Those who tuned in to watch the OTT premiere show of the film, had a lot to say about the film’s casting, the performances and the execution of the story. While Sara Ali Khan’s performance received mixed reviews, Emraan Hashmi‘s portrayal of Ram Manohar Lohia emerged as the standout aspect of the film, captivating audiences with his compelling portrayal.
Taking to social media, fans of the actor said, “This is not Sara Ali khan movie This is the One and only @emraanhashmi As Ram Manohar Lohia Movie.”
Another sang praise of Hashmi’s performance saying, “Once Again, @emraanhashmi Proves His Versatility With a Powerhouse Performance As Ram Manohar Lohiya.!!”
Others were more critical in their X reviews as they tweeted, “#emraanhashmi is the only saving grace in #AeWatanMereWatan “
It is undeniable that Emraan’s powerful performance deserved widespread acclaim, some audience members expressed reservations about certain aspects of Sara’s act. Opinions varied on the overall impact of the film and the young actress’ casting to play the freedom fighter. “I am a Sara Ali Khan fan, but after watching #MurderMubarak and #AeWatanMereWatan I feel she should start picking the roles that match her personality,” one tweeted.
Another echoed the sentiments saying, “Casting Sara Ali Khan as Usha Mehta in this period film underscores the necessity for filmmakers to prioritize talent over popularity.”
Still another said, “I had high hopes for Sara Ali Khan in this film, but her performance fell short. The role demanded a more powerful and emotionally resonant portrayal, but she came across as distant, cold, and lacked the needed depth of expression.”
However, there were others who lauded the actress for taking the risk to make such movies over mainstream Bollywood outings. “#SaraAliKhan probably gave her best performance in a non-commercial film,” one user commented.
Another felt that social media was being too critical of Sara and penned an encouraging note that read, “Dear #SaraAliKhan You did a good job considering your 4th or 5th film. Almost Every actor took time to became a performer. People on social media are too harsh these days. Everyone is critic here, bashing badly or praising badly is a habbit now.”
Commenting on their overall experience watching the film, others took to Twitter to say, “Story of #Usha is definitely worth hearing but not sure through #AeWatanMereWatan. @emraanhashmi as #Rammohanlohia did a great cameo.. But the over dramatic screenplay, misplaced #Bgm, Loose #script makes the experience less charming, hopes on this #dharmatic experience was high.”
One declared it as a ‘must watch’, while another said, “#AeWatanMereWatan makes for a good OTT watch, especially as you get to hear an untold tale.”
‘Ae Watan Mere Watan’ is Sara Ali Khan’s first period film. The actress, who has been a student of history, plays freedom fighter Usha Mehta, who is known for using an underground radio during the 1942 Quit India Movement against the British Raj. Directed by Kannan Iyer, the movie is written by Iyer, along with Darab Farooqui.
The film also features Sachin Khedekar, Abhay Verma, Sparsh Shrivastav, Alexx O’Neil, and Anand Tiwari in pivotal roles. Emraan Hashmi makes a special guest appearance.
