User Reviews

"Who decides what should people listen to?"

A really well made biopic about an artist who was a victim of cancel culture in the worst way. Imtiaz Ali tells the story of Amar Singh Chamkila, a musician who became the highest selling artist of Punjab by writing and performing vulgar songs. He was not the only one writing such songs, nor were his songs the most distasteful in the industry. But he was the one who gained the most popularity. And so, had to suffer the consequences.

And in telling this person's story, Ali doesn't take his side by justifying his lyrics. He doesn't make a hero out of Chamkila. He just presents him as he was. An artist who created music according to the audience's taste. An ordinary person who did not have the luxury to think about rights and wrongs. He just produced what he saw and heard around him.

Ali's choice of using animation, documentary styled storytelling, and real life footages makes the film work quite well. Diljit Dosanjh and Parineeti Chopra do commendable works in portraying their characters. The decision of making them sing the songs is praiseworthy.

Add to that the original music of AR Rahman, and lyrics penned by Irshad Kamil that capture the essence of the events and the Punjabi culture extremely well. The editing is some of the best you'll find in an Indian film. On a technical standpoint, this is one of the better biopics to come out of Bollywood.

"Not everyone can afford to think about right and wrong. Some people just need to survive."

This movies keeps me hoping for the revival of Indian cinema. I honestly thought it was impossible, even for big budget artists, to make good movies anymore.

Diljeet was effortless in his role. The story was well written, the cinematography outstanding, and Rahman nailed the tone of the movie. Parineeti didn't have a huge role but the acting was still adequate. Not a dig at her acting, it's just that Chamkila as a character outshone everything else. There's not much else to say, but the fact that this movie should have made it to the big screen. On the other hand though, it wouldn't have made money and probably made sure that other such movies never make it to the big screen. At least Netflix probably paid a decent sum, making sure that movies that won't make big box office bucks will still have a platform.

I'd just like to let Imtiaz and other artists who are feeling the pressure to know that they should not give in to the trends. Keep accepting unique scripts like these, making movies which challenge you, and do not succumb to the pressures of box office targets. There will be people like me who'll gladly watch good stuff when it deserves a watch.

"CHAMKILA" encapsulates the soul of Punjab with a purity that resonates through every frame. Imtiaz Ali's directorial finesse delves deep into the essence of Chamkila's music, transcending linguistic barriers by seamlessly translating his poignant lyrics into Hindi, offering viewers an intimate understanding of his artistry.

Bold and unapologetic, the film unearths both the virtuous and flawed facets of Amar Singh Chamkila's persona, portraying him as an artist consumed by his craft and beholden to his audience. His tumultuous journey, from the fervor of his initial marriage to the shadows of his past, unfolds with raw authenticity, painting a vivid portrait of a man ensnared by his own legacy.

Diljit Dosanjh's portrayal of Chamkila is nothing short of mesmerizing, effortlessly embodying the complexities of the enigmatic artist, while Parineeti Chopra delivers a compelling performance in her supporting role.

What sets "CHAMKILA" apart is its meticulous attention to detail, drawing inspiration from real-life events and seamlessly integrating archival footage and evocative animations. Each performance is a poignant tribute to the trials and triumphs of Chamkila's life, resonating with authenticity and emotional depth.

In essence, "CHAMKILA" is more than just a cinematic experience; it's a captivating journey into the heart and soul of an artist, offering audiences a glimpse into the exhilarating highs and harrowing lows of a life lived in pursuit of musical transcendence.

The magic of Imtiaz Ali is back. Diljit's portrayal is nothing short of mesmerizing. No one else could have done it. The anticipation since the movie's announcement has been building, and thankfully, it more than lives up to expectations. What a beautiful cinematic journey, with stellar performances from the entire cast. Parineeti shines brilliantly alongside Diljit. The music, as expected from the genius of AR Rahman, is exceptional, with Mohit Chauhan's vocals once again casting a spell on us. Undoubtedly, the finest film of 2024, Diljit emerges as the next big thing in Bollywood. His talent knows no bounds, and he is undoubtedly here to slay. As dedicated Diljit fans, we are very proud. He deserves every accolade, especially all the Best Actor awards of the year.

