‘Chak De’ is a fictional Indian field hockey film. Kabir Khan (Shah Rukh Khan), the captain of the Indian men’s hockey team, misses the game-winning goal in the World Cup Finals, and the media labels him a traitor to his country. Seven years later, India’s international women’s hockey team is searching for a new coach to rebuild their squad. Khan’s name comes up, and he volunteers to take over the team to redeem his name and restore his reputation. The Hockey Association grants him the opportunity. He instills determination in the girls, inspiring them to play for something bigger than themselves. He teaches them that winning requires inner strength, sacrifice, and unity. His guidance, with their hard work, drives the team to new heights.

All things said, I felt the overall film was above average. The acting is decent, especially by Shah Rukh Khan, and many of the players who are first-time actors. I’m a fan of Shah Rukh Khan, but too many of his films feel over-the-top. He was more restrained in ‘Chak De’, which I respect. I believe no single actor should be bigger than the film, yet too often Bollywood makes a folly of that sentiment. I liked the soundtrack, which has a couple of iconic songs that are still sung today in shows like Indian Idol. While the story is predictable each step of the way, you never feel bored.

I watch a lot of sports, but sports films usually disappoint me. Most sports films are cliched and predictable, with around 90% of them—whether from Hollywood, Bollywood, or elsewhere—going the same way. Before you hit play, you can often guess the plot just by knowing the sport. The typical story will go like this: an experienced coach with the weight of the world will bring together a team of under-talented (or untested) misfits. They will each have character flaws or family issues or society mocking them for trying the impossible. The coach will make them bond together over a few months of fierce training, and they will unite to celebrate each other and the coach. A crushing defeat will lead the team to hit rock bottom, but then, the coach will deliver an inspiring, passionate speech. Overnight, the team will magically improve, defeat their foes, and replay the juggernaut team in the final that once destroyed them. The underdog team will, of course, win the final. If you are a sports fan, it rarely happens like that. ‘Chak De’ is no different. I think it’s challenging for a sports film to do differently because in the end, winning is the ambition. It’s tough to sell a film about a fictional team that doesn’t win. It becomes a double-edged sword, trying to balance reality with entertainment.

Would I recommend this? No, probably not. Like most sports films, this won’t stay with you for long. Some sports films can inspire you, or move you to tears, but this was not quite that either. I think the most interesting and touching aspect was the athletes were girls. Few girls pursue sports as a career or dream, so it’s inspiring from that perspective.