Reddit) say the title or portrayal may not represent all communities involved in Rezang La, sparking debate about historical accuracy. Reddit
Context & Background: Why This Film Matters Right Now
120 Bahadur is not just a commercial war drama — it’s deeply rooted in national history. The film recounts the Battle of Rezang La, where 120 Indian soldiers from the 13 Kumaon Regiment made a heroic stand during the 1962 Sino-Indian War. The Economic Times
Major Shaitan Singh Bhati, whom Farhan Akhtar portrays, is a celebrated hero of that battle. The movie aims to revive that legacy and give cinematic life to a chapter that many in modern India may not fully remember. The Economic Times
Director Razneesh Ghai, who has a personal connection to the military, has said that the film is intended as a tribute rather than a stylised action movie. Mid-day
However, the film has not escaped criticism: a PIL filed in a high court accuses the producers of distorting the historical truth by allegedly underplaying the contributions of certain regimental communities. The Times of India+1
Despite the controversy, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has cleared it without cuts, awarding it a U/A certificate and allowing the film to release as intended. The Times of India
Public & Industry Reaction: Early Buzz
- Javed Akhtar, who is known for his critical voice, praised the film’s emotional depth — a significant endorsement. Mid-day
- Rohit Sharma, the Indian cricketer, described the film’s trailer as a reminder of “what true bravery looks like,” amplifying excitement among patriotic viewers. The Times of India
- Karan Johar also lauded the teaser, calling it “spectacular” — a comment that elevated expectations in Bollywood circles. The Times of India
Final Verdict: Is 120 Bahadur Worth Watching?
Based on the first reviews, 120 Bahadur appears to be a compelling, heartfelt war drama that successfully balances visual grandeur with emotional narrative. Its major strengths lie in:
- Cinematic brilliance: Stunning visuals, Ladakh landscapes, and authentic battle depiction
- Emotional core: Moments of camaraderie, sacrifice, and personal sacrifice feel genuine
- Respectful tribute: Honours real heroes with a sense of reverence and fidelity
But it is not without its flaws: pacing issues, occasional over-engineering in emotional scenes, and debate over historical representation may reduce its impact for some viewers.
Verdict: For those who appreciate war films rooted in real history — especially stories of underdog courage — 120 Bahadur seems poised to be a must-watch. It may not be flawless, but its heart is undeniably in the right place.
FAQs: What Viewers Are Wondering About 120 Bahadur
- When is 120 Bahadur releasing?
The film is set to release on 21 November 2025. The Times of India+1 - Is 120 Bahadur based on a true story?
Yes — it is inspired by the 1962 Battle of Rezang La, focusing on 120 soldiers of the 13 Kumaon Regiment. The Economic Times+1 - Who is playing Major Shaitan Singh Bhati?
Farhan Akhtar plays the role of Major Shaitan Singh Bhati, a real-life war hero. FilmiBeat - How are the visuals in the film?
Critics praise the cinematography as “exceptional” and “breathtaking,” especially during battle scenes. OTTPlay+1 - Is there controversy around the movie’s historical accuracy?
Yes — there is a PIL accusing the film of misrepresenting the role of certain regimental communities. The Times of India - Did the CBFC demand any cuts?
No — the film was cleared without cuts and given a U/A certification. The Times of India - What do viewers say about the film on social media?
Reactions are mixed: some praise its realism and tribute, while others debate casting or historical representation. Reddit - How’s the music and score?
The background score has been highlighted as impactful, and the songs add emotional texture. FilmiBeat+1 - How did Farhan Akhtar’s father, Javed Akhtar, react?
He was reportedly moved to tears after watching the film, which speaks to its emotional resonance. The Times of India - Is it just an action movie or a tribute film?
More a tribute — it balances action with human stories, sacrifice, and legacy, rather than focusing solely on war spectacle.
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