When I watch trailer I got stunned by the look of diljeet Dosanjh and now I am watching and I got tears. Diljeet sir give a great performance and Netflix also do great work by showing real or reel in side by side frame. And also great way to tell legend story by his friends. I just watch the movie and couldn't control myself to review this masterpiece. Director shows amar singh chamkila with a great vision . I really want that Netflix makes more movies like this. Chamkila is not culture man but he follows the culture. His song are inspired by people thinking he is not bad or good he was just great singer 👍.

"Amar Singh Chamkila" is a captivating Punjabi biographical film that chronicles the life of the legendary Punjabi singer, Amar Singh Chamkila. The movie takes us on a nostalgic journey through his rise to fame, his musical genius, and his impact on Punjabi music.

The film beautifully captures the essence of Chamkila's music and the cultural significance it held for Punjabi audiences. The performances by the actors, especially the one portraying Amar Singh Chamkila, are commendable. They bring depth and authenticity to the character, making it feel like you're watching the real Chamkila on screen.

The storytelling is engaging, and it successfully portrays the struggles and triumphs of Chamkila's life. You'll find yourself emotionally invested in his journey, rooting for him as he overcomes obstacles and leaves a lasting legacy.

The music in the film is a true highlight. It features some of Chamkila's iconic songs, which will transport you back in time and make you tap your feet to the beats. The songs are beautifully integrated into the narrative, adding another layer of depth to the storytelling.

Overall, "Amar Singh Chamkila" is a must-watch for all Punjabi music lovers and fans of biographical films. It pays a heartfelt tribute to a musical legend and leaves you with a sense of admiration for Amar Singh Chamkila's talent and contribution to Punjabi music.

I hope this review helps you out! Let me know if there's anything else I can assist you with. 😊🎬

Although some people who are not Punjabi might find some scenes boring specially the songs overall it is a brilliantly shot film. The story shows rise of a poor man to the heights unimaginable and jealousy and envy of established people who could not tolerate him. It also shows the artistic and human side of chamkila which was not shown in earlier Punjabi films. But kiddos to imtiaz Ali he captured the era , the culture balancing Punjabi for Hindi audience as well crafting a totally artistic movie which I am sure most of the cinema lovers will be fully enjoying . This film will not disappoint you.

Watched Hindi movie Amar Singh Chamkila on Netflix starring Diljith Dosanjh, Parineeti chopra directed by Imtiaz Ali.

This is a story of a real punjabi singer of same name who was shot dead when he was in his peak of music career. He was the highest record selling artist in punjab during 70's and 80's A ordinary poor singer who slowly becomes famous due to his vulgar songs . Vulgar or double meaning lyrics used in songs create a big fame in punjab and he just becomes famous not only in India but other counties like the gulf, UK and Canada.

All his original songs were used . The makers cleverly showed the real pictures, videos and old footages of the singer and his wife on many scenes.

During the songs they show the hindi meanings also of the lyrics so that people can understand. I really liked that part because songs were pure punjabi and not everyone understands that even some hindi speaking audiences.

What a stellar performance by Diljith he just lived the character throughout. Superbly acted and very well supported by Pareeniti chopra who plays his second wife.

Imtiaz Ali is back as a director after 3-4 years and has crafted this biography superbly.

One of the best hindi movies I watched in recent times.

The movie will take you back in the 70s and 80s the way the art directors have created the set to show the old punjab is fantastic.

Good background score by A. R. Rahman and songs are also nice.

Do watch it if you want to enjoy a good hindi movie, with songs, emotions and a nice biography of a great singer.

Highly recommend 👌 👍 👏 #netflixmovies #netflixrecommendations #diljitdosanjh #ParineetiChopra #ImtiazAli #amarsinghchamkilaonnetflix #amarsinghchamkila #moviereview #movienetflix #movies.

