Jawan Movie Review: Jawan is an action-packed film starring Shah Rukh Khan in a role that is a departure from his typical romantic characters. In this film directed by Atlee, Shah Rukh Khan plays the role of a jailer who moonlights as a vigilante and also assumes the character of Captain Vikram Rathod, a patriot. The story appears to be filled with twists and turns, with references to popular culture, including nods to shows like Money Heist and Squid Game, as well as movies like The Dark Knight Rises and The Lion King.

The film seems to strike a balance between action and emotion, with Shah Rukh Khan bringing his signature charm to his tough avatar. The movie explores themes of fatherhood and female empowerment while also delving into political and social issues. Shah Rukh Khan's character confronts his nemesis on issues of religion and democracy, making for impactful dialogue.

Jawan also features Deepika Padukone in an extended cameo, and the clash between Shah Rukh Khan and Vijay Sethupathi's characters is quite engaging. Jawan has a story with purpose. The women get their moment in the sun and aren’t treated secondary to the hero, no matter how many SRKs join the party. Deepika Padukone looks beautiful and is solid in an extended cameo. Clash of words, ethics and wigs between SRK and Vijay Sethupathi is fun to watch. Exuding strange humour and rage, Sethupathi makes for a formidable villain. While the brief romantic track between Nayanthara and SRK doesn’t quite work, the girl squad comprising Nayanthara, Priyamani, Sanya Malhotra, Sanjeeta Bhattacharya, Girija Oak and Lehar Khan make their presence felt.

Promoted as an Anirudh (Ravichander) musical, the film’s background score and songs complement its style and nature. Zinda Banda and Chaleya are the best in the lot, but the latter has the most abrupt placement. While there is nothing that distracts you from the plot that has a dime a dozen twists and turns, at 2 hours 49 mins, the film needed a tighter edit.The music and background score in totality, complement the film's style and nature, adding to the overall experience.

Overall, Jawan is a successful departure for Shah Rukh Khan into the action genre, offering a blend of action, emotion, and social commentary while also showcasing his star power.