“Ghoomer” Review: R Balki’s latest film is a sports drama centered around a cricketer who faces the loss of her right arm and embarks on a journey to reclaim her life.
On the festive occasion of Diwali, Saiyami Kher visits her coach Abhishek Bachchan to exchange warm wishes. This encounter leads to a compelling moment where she, wearing a saree, is challenged by Abhishek to bowl in torchlight, showcasing the theme of pushing personal boundaries. Such captivating instances are plentiful in “Ghoomer.” The film takes viewers through a range of goosebumps-inducing scenes, from backyard practice pitches to international stadiums in England. The movie immerses audiences in a world where passion meets rationality. A well-crafted narrative underscores the importance of self-belief and perseverance, effectively inspiring and empowering the audience.
Director R Balki presents a straightforward approach to storytelling, diving headfirst into the tale of Anina (Saiyami), an aspiring cricketer seeking a spot on the Indian National Women’s Cricket team. Her dreams take a tragic turn as she loses her right arm just before a crucial tournament. In her darkest moments, Paddy sir (Abhishek), a disillusioned ex-cricketer turned alcoholic, enters her life. Anina seeks redemption and a second chance, leading to her transformation from a batter to a left-arm bowler, a transition the film aptly captures.
Balki’s narrative is underpinned by empathy, co-written with Rahul Sengupta and Rishi Virmani. The characters’ struggles resonate deeply, whether it’s Anina’s challenges or Paddy’s despair. Remarkably, the film avoids presenting Anina as a pitiable character while still evoking sympathy for her situation. Paddy’s emotional monologue and his yearning to experience the feeling of winning evoke contemplation and emotional connection.
Balki interlaces emotions with humor, notably in the commentary box banter and the amusing interactions between characters during matches. “Ghoomer” maintains a crisp pace and delves into themes such as gender equality, discrimination in sports, education, and superstitions. Vishal Sinha’s cinematography is noteworthy, visually capturing the essence of cricket scenes.
The casting of “Ghoomer” contributes significantly to its impact. Abhishek Bachchan delivers a compelling performance, effectively portraying Paddy’s ruthlessness and emotional evolution. Saiyami’s portrayal of Anina is commendable, her conviction and dedication to her role evident. The chemistry between Abhishek and Saiyami enhances their scenes together. Shabana Azmi, Angad Bedi, and Ivanka Das provide valuable contributions to the ensemble cast, each bringing depth to their characters.
“Ghoomer” draws parallels to SRK’s Kabir Khan from “Chak De! India” in its depiction of mentorship and unorthodox techniques. However, it raises a question common in sports films: why does a failed athlete often need to inspire another player? Despite this, Balki weaves a convincing background for Abhishek’s character.
Although the film mostly excels, there’s a slightly jarring dialogue that contradicts its intentions. Nevertheless, “Ghoomer” enchants audiences with its inspiring narrative, engaging screenplay, and remarkable performances, offering a satisfying blend of entertainment and meaningful messaging. It’s a heartwarming family movie that deserves a watch in theaters, showcasing Balki’s adeptness at leveraging Amitabh Bachchan’s screen presence.