Frankly speaking the movie was okay. The life of Chamkila can't be explained in 2:30 hour movie. This movie failed to revolve around everything, what exactly he is and what his personality was. He has that personality that nobody can't ignore. But a down to earth man. He helped many other singers to be what they are today and the list includes big names. But the performance by Diljit is the only good thing in the movie. Other than that Imtiaz Ali drama in songs that we get to see in other movies, you will see that too in this. Parineeti is a disaster as Amarjot, though Imtiaz Ali tried badly to potrait her as Amarjot by looks but her performance not even close to her. One time watch definitely!

Great acting and special the punjab culture brings to the screen was most important thing and directer done his job very well. Music is great but not ar Rehman special. Set design production at next level. Dijit prov it again he is real actor. Songs are nearly 80s music. Worth to see movie and acting. Preneti chopra done her role perfectly. It real really imatiz Ali gem and he prove it. Dinette acting impressive and getting day by day. I was expecting great lyrics from Irshad kamil but I think he just just write the songs not put his efforts like other movie. The worth watch movie to see in ci.

While the film maintains a steady pace, it may feel excessively slow at times due to its long songs and captivating montages depicting the life of the controversial yet beloved Punjabi singer, Amar Singh Chamkila, who was tragically assassinated at the age of 27.

Diljit Dosanjh delivers a standout performance throughout the entire film. His portrayal of Chamkila is not only convincing but also deeply immersive, showcasing his dedication to the role. Dosanjh's portrayal is the driving force behind the audience's willingness to overlook any distractions present in the film.

Parineeti Chopra also shines in her role, capturing the essence of Amarjyot's character with precision. The chemistry between Dosanjh and Chopra on screen adds to the film's appeal.

It's noteworthy that Imtiaz Ali took on the task of writing all the songs himself, despite Irshad Kamil's expertise in Punjabi language and culture. While this decision was surprising, it's possible that using colloquial language instead of heavy Punjabi slang could have made the music more accessible to a wider audience.

Imtiaz Ali's strong direction is evident throughout the film, particularly in his accurate portrayal of 1980s Punjab, which adds to the film's authenticity and enhances the viewer's understanding of the setting.

While the film's story may be considered weak, the combination of stellar performances, impeccable direction, and A. R. Rahman's evocative background score elevates its overall appeal. Although 'Chamkila' may not be Imtiaz Ali's best work, his ability to capture the life of an artist with such depth solidifies his position as one of the most remarkable storytellers in Indian cinema."

#amarsinghchamkila #chamkila #ImtiazAli #diljitdosanjh.

This is a combination of various events in life of Chamkila and some of the events are pushed to have no evidence at all and zero entrainment.

The childhood events are so frustrating to have distraction from what audiance wants to see In real life Chamkila converted to Sikhism after started singing and in movie he born Sikh and hair trimmed Lots to serve in this 2.3 hrs events previews without any story line As being a low cost documentory it has very less characters and sets What is use of DSP hearing Chamkila story and roaming around with dead bodies I think director wanted to show many things in Chamkila life but having no story of line to catch. This telestorry comes out as events checker with few facts and few details

U can watch as fact Fictiot about a singer life like NG documentory but this is far to be called a Movie.

So finally Imtiaz sir back with a bang . What a great cinematography and way of story telling is amazing . Daljit shine and adopted the character perfectly. Parineeti is just average with her role . Great story telling with great music . Daljit has successfully portrait the character of great Amar Singh Chamkila. He also sang in the chamkila style and so become very realistic .

Only flaw is story is predictable and just goes in one dimension though it could be the same in most biopics . However Imtiaz sir successfully created the same atmosphere of Ancient Punjab which is the main highlight of movie So if you love punjabi music , do watch .

Best movie of the year so far.

Exact Imtiaz Ali kind of a movie.

Star cast 10/10.

Acting 10/10.

Story 10/10.

Music 10/10.

Best in all aspects.

Would love to see more such.

Movie is better thn Jab we met, Tamasha, Highway, Rock star etc.

This sought of story should have been highlighted a long back. But neither the less. Perfect movie to watch this weekend. And a must watch movie. Best in class by Parineeti and Daljit Dosanjh along with the music of A R Rehman.

