A case study of India’s most worshipped God
By The Bollywood Onlooker
How to review a documentary film? There are not much technical aspects to look into in detail. And this being a docu-drama, it is commendable how director Erskine makes sure that we don’t get bored as we see the God of cricket take us through his entire journey in about 2 hours.
Sachin – A billion dreams is an extremely detailed, real and factual display of Sachin Tendulkar’s innings of life. Hence, there is not really any flaw to be picked out in this film. For every Sachin fan, and I am sure that includes about 90% of the cricket fans in India, this is a MUST WATCH. It’s a ride full of goosebumps, nostalgia and also, tears. These fans know Sachin’s greatest innings at the tip of their fingers, and this film makes them relive each and every moment, and with a vociferous ‘Sachiiiiin Sachiiiiin’ in the background.
Sachin – A billion dreams is much different than Dhoni’s crowd pleasing biopic or Azhar’s disastrous biopic/horror film. It’s not your typical Bollywood film, and hence, it may be wrong to compare. However, if given a chance to watch either MS Dhoni or Sachin, I would gladly choose the latter anyday. This is solely because Sachin’s docu-drama is so much more informative, and has 10 times the number of goosebumping moments than in MS Dhoni.
Credit also needs to be given to director James Erskine for throwing light on the impact that this one man has had on India. Cricket is not just form of entertainment in this country, as they say, it is a religion. And Sachin Tendulkar, showed to the world at the age of 16 by the BCCI, truly became the God of this religion as he impacted so many lives in more than one way. The numerous political conflicts, terrorist attacks, religious and communal tensions etc. were all almost automatically set aside when Sachin Ramesh Tendulkar came out to bat. And director Erskine makes sure he involves these parts too.
The presence of various other cricketers, and live footages from the dressing room make this film further interesting. Watch out for a special funny clipping of Anil Kumble.
Final word –
A goosebumping, rollercoaster ride, Sachin A Billion Dreams is a must watch for every Sachin and cricket fan out there. Strongly recommended!
Rating – 4/5
