Tejas

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*Tejas*, directed by Sarvesh Mewara, attempts to bring a fresh twist to the action-packed genre of military films by centering on two women protagonists, Tejas Gill (Kangana Ranaut) and Afiya (Anshul Chauhan), as they embark on a daring mission to rescue a fellow cadet and prevent a major terrorist attack. Inspired by films like *Top Gun* and *Delta Force*, it follows a familiar template of military heroism, but with a unique focus on female combat pilots.

Tejas, a fighter pilot, has always dreamed of serving in the Indian Air Force, and her journey begins with a brave rescue operation where she defies orders to save a fellow officer. After being threatened with court-martial for insubordination, Tejas and Afiya are granted permission to rescue a cadet caught spying in Pakistan. Their mission grows more complicated when they discover a plot to bomb the newly inaugurated Ram temple in Ayodhya, which they must thwart with the help of their resourcefulness.

The film’s narrative weaves between past and present, exploring Tejas’ personal life, including her romantic relationship with Ekveer (Varun Mitra), who is killed during the 2008 Mumbai attacks, and her reflections on the meaning of being a soldier. Kangana delivers a passionate monologue on the essence of soldiering, which feels earnest and convincing.

While the film has high ambition, it falters in execution, especially in the area of aerial combat, which is the core of such films. The aerial choreography, especially in scenes involving fighter jets and helicopters, fails to generate the same thrill seen in Hollywood counterparts. The portrayal of Tejas and Afiya outwitting Pakistani forces also feels unrealistic, with scenes that make the opposition look more like amateurs. The lack of real consequences, such as the absence of a diplomatic fallout after aerial dogfights in Pakistan’s airspace, further undermines the film’s credibility. Additionally, the CGI, while functional, doesn't evoke the excitement or intensity expected from a film of this genre.

Kangana Ranaut delivers a committed performance, bringing life to her character with energy and determination. Her portrayal of a fearless, resourceful pilot stands out, though the lack of a coherent screenplay limits the full impact of her performance. Anshul Chauhan provides strong support, and the camaraderie between the two women feels natural and believable. Varun Mitra, though charming in his role, is mostly relegated to a secondary romantic interest.

In conclusion, while *Tejas* is a valiant attempt at showcasing women in combat roles and honoring the bravery of soldiers, its half-baked script and lackluster action sequences hinder its potential. The film’s message of inclusion is important, but it doesn't fully land due to the film's execution. It’s a movie that could have been much more impactful with a tighter narrative and better technical execution.