This sought of story should have been highlighted a long back. But neither the less. Perfect movie to watch this weekend. And a must watch movie. Best in class by Parineeti and Daljit Dosanjh along with the music of A R Rehman.

Amazing Storylines Great Acting Especially by Diljit Dosanjh and pareeneti Chopra.

Loved their acting.

Beat movie I have seen between 2018 and till date .

Music is also Great.

Would Recommend watching To all My friends.

Diljeet did a great job in his role. The story was good, the filming was impressive, and Rahman got the movie's vibe just right. Parineeti's part wasn't big, but she acted well. It's not that she did poorly; it's just that Chamkila's character stole the show. This movie should've been in theaters. But then again, it might not have made much money and could've stopped similar movies from getting a chance. At least Netflix likely paid well for it, giving such movies a place to shine.

This movie is going to be remembered for a long time. We watch hollywood music documentaries and this movie has made a similar impact if not more. The acting, the songs, the direction by Imtiaz Ali, everything is a perfection. The acting by Diljeet is so good that you forget for a minute that you are watching a movie. The credit goes to the cast selection here. When Diljit sings we are able to resonate with the character. Pareeneti also did fair with the screen time she got. Although her character could have been highlighted more. But this was Diljit's show. The way Imtiaz has framed all the story is so smooth that even with story jumping from past and present, we stay hinged to the movie. An A class movie this is.

Amar Singh Chamkila (2024) : Movie Review -

Amar Singh Chamkila Review: Finally, there is a film where I can say Imtiaz Ali is back. Of course, he can't match his own magic of Jab We Met if we have to consider healthy commercial cinema, and that is likely to remain his best work for years, it seems. With Amar Singh Chamkila, he gets that OTT movie, which is actually made for an OTT experience. Once in a blue moon, Netflix (MAMI always does) arranged for a screening on the big screen, which seems to have helped me in my viewing experience. Usually, the same is hurt by mobile/laptop viewing. Bollywood isn't really good with musical narrations. If we look back, Jagga Jasoos did attempt a Disney-like musical adventure, but the script disappointed. Gully Boy came as a nice surprise from urban-cinema lover Zoya cause it was based on a rapper's life. Then we see something astonishing like "Hamilton" and realise Gully Boy was hardly 5% of it. Then we have movies like Bohemian Rhapsody (2018) and Elvis (2022), which are too late for Hollywood's standards, who have been making musicals and musical biopics since the 1930s, right from Ziegfield to Yankee Doodle Dandy and so much else. Chamkila's story finally reminds us that yes, we also have such stories, and even if we are almost a century late, we still have something new for our audiences. Ali's passion for bringing the life of a controversial but sensational singer to life is visible from the very first scene until the last one. There are hardly any compromises with the true events, and with some Tarantino-like graphics, Ali creates a healthy musical biopic for Bollywood that we have been missing since Gully Boy.

The film opens with the ending scene, with Amar Singh Chamkila (Diljit Dosanjh) and his wife, Amarjot (Parineeti Chopra), getting shot brutally. Their bodies have no takers, and they are kept to rot right there. While their families are due to come and take the bodies for final rites, we meet several friends of Amar Singh who begin unfolding his life from his struggling days. Young Amar Singh has a knack for music but has no guidance. He gets one chance to perform in Akhaada and is presented as "Amar Singh CHAMKILA" by mistake in front of locals. He sings his own song, his first song, and it becomes a HIT amongst the listeners present there. So HIT that they boo the next singer, who was actually more popular than Chamkila a few moments ago. Chamkila becomes a sensation in no time and is now in need of a female partner for singing. There comes Amarjot, who can match his high tone and also get along fine with vulgar lyrics. She falls in love with Amar, and they get married, only to find out a shocking fact from Amar's past. Chamkila becomes the highest-paid artist as well as the highest-selling artist in Punjab's history, but when everything seems to be going fine, he is attacked and threatened by religious communities, social parties, and even goons over the use of extremely vulgar words in his songs. How Chamkila continues to find success against all odds while also having to fear for his life is what forms the crux of the story.

