Following the government’s efforts to extend airplane travel accessibility, Mumbai cinema is soaring to new heights for the common audience. Yodha joins the ranks of aerial action films like Runway 34, Tejas, Fighter, and Operation Valentine from the South. However, despite impressive stunts, Yodha encounters turbulence due to a lackluster script.
The storyline revolves around a hero in uniform who defies commands to thwart rogue elements hindering the India-Pakistan peace process. While the film attempts to introduce gender parity with strong female characters, it feels formulaic, with more creative freedom evident in depicting pre-2014 political leadership.
Directed by newcomers Pushkar Ojha and Sagar Ambre, Yodha shines brightest in its sky combat scenes. Sidharth Malhotra delivers a compelling performance with his commanding presence and agility. However, the film’s script, despite sincere efforts from Rashii Khanna, fails to soar, reading more like an airplane handbook than a captivating narrative.
