Superb epic movie.. Go watch and feel the fool blast of emotions that you'll go through..
Chak de india was good, and this is a a level above that too..
It differs from Chak de india in that that it had more of commercial elements and unrealistic plot sequences.
Here, in this movie the story is fully believable, and unlike C-D-I, they haven't exaggerated the plot.
Above all, akshay Kumar is just another plot device who takes the story forward. That way, all the protagonists in the movie are given faceime, instead of making it a one may show, and that what clinches the movie for me.
Akshay 's character is just another next door person who goes through various emotions and turmoil in life and tries to balance it with his passion /duty for the country in the form of hockey..
Also unlike CDI, this doesn't have overly dramatised climax, making it more believable and life like... Afterall, this was indeed inspired from history of Indian hockey..
The fact that the movie is more grounded (rather than overly dramatised - exaggerated), makes it a breath of fresh air in this genre of movies, which are all overhyped (and commercialised)..
Many reviewers find fault at the fact that akshay Kumar doesn't rise above the plot or the other protagonists.. My point is, that's what will make the film a critical hit..its good that everyone is given a nearly equal opportunity to showcase their characters.... Don't believe the other reviewers who have given a negative review. It's worth the watch.
4/5.....