120 Bahadur is one of the most powerful and emotional war dramas of recent years, which pays a memorable tribute to Major Shaitan Singh Bhati and 120 brave soldiers of Charlie Company, 13 Kumaon Regiment, who fought the famous Battle of Rezang La on November 18, 1962. The film does not just tell the story of a war, but honors the sacrifice that became a symbol of India’s courage, strength and steadfast spirit.
Strong start of 120 Bahadur
The film opens with a tear-jerking voiceover from Amitabh Bachchan narrating the political climate of the 1960s, the repeated belief in “Hindi-Chini Bhai-Bhai” and the terrible deception that led to the India-China war. His voice sets the tone for the story that follows, a spectacular tale of one of the bravest final stands in Indian military history.
The first half begins with the personal memories of radio operator Ramchander Yadav, played by Sparsh Walia, which frames the story. His memories take the audience to the snow-clad region of Ladakh, where 120 soldiers of Charlie Company were deployed. Initially, the film seems to focus more on Farhan Akhtar’s role as Major Shaitan Singh, making it seem as if the film completely revolves around his leadership. But as the story progresses, it completely changes the perspective, proving that this is not just the story of one man, it is the composite story of 120 fearless warriors who fought against over 3,000 Chinese soldiers.
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The first half of 120 Bahadur is slow and steady
The film begins with the memories of a radio operator, played by Sparsh Walia. From his perspective and words, we dive into the difficult and painful battle of Rezang La that immortalized 120 soldiers. In the first half, director Razneesh ‘Raazi’ Ghai tries to introduce us to the personal lives of the soldiers, their families and their emotional world. Amitabh Bachchan’s voice-over in the beginning already creates the atmosphere. This is a commendable effort, because wars are not won by guns and bullets alone; Rather, emotions, relationships and motivation are also fought with the soldiers.
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However, the screenplay falls flat and scenes that could have been more emotional remain superficial. The song filmed on Shaitan Singh Bhati (Farhan Akhtar) and his wife (Raashi Khanna) is a great example of this; This spoils the flow of the story and instead of increasing the emotional impact, it seems artificial. Although there is only one song in the first half of the film, it would have been better if it was not there, because Shaitan Singh Bhati’s character is not able to make the desired connection. The supporting cast is so effective that the interest in their storyline increases with every dialogue, yet their background remains a blur next to the words ‘Ahir’, ‘Rewari’ and ‘Rajasthani’.
The first half seems to be searching for itself, as if it can’t decide whether it’s a film about human emotions or about war, as the story focuses neither entirely on the emotions nor the nuances of war. Apart from the screenplay, the writing in this nearly two-hour film is commendable: it is not just about Shaitan Singh Bhati, but about his 120 brave men. There is no doubt that other actors were given equal screen time to Farhan Akhtar, and perhaps that is why they completely overshadowed Farhan, even though his looks were equally strong. The despair, sadness, passion and fighting spirit on their faces were perfect.
In the second half of 120 Bahadur, the film comes into its true form.
In the second half, as the story moves to the battlefield, the film finds its real pace and excitement. The head-to-head confrontation between the armies of India and China gives the film a sharp edge which was missing in the first half. The fight scenes are powerful, full of emotion and at times so raw that the audience can feel their intensity. The courage of the soldiers, their sacrifice and their determination to fight till their last breath is heart-wrenching. Here, the film fulfills its responsibility, making you feel the gravity and pain of the fight. A particularly beautiful moment is when the Chinese soldiers also show respect for Shaitan Singh. This scene brings back the lost emotional balance of the film and captivates the audience. The song “Yaad Aate Hain” in the second half also does not distract you, but connects you with the story and leaves an emotional impact. There are many scenes in the second half of the film which are emotional as well as take you back to that period.
Cinematography of 120 Bahadur is its USP
The real strength of 120 Bahadur lies in its visual treatment. Tetsuo Nagata’s cinematography shows the harsh cold and desolate mountains of Ladakh in such a way that the viewer gets immersed in those conditions. From the fast-paced battle scenes to every close-up, every expression is heart-wrenching. Cinematography is an important part of the film which forces you to forget all the shortcomings, connects you with the story and makes you feel as if you are there, experiencing the story. The beauty of Ladakh has been shown in the film in such a way that the audience is immediately drawn into it. The decision to shoot on real locations proves to be the right decision on the part of the director as the reality of the war is shown not only through facial expressions but also through the land on which the battles were fought.
Performance in 120 Bahadur
Farhan Akhtar
Farhan Akhtar has given a brilliant and very respectable performance as Major Shaitan Singh Bhati. He brings a quiet strength to this role, playing the role of a leader who inspires not with tall words but with courage, candor and sacrifice. His emotional control and determination make his performance one of the best of his career.
tactile
As radio operator Ramchander Yadav, Sparsh Walia is superb. His character is the emotional anchor of the film, guiding the audience through memories, thoughts and trauma. There is honesty, innocence and depth in his performance, which makes him one of the most special actors of the film.
Rashi Khanna
Raashi Khanna strikes an emotional balance between warmth and vulnerability. His scenes show the silent sacrifices made by soldiers’ families without much drama. She supports the story beautifully.
Vivaan Bhathena
Vivaan Bhathena brings heart and enthusiasm to his role. His companionship with fellow soldiers seems natural and believable, which adds life to the emotional scenes.
ejaz khan
Ejaz Khan plays the commanding officer of the battalion, a character who oversees and guides the company with maturity and authority. He doesn’t fight on the battlefield, but his leadership, calm demeanor and strategic presence make him an essential part of the story. The supporting actors who play the soldiers of Charlie Company shine with their honesty and commitment. Each soldier is given an identity and purpose, so that the audience can connect with them emotionally before the final battle begins.
How was the direction and writing?
Directed by Rajneesh ‘Raazi’ Ghai, the son of an Indian Army officer, the film has greatly benefited from his understanding of military life and the reality of the battlefield. His decision to shoot in real locations instead of green screens is very realistic. Rajeev ji. Menon’s writing is strong and respectable. It shows the bravery of the soldiers without exaggerating, and balances history with emotion.
Overall Verdict
120 Bahadur is not just a film, it is a heartfelt salute to the courage of Major Shaitan Singh Bhati and 120 soldiers of Charlie Company. It combines powerful performances, stunning visuals, emotional music and a grounded story to create a deeply impactful experience. It is a must watch for every Indian, every history buff and every viewer who loves stories of real bravery.
Movie Name:120 brave
Critics Rating:4/5
Release Date:November 21, 2025
Director:Rajneesh Ghai
Genre:war-drama