Shah Rukh Khan Nabbing His First National Award in Three Decades, Yet Jawan Selection Seems Unconventional
The 71st National Film Awards 2023 have been announced, and one of the most talked-about winners is Shah Rukh Khan for his performance in the film "Jawan". This marks Khan's first-ever National Award for Best Actor after a 33-year career.
Despite criticisms labeling "Jawan" as a masala vigilante blockbuster without the serious, nuanced depth typical of some award-winning performances, the award acknowledges Shah Rukh Khan’s impactful acting contribution in the film rather than solely the film’s genre or style.
The jury’s appreciation for Khan’s portrayal in "Jawan" is evident, as his performance stood out within the film’s commercial and mainstream format to merit the prestigious accolade. This recognition ends a long-standing trend where Khan’s critically appreciated performances were repeatedly overlooked, reaffirming his stature as an iconic star finally honored at the national level.
"Jawan", a three-hour-long film that carries entirely on Shah Rukh's shoulders, is all style, all swagger, with a pinch of heart, and is fun. The film features metro hijacks, dandy prison uniforms, and a cigar-chomping SRK in a George Clooney makeover. The clean-up act led by Shah Rukh Khan and Nayanthara makes it impossible to look away, even when vigilante films can be exhausting.
However, the award for "Jawan" and Shah Rukh Khan has sparked debate and questions. Some argue that the 71st National Film Awards 2023 may have marked a shift away from the awards' original focus on risk, diversity, and quiet excellence. The Kerala Story, a polarizing film about women being forced to convert and recruited by IS, won top honours at the same event, adding fuel to this discussion.
The writer, in their initial review of "Jawan", noted that it is a glossy, over-the-top action adventure that thrives on Shah Rukh Khan's charisma. The choreographer-director, a close friend of Shah Rukh Khan, expressed a transactional approach to awards, stating that she would not attend if not guaranteed an award. This has led to concerns that the 71st National Film Awards 2023 may have overlooked merit in favor of Bollywood's glitz.
Despite these concerns, there is no denying Shah Rukh Khan's ability to carry a film. His unmatched charm and unshakable legacy are evident in his performance in "Jawan". The award is a testament to his ability to deliver a compelling performance even in a high-octane action entertainer, thus broadening the scope of performances recognized beyond only traditionally "serious" or "artistic" roles.
Vikrant Massey shares the Best Actor trophy with Shah Rukh Khan for their performances in "12th Fail" and "Jawan" respectively. Prithviraj's gritty "Aadujeevitham", an on-the-nose survival drama, was snubbed at the 71st National Film Awards 2023.
The writer expresses their love for Shah Rukh Khan and acknowledges his unmatched charm and unshakable legacy. However, they also question whether "Jawan" is National Award-worthy, sparking a debate about the evolution of the National Film Awards and their focus on mainstream Bollywood films over regional cinema.
[1] The Indian Express [2] Hindustan Times [3] NDTV [4] The Quint [5] Firstpost
- The 71st National Film Awards 2023 recognized the impactful acting performance of Shah Rukh Khan in the commercial film "Jawan," marking his first National Award win after a 33-year career.
- Shah Rukh Khan's performance in "Jawan," a glossy, over-the-top action adventure, demonstrates his ability to deliver a compelling performance even in high-octane entertainers, broadening the scope of performances recognized beyond traditional roles.
- Despite Shah Rukh Khan and "Jawan" receiving the National Award for Best Actor, concerns have been raised regarding the potential shift of the awards' focus from risk, diversity, and quiet excellence to mainstream Bollywood films over regional cinema.
- The debate about the evolution of the National Film Awards arises as the awards criteria is called into question, with successes like "Jawan" and Shah Rukh Khan's win contrasting against critically acclaimed films such as Prithviraj's "Aadujeevitham" being overlooked.
