Tiger 3 Review: Sluggish!

YRF Spy Universe fifth installment, Tiger 3, directed by Maneesh Sharma, explores the origins of RAW and ISI agents Tiger and Zoya’s relationship before their initial encounter. While the Spy-Universe’s trademark blend of romance and espionage may seem far-fetched and worn out, the director weaves a decent prequel narrative. The movie builds on the established formula set by Ek Tha Tiger and Pathaan, offering a unique perspective on the unconventional collaboration between agents from rival agencies.

First off, throughout the YRF Spy Universe’s films, including Tiger 3, the narrative has consistently grappled with writing challenges. While the stakes became higher, the post-2020 era demanded more nuanced storytelling. From Ek Tha Tiger to this film, the franchise has yet to fully meet the evolving need for smart and resonant narratives which fit the contemporary times.

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Furthermore, more on the negatives, tailored for an intellectually inclined audience familiar with the nuances of covert organizations, Tiger 3 mirrors the intricate storylines of franchises like Mission: Impossible and James Bond. However, the challenge lies in the film’s gradual plot setup, making it taxing for the masses to discern whether the conflict is personal or a national crisis.

This uncertainty dilutes engagement, prompting the need for the film to fervently reclaim the viewer’s attention. Amidst the very predictable twists, nationality clashes, and persistent revenge motifs endure, echoing a sense of repetition and occasional protraction, even across a decade.

Brimming with his trademark swag, Salman Khan embodies Tiger with unparalleled flair. This time, his persona commands an even grander presence. From a stellar entry scene that befits his iconic character to multiple instances that echo the essence of an entry, Khan seamlessly blends heroic moments, dramatic pauses, and memorable dialogues throughout the narrative.

In her portrayal of Zoya, Katrina Kaif effortlessly embraces various facets, excelling in each aspect except for the very inconsistency in her accent. A standout moment occurs during the “infamous” towel combat scene with Michelle Lee, vowing a cinematic hush followed by some palpable chaos among male audiences resembling Hollywood-style segments tailored for Bollywood audiences.

Emraan Hashmi steps into the role of Aatish, a former Pakistani agent, portraying a character that exudes brutality, intelligence, and a certain sense of clarity. Hashmi injects his own touch into his persona, infusing a dark and raw quality. While the performance captures the essence of the character, there’s potential for heightened impact with the addition of more physical prowess and intensity in the portrayal of violence.

Tiger 3 boasts an array of good action set pieces, arguably the most extensive in the Spy Universe. The movie’s cinematography by Anay Goswamy adds to its allure, capturing the intensity of each sequence, while the background score, especially Tiger’s theme music, enhances the cinematic experience. With two songs in its repertoire, “Leke Prabhu Ka Naam” serves as a lively end credit celebration while “Ruaan” explores themes of love and pain, offering a compelling experience best savored in theaters to avoid spoilers.

Tiger 3’s initial sluggishness is offset by a longer yet faster-paced second half, a commendable editing feat by Rameshwar S. Bhagat. While the scale soars, the storytelling hovers at a mid-level, a persistent issue in the Spy-Universe. Hope for an antidote soon for more memorable action films. Amidst Gadar 2’s Tara Singh, Tiger’s anti-Pakistani stance emphasizes communal harmony, notably in a fiery scene with Pakistanis singing India’s national anthem—a noteworthy spoiler.

‘Tiger 3’ Rating – 2.5/5