Tiger 3 (2023) Review!!

Synopsis – Following the events of Tiger Zinda Hai, War, and Pathaan, Avinash Singh Rathore (alias “Tiger”) is framed as a traitor, where he goes on a life-threatening crusade to clear his and his family’s name.

My Take – Though he is still considered a GOAT when it comes to box office pull, the past few years has seen Salman Khan‘s status quo suffer due to his continuing choice of starring in poorly made features, which along with failing to connect with the audience in general also disappointed in reaching their expected numbers.

However, with him and Katrina Kaif reprising their iconic roles of Tiger and Zoya in the second sequel of Ek Tha Tiger (2012), following Tiger Zinda Hai (2017), going by its opening day figures and general reception, it seemed like this fifth installment of the YRF Spy Universe is the comeback the superstar actually needed and his fans deserved.

Taking over the reins from directors Kabir Khan and Ali Abbas Zafar, Maneesh Sharma (Band Baaja Baraat, Fan), in his first big-scale action flick, brings in all the elements of a true mass entertainer in a manner that makes it an intriguing watch. Following the felt fitted template of the spy universe which includes over-the-top action, decent performances, twists and a gripping screenplay, there is nothing understated here, and that perhaps can be called its most selling point.

Yes, in comparison to other installments, it is at times unnecessarily self-serious and draggy when it need not have been, yet, again in comparison, it is darker than its predecessors and distinguishes itself by eschewing songs and light-hearted moments, instead offering a more relentless focus on the action and scale.

Also, don’t miss the post-credit scene which intriguingly sets up the next installment of the series and sees the return of the Major Kabir Dhaliwal (Hrithik Roshan).

Taking place sometime after the events of Tiger Zinda Hai (2017), War (2019) and Pathaan (2023), the story once again follows Avinash “Tiger” Singh Rathore (Salman Khan), a R&AW agent, who seems to be leading a happy married life with Zoya (Katrina Kaif), a former ISI agent, and their son Junior in Austria. But all that changes when on a mission Tiger is informed by a dying colleague about Zoya’s return to her ISI roots.

A duplicity caused by the return of Aatish Rehman (Emraan Hashmi), a former ISI agent and mentor to Zoya, who has put plans in place to jeopardize Nasreen Irani, the current Prime Minister of Pakistan, and her intentions to engage in peace talks with India. And with their ailing son in his custody, both Tiger and Zoya are forced to do his bidding, even if it leads to jeopardizing India and Pakistan’s relations and getting branded as traitors by their respective countries.

Indeed, the film’s scale is huge and director Maneesh Sharma treats the story line with aplomb, adding scintillating action, incredible background score and some smart geopolitics to keep things entertaining. The screenplay from writer SridharRaghavan (Pathaan) wastes no time in getting into the thick of action and we are treated to one action-set piece after another interspersed with snippets of a story.

Motives are established, back stories are provided and the characters zip across different exotic locations in the blink of an eye. Comparatively, even Kaif’s Zoya gets more to do here and a backstory, allowing us to connect with her.

While the story and broad plot of the film is quite intricate and complex with a new twist and turn waiting to unfold every few minutes, what remains problematic is the inconsistent pace. Especially the first half which is quite underwhelming filled mostly with hijinks that leaves you awestruck.

Thankfully, things gain momentum in the second half, which switches gears towards the action element mainly. Containing undoubtedly some of the best action scenes in the franchise as well as in the Bollywood landscape, the hand combats choreography, the stunt work, the practical effects, the VFX, and the variety of settings are all top-notch. There are enough whistle-worthy moments that you don’t complain.

But most surprisingly, here is a film that actually advocates for peace between India and Pakistan, paints a villain that would be acceptable to audiences across both sides of the border and has an Indian hero saving democracy in its neighboring country. Sure, one can accuse it of having oodles of savior complex but at least it tries to maintain a balance that has been sorely lacking in recent patriotic themed films. And that itself is pretty brave in these times.

Performances wise, Salman Khan seems comfortable in his return as Tiger, perhaps maybe too comfortable, yet he looks the part and is neat in the action sequences. He may not have the twinkle he showcased in his Pathaan (2023) cameo, but retains the swag he introduced in 2012. In a pleasant surprise, Katrina Kaif fares better, both in the dramatic and the action sequences. Her scenes, whether action-packed or not, were executed with visible effort and commitment.

Emraan Hashmi‘s performance is both menacing and understated, adding to the ensemble cast’s overall appeal. The demeanor and body language he puts on for this ruthless and heartless portrayal makes his act near-perfect. In supporting roles, Revathi, Kumud Mishra, Riddhi Dogra, Anant Vidhaat Sharma, Chandrachoor Rai, Vishal Jethwa, Gavie Chahal, Danish Bhat, and Simran are good.

However, the much-touted cameo by Shah Rukh Khan is indeed the best part of the film. He comes, conquers and leaves you wanting more. The 15-20 minute sequence once again showcases the camaraderie between the two stars, and increases the excitement around the upcoming Tiger vs Pathaan (2025). On the whole, ‘Tiger 3’ is an entertaining sequel uplifted by its relentless action spectacle.