The Bollywood industry rarely explores the human-animal relationship, but Azaad, directed by Abhishek Kapoor, attempts to revive the genre with a period drama centered on a man and his horse. Starring Amaan Devgan and Rasha Thadani, the film focuses on the bond between a young rebel and his horse, Azad, set against the backdrop of pre-independence India. But does Azaad deliver a compelling story, or does it falter in execution?
Key Highlights:
Azaad Movie Release Details

📅 Release Date: Now in theaters
📍 Director: Abhishek Kapoor
🎭 Starring: Amaan Devgan, Rasha Thadani, Ajay Devgn, Diana Penty
📺 Where to Watch: Theatrical release
Azaad Movie Review: A Story of Rebellion and Friendship

Set in pre-independence India, Azaad follows the journey of Govind (Amaan Devgan), a rookie rebel fighting against British oppression. Along the way, he develops a strong bond with his horse, Azaad, who plays an integral role in his struggles and victories.
🌟 Key Plot Points:
🔹 Govind falls for Janaki (Rasha Thadani), a strong-willed young woman who embraces British hobbies but speaks against injustice.
🔹 Ajay Devgn’s Vikram Singh joins the rebel movement, adding intensity and gravitas to the plot.
🔹 Azaad, the horse, becomes a symbol of freedom, loyalty, and resistance against British rule.
However, despite its emotional core, the first half of the film lacks coherence, with multiple subplots—rebellions, romance, and oppression—unfolding simultaneously without smooth transitions.
What Works: It’s Strengths

✅ Ajay Devgn’s Commanding Performance
🔹 As rebel leader Vikram Singh, Ajay Devgn brings his signature intensity, blending charisma and power effortlessly.
🔹 His limited screen time still makes a significant impact, adding depth to the rebellion plotline.
✅ Azaad, The Real Star of the Film
🔹 The majestic black horse steals the show with expressive emotions, power, and presence.
🔹 The film employs anthropomorphism, making Azaad a fully developed character rather than just an animal companion.
✅ Visually Stunning Cinematography
🔹 The pre-independence setting is beautifully captured, with grand landscapes, period costumes, and stunning battle sequences.
🔹 Abhishek Kapoor’s directorial finesse is evident in certain aesthetic moments, especially in scenes showcasing Azaad’s grandeur.
What Falls Short: It’s Weaknesses

❌ Weak Character Development for Amaan Devgan & Rasha Thadani
🔹 Amaan Devgan, despite sincere efforts, appears overexcited and inexperienced, making his acting feel exaggerated rather than natural.
🔹 Rasha Thadani, despite being positioned as a strong female lead, gets minimal screen time, limiting her impact.
❌ Disjointed Narrative & Weak Screenplay
🔹 The first half feels scattered, lacking a clear, engaging structure.
🔹 The film tries to juggle romance, rebellion, and animal bonding, but fails to make any aspect truly compelling.
❌ Lacks Emotional Depth
🔹 The film relies heavily on visual spectacle, but fails to build strong emotional connections.
🔹 Unlike movies like Haathi Mere Saathi or Teri Meherbaniyan, Azaad doesn’t leave a lasting emotional impact.
Final Verdict: It Is Visually Appealing but Emotionally Hollow

⭐ Rating: 2.5/5 ⭐
🔹 Should You Watch? If you love period dramas and animal bonding stories, the cinematic experience may be worth it.
🔹 Is Azaad a must-watch? Unfortunately, the film fails to deliver a compelling, emotionally rich narrative, making it forgettable despite its grandeur.
Where to Watch
📺 Theatrical Release
💾 Azaad Movie Download: Will be available on OTT platforms later in 2025
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