The film entertains in parts and informs in others, but fails to recreate the impact like its predecessor, writes ABHI SINGHAL
Sitaare Zameen Par, starring Aamir Khan and Genelia Deshmukh, has hit the theatres but delivers a mixed experience. Carrying the greatness of ‘Taare Zameen Par’ it is difficult to not talk about the first part of the film. Taare was praised its emotional depth and engaging pace, Sitaare Zameen Par doesn’t quite live up to its legacy. Right from the beginning, the film lays out the entire storyline, leaving little for the audience to hold on to. The build-up is weak, and the first half feels stretched and predictable. There’s no real suspense or emotional hook early on, which may leave viewers disengaged. The pace is slow, and the narrative lacks the grip that made the original film so impactful.
But things begin to improve in the second half, where the story gains some momentum. The scenes involving the basketball ‘Sitaare Team’, a group of intellectually disabled characters, add a soft emotional layer to the film. These characters bring in innocence, warmth, and gentle humour. The ten first-time actors who portray these roles shine with their natural performances and sweet comic timing. Their presence uplifts the film and provides its most heartfelt moments.
Genelia Deshmukh plays a positive and supportive role, but her character doesn’t hold much weight in the storyline and feels more like a filler than a necessity. Aamir Khan, returning to the big screen after three years, plays a lead basketball coach who is sometimes annoying but still well-intentioned. His performance is decent and pulls the film through the lagging storytelling.
In terms of originality, the film offers little. Directed by R. S. Prasanna, Sitaare Zameen Par is an official remake of the 2018 Spanish film ‘Campeones’ (‘Champions’), which was later adapted in Hollywood with Woody Harrelson in the lead. The familiarity of the plot and treatment makes it predictable for audiences aware of the earlier versions.
Despite its flaws, the film attempts to raise awareness about intellectual disabilities and the importance of understanding and inclusion. Like its predecessor, it shows that neuro-atypical individuals often have valuable lessons to offer about life and human connection. While ‘Sitaare Zameen Par’ may not match the emotional impact or finesse of ‘Taare Zameen Par’, it still manages to touch hearts in parts, mainly due to its cast of debutant actors and its core message of empathy.
Ratings: 3/5
Watch Card (Show Information)
Screen Title: Sitaare Zameen Par (Film)
Where to Watch: Theatrical Release
Running Time: 158 minutes
Genre: Comedy, Drama