I had such high hopes for Eklavya The Royal Guard, with that incredible star cast and Vidhu Vinod Chopra directing after his brilliant Parinda and 1942 A Love Story. But honestly, it left me underwhelmed and frustrated.
The potential was huge – a moody royal drama in stunning Rajasthan forts – but the storytelling feels so sluggish and amateurish, like a first-time director’s experiment rather than a seasoned pro’s work. So many extended, whispering dialogue scenes that drag on without building tension or character, making the short runtime somehow feel endless.
It’s mostly predictable, with little emotional pull, and by the time any twists arrive, you’ve already checked out. The cast tries hard, especially the leads, but they’re let down by poor pacing and direction.
5/10: not recommended; you’d get more drama from a live theatre play.