Imtiaz Ali and Sajid Ali's writing piece may not be that great, but it's pretty honest to the factual events. It's the screenplay that makes it better, crispier, and more entertaining. Usually, we have subtitles at the bottom of the screen, but Chamkila has them all over the screen except the bottom. Whatever Chamkila and Amarjor or other female singers are singing in Punjabi, we get Hindi translations of it through colourful subtitles. Believe me, it's so much fun reading them. The songs are foot-tapping already, so you have no issues with how many of them are there, and then there are some firecrackers of words. This combination alone is worth your watch; it doesn't matter if you have no interest in Chamkila's life. What comes as a surprise is comedy. It seems like ages since we have had a nice comedy from Imtiaz, and Chamkila makes it happen when nobody was expecting it to be one. The jokes are situational. You have to be in that moment to enjoy them. I am afraid your TV screen or mobile screen won't do justice to it because it felt like a community viewing to me (in the premiere, when people were laughing, hooting, and clapping non-stop).

I have been underestimating Diljit Dosanjh as an actor ever since his debut, but no more of that stuff now. He proved that he can act; it's just the director and the character that have to align well with his potential. He has lived this character. He is a singer and songwriter himself, so it helped him more than it could have helped other actors. There are hardly any high-dramatic scenes here, so he doesn't get too many chances to get into that hardcore drama or emotional zone, but whatever he has done, it's more than enough. He has brought Chamkila on screen with utter honesty, and that's all that matters here. Parineeti Chopra doing that "nittt" with her lips and left cheek can make any man go flat for a moment. Her character also suffers from the same problem of not getting so many dramatic moments, so it looks like a very thin and simple character, even after so many ups and downs. The last frame of the movie has a split-screen comparison of these two reel characters and real footage of Amar and Amarjot. Only a few people dare show that unless they are damn sure about it. Watch out for that to learn how good Diljit and Parineeti are at portraying the real characters. Apinderdeep Singh, Nisha Bano, Rahul Mittra, Vipin Katyal, Anjum Batra, Udaybir Sandhu, Anhad Singh, and Sahiba Bali's supporting cast unit put their honest efforts into making it a wholesome experience.

Chamkila is all about music, and you'll know why when you are finished watching it. I can't say that all of you will be addicted to it, but yes, half or more than half people will look out for Amar Singh Chamkila's jukebox on Netflix's YouTube channel after watching the film. "Ishq Mitaye" is my favourite of them all, "Naram Kaleja" is Rahman's tribute to Chamkila's trademark songs, "Tu Kya Jaane" is a typical romantic number where the heroine falls in love with the hero, "Bol Mohabbat" is a Kailash Kher phenomenon, and besides these, you have many of Chamkila's original songs, be they vulgar chartbusters or devotional hits. The cinematography seemed pretty normal, and the editing was strictly okay. Overall, the film doesn't bore you, except for a few minutes in the middle with dated melodrama.

Imtiaz Ali's modern musical has everything you can expect from a masaledar biopic. Credit to Chamkila's life, which has everything to make a perfect "Bollywood movie." He rose from the ashes, became number one, had bad habits, had to struggle for his existence, was threatened, and then shot dead-see, a perfect script for a musical biopic on a controversial but popular artist. The film somehow tries to whitewash his image, but it doesn't fare well there. Chamkila has no shame admitting that he was married, and Amarjot actually sees no problem in that except for one small heated argument. He openly blames the public for making him a villain, but eventually becomes their victim. It was the public who forced him to do those things, and yet he was blamed for spoiling society. I have seen this trend in our so-called educated society where people blame a cinema, an artist, or a song for spoiling children and youth. Okay, by that logic, we should have had hundreds of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and other legendary personalities in our society because we have made films on them. I didn't see anything happening like that, so why blame someone for a bad influence? Influences can be good too, but nobody gives a damn about that. Ali's film asks you this question, and you have no answer but to look down and walk away. That's why it is important to watch this film, not only because it's a fun and entertaining watch and you need to know Chamkila and his life, but because society destroys honest artists. The same way, Hollywood shows their hit artists having sexual and extramarital affairs, sometimes homosexual, drugs, psychological frustrations, and depression, and then gets away with rave reviews. What's wrong with Chamkila, then? Have a look, not because Chamkila was a legend or anything like that, but because he brought out what was inside you, even if it was bad. "Karte to sab hai, but chup chupke."

