3/5
Neither Dabangg2 nor Dabangg3 is a true worthy successor of the iconic Dabangg but I would rate Dabangg3 higher than Dabangg2 because this time they have a better story to narrate.
Well, the movie starts with Salman Khan playing Chulbul Pandey in a goofy avatar, fighting with some baddies and it looks like a parody! Then the title track follows where Chulbul Pandey breathes out fire and smash break the ground. You feel like this is going to be the worst of the Dabangg series!
But the movie soon changes its course with Chulbul Pandey coming across the antagonist Balli Singh and the audiences are taken to the flashback- a beautiful love story between Chulbul Pandey and Khushi (Saiee Manjrekar). This flashback sequence comprises of Chulbul-Khushi love story and how Dhakadchand Pandey becomes Chulbul Pandey. It's the best part of the movie, which certainly uplifts the movie to being not just watchable but enjoyable. It does well establish the relationship between Khushi and Rajjo (Chulbul's wife) but also contradicts several statements and characterization of Dabangg first part. This is one flaw of the movie. There is also one comic-action sequence in the flashback which should have been omitted.
Post interval the film has its highs and lows but sails through. It's the usual good vs bad with Chulbul Pandey playing the game with more legal approch this time.
The major let down of this movie are the songs. The songs don't make a big impact and in fact, they are wrongly placed. As the story starts getting engaging, a song follows that act as speed breaker. However, the exception is Awara sung by Salman Ali and Muskan. This song is beautiful and will pass the test of time.
Talking about the leads, playing Chulbul Pandey is a cake walk for Salman Khan. He gets into the skin of the character but the corrupt Chulbul Pandey of 1st part had something more offer that audiences enjoy more. Kiccha Sudeep as Balli Singh is menacing. And character of Rajjo suits Sonakshi well. Arbaaz was fine. But amongst the supporting cast, it's Saiee Manjrekar who leaves an impact.
Prabhu Deva direction is above average.
Overall, Dabangg3, with it highs and lows, is an entertaining watch.