Sunny Deol's highly anticipated action film, Jaat, released in theaters worldwide on April 10, 2025, amidst much excitement from fans and moviegoers. Directed by Gopichand Malineni, the film showcases Deol in a powerful avatar, reminiscent of his iconic roles from the past. Alongside him, Randeep Hooda plays the menacing antagonist, Rana Tunga, while the cast also features Regina Cassandra, Vineet Kumar Singh, and Saiyami Kher.
Jaat has opened to overwhelmingly positive reviews, with fans praising its action-packed sequences and emotional depth. Early reactions on social media have labeled the film as a "paisa vasool" (value for money) experience, and many viewers have drawn comparisons to Salman Khan's recent release, Sikandar, claiming that Jaat surpasses it in entertainment value.
As per the latest reports, the film grossed ₹2.37 crore in advance bookings on its opening day, selling over 1.13 lakh tickets across approximately 14,200 shows nationwide. Including block bookings, the total earnings rose to ₹6.27 crore. The film has particularly excelled in regions like Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar, benefiting from the Mahavir Jayanti holiday.
In the film, Deol portrays Bhaskar Singh, a fearless man who confronts the ruthless criminal Varadaraja Ranatunga. The storyline unfolds in the remote coastal village of Ramayapatnam in Andhra Pradesh, where Bhaskar stands as a beacon of justice against the odds. Critics have noted that while the film follows a typical Telugu mass savior template, it still captivates with its engaging action sequences and nostalgic charm.
Film trade analyst Taran Adarsh has given Jaat a thumbs up, calling it a "power-packed" entertainer filled with whistle-worthy dialogues and thrilling action. He noted that the film celebrates the kind of cinematic heroism that has been missing in modern Hindi cinema. Another reviewer, Sumit Kadel, echoed this sentiment, rating the movie 3.5 stars and highlighting its potential at the box office, especially in mass belts.
Fans have been vocal about their excitement, with one user stating, "This is what Sikandar should have been! Jaat is a very fun and entertaining watch!" Others have praised Deol's return to form, saying, "Sunny Deol of the 90s is back with this film. No one has presented him like this in the past 15 years!" The film's performances, especially Deol's, have been celebrated, with many suggesting that his commanding presence has turned theaters into stadiums.
The film's premiere was a star-studded affair, with veteran actor Dharmendra, Deol's father, making a memorable appearance. His infectious energy and dance moves captivated the audience, adding an emotional layer to the celebrations surrounding his son's return to the big screen.
In a promotional interview, Deol shared his thoughts on acting, dismissing the importance of method acting and emphasizing that true acting ability is innate. He reflected on the diverse roles his father, Dharmendra, played in the 60s and 70s, highlighting that acting should come naturally without excessive overthinking.
As Jaat continues to gain traction, there’s a palpable buzz surrounding its box office performance and audience reception. The film's blend of action, emotion, and cultural pride resonates with viewers, making it a fitting addition to Deol's legacy as a cinematic hero.
While the film has its share of critiques, particularly regarding its formulaic plot, it undeniably appeals to fans of traditional masala cinema. The nostalgic references to Deol's past films, coupled with the high-octane action sequences, create an engaging experience that many have longed for in contemporary Bollywood.
As the days progress, it will be interesting to see how Jaat performs in the coming weeks and whether it can replicate the success of Deol's previous blockbuster, Gadar 2. With its strong opening and positive word-of-mouth, Jaat is poised to make a significant impact at the box office.
In summary, Jaat serves as a reminder of Sunny Deol's enduring appeal and the excitement that surrounds his return to action cinema. The film not only showcases his iconic persona but also brings to light the values of justice and resilience that resonate deeply with audiences.