RATING - 6/10*

Brilliant movie, brilliant acting by diljeet and parineeti. Every single actor has done a fabulous job in the movie. From the first manager of chamkila to his friend who is telling his story.. beautiful movie making and story telling. 100% justice to the roles. Well done to the entire team.

After a long time I have cherished such good movie making. I wondered why this movie was not released in theaters, but ott was a great move for best reach.

It's a must watch for everyone. Parineeti was a perfect fit for the role and has done absolute justice to it including her mannerism and natural flow. Diljeet has done such natural acting ... Kudos kudos.

Sexy geet gata tha...; gund ghool jata tha...; Jis wagha se chamka wo, us wajah se tapka woh...; Chamkila, Sexy-la, tharki-la, Woh Gunda Banda...(Well, not so much)

Those lines from the lyrics of 'baaja' (song in the movie) is actually whatever happens in the movie.. where Chamkila, an aspiring singer sings and makes dirty songs, which according to him is demanded by his audience, and he wont be heard if he sings clean songs...a 2 line plot made into an almost 3 hours movie, which has a slow pacing, but works in favour of the movie as it gives more time to Diljit Paji to sing dirty songs in between. Though the movie doesn't offer anything special, but still a good watch, with a message, you might already know, but music is amazing!!

Fantastic movie and amazing direction.

Parineeti did a fabulous job playing her role Ans another level respect for the GEM DILJIT SOSANJH for creating magic on screen... loved his acting, adaptation. What a movie! Just WOW!!!

Movie will give you a comprehensive outlook on his life story and what and who all could be possible people behind his murder.

It cant be missed, Imitiaz Ali brought his Rockstanr and Tamasha magic back in this masterpiece.

Chamkila is a Must watch and if you dont understand Punjabi, this has been very weel taken care off .

He was rebellious and he stood what he believed in was right.

Imtiaz Ali strikes gold again with "Amar Singh Chamkila," a masterpiece in every sense. Diljit Dosanjh's portrayal of Chamkila is flawless; he breathes life into the character, leaving a lasting impact. While the pacing may seem slow at times, it mirrors the rhythm of Chamkila's life, offering an authentic portrayal. Parineeti Chopra shines in her role, adding depth to the narrative. The music by A R Rahman is exceptional, immersing viewers in Chamkila's world. You will feel overwhelmed when the credits roll. The last song was the perfect choice. Don't miss the chance to experience this cinematic marvel.

What a bore !!! In this age of edge of the seat OTT content, how these biggies even attempt to make such duds...there's literally nothing other than the Genius Rahman's music, that's it. Thankfully you can't give below 1 rating on IMDb and that 1 is for only Rehman. Very weak screenplay and you get all the time to check your mobile or change temperature settings of your room. Diljit is shaping up very well as an actor but that's it, nothing more nothing less, one needs content also to put these actors in...wafer thin storyline basis which the Sony Liv Chamak(on same story of Chamkila) also used little fiction to save the day. The problem is these movie makers are out of ideas basis which they pick up whatever unheard characters or stories come their way...a flash in the pan artist in one State which 80% of the state also is not aware of doesn't deserve to be a movie subject when we're yet to portray Nehru & Jinnah ! No marks for guessing why Imtiaz did not go to theatres to sell this dud!!

One of the amazing movie of this year 2024 🔥 Sheer brilliance from Imtiaz Ali 👏🏼 👏🏼👏🏼.

Perfect sync with reel & real characters time to time with best dialogues.

More movies should come based on true stories.

The soundtrack by AR Rahman Sir is a penultimate, infusing Punjabi folk with modern beats to create an unforgettable listening experience.

No one can justify Punjabi essence in modern style better than our beloved ARR Sir.

Diljit Dosanjh justified the role of Amar Singh Chamkila and Parineeti Chopra perfectly captