Bollywood is Finally Getting Sports Right: From Chandu Champion to Soorma and Mary Kom

In "Chandu Champion," Kartik Aaryan convincingly portrays Murlikant Petkar, looking every bit the professional medium-weight boxer. This realism comes from Aaryan's year-long training with professional boxers. Each punch in the film feels authentic, reflecting Bollywood's new commitment to realistic sports biopics.

Sports films have traditionally explored the comeback theme, but recent movies like "Chandu Champion" are pushing new boundaries with better camera work and deeper research. They focus on the full arc of the protagonist, from highs to lows, making the experience richer for the audience. This includes realistic portrayals of athletes' physicality and the intense training required to achieve peak fitness.

"Chandu Champion" stands out by focusing on Petkar's rehab journey, showing his mental turmoil and the arduous task of recovery. Similarly, "Soorma" (2018) and "Mary Kom" (2014) highlight the challenges and support systems needed for athletes to make comebacks. These films emphasize the importance of detailed research and realistic depiction of sports and recovery.

The cinematography, choreography, and editing in these films have significantly improved. Movies like "Chak De! India" set a high standard, and "Chandu Champion" continues this trend with sharp, realistic training and match sequences. This focus on authenticity elevates the genre, making sports biopics more engaging and impactful.