Operation Valentine Movie Review: A Missed Opportunity in Patriotic Storytelling

Star Cast: Varun Tej, Manushi Chhillar, Paresh Pahuja, Ruhani Sharma, Mir Sarwar, Vaibhav Tatwawadi & others
Director: Shakti Pratap Singh Hada
Language: Telugu & Hindi
Available On: Theatrical release
Runtime: 2 hours 12 minutes
Rating: ⭐⭐(2/5)



Introduction:

Directed by Shakti Pratap Singh Hada, "Operation Valentine" aims to depict India's response to the Pulwama attack and the subsequent Balakot Airstrike. The film follows the story of Ahaana Gill, a command center officer, and Arjun Dev (Rudra), a fighter pilot, as they lead a retaliatory mission against terrorists. Despite its promising premise, the film struggles to deliver a compelling narrative.

Plot Analysis:

"Operation Valentine" unfolds against the backdrop of a terrorist attack in Srinagar, leading to the loss of 40 Indian security forces. As India plans a retaliatory mission, Ahaana and Rudra find themselves at the forefront of the operation. However, the film's narrative suffers from a lack of focus, with subplots overshadowing the central storyline. The romantic subplot between Ahaana and Rudra feels forced and detracts from the urgency of the mission.

What Works:

While the film's execution may fall short, Varun Tej delivers a charismatic performance as Rudra, bringing a sense of energy to the character. The action sequences, though few, manage to inject some excitement into the narrative. Additionally, the film's attempt to shed light on India's response to terrorism is commendable, highlighting the bravery and sacrifice of the armed forces.

What Doesn’t Work:

"Operation Valentine" struggles with pacing issues and fails to maintain momentum throughout its runtime. The excessive emphasis on the romantic subplot feels out of place and disrupts the flow of the story. The film's portrayal of patriotism veers into jingoism, lacking the nuance required to tackle such a sensitive subject matter. Furthermore, the technical aspects, including cinematography and visual effects, leave much to be desired, failing to enhance the viewing experience.

Verdict:

Despite its ambitious premise, "Operation Valentine" fails to deliver a compelling narrative. With a disjointed plot, lackluster performances, and uninspired direction, the film falls short of expectations. While it attempts to tackle an important subject, its execution leaves much to be desired. Overall, "Operation Valentine" is a disappointing missed opportunity that fails to leave a lasting impression.