Aamir Khan’s much-anticipated return to the silver screen with Sitaare Zameen Par has generated mixed reactions – both critically and commercially.
Touted as a spiritual successor to his 2007 landmark film Taare Zameen Par, the latest release takes a heartfelt look at inclusivity in sports, focusing on a basketball coach tasked with training a team of neurodivergent adults.
Directed by RS Prasanna and adapted from the 2018 Spanish film Campeones, Sitaare Zameen Par, released on June 20, revolves around Gulshan Arora (played by Aamir), a temperamental assistant coach sentenced to community service after a public meltdown.
The assignment – coaching specially-abled adults – forces him into a transformative journey that is equal parts emotional and comedic.
While the first half of the film meanders through predictable conflicts and a slow build-up, the second half redeems itself with warmth, humour and some stellar performances, reported the Hindustan Times.
Aamir’s chemistry with co-star Genelia Deshmukh, who plays his wife Sunita, is tender and restrained.
Supporting actors like Dolly Ahluwalia and Brijendra Kala leave a mark in limited screen time, while the film’s ensemble cast of differently-abled actors deliver deeply moving performances that avoid cliché or condescension.
The film’s soundtrack by Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy complements the narrative, though it lacks the lasting impact of Taare Zameen Par.
Still, Sitaare Zameen Par manages to land its emotional beats effectively, especially in scenes highlighting the everyday triumphs and challenges of its protagonists.
Despite its noble intentions and heartfelt storytelling, the film hasn’t mirrored the box office success of Aamir’s earlier blockbusters.
After an impressive opening week, collections have slowed considerably. On day five, the film earned Rs8.5 crore, bringing its total to Rs75.15 crore ($11.2 million).
With a production budget of Rs90 crore, Sitaare Zameen Par is inching towards profitability, but the coming weeks – especially with new releases like Nikita Roy and Maa – pose stiff competition.
Still, Aamir Khan’s comeback is noteworthy. With Sitaare Zameen Par, he once again uses cinema as a platform for social commentary, echoing his legacy of films that blend entertainment with purpose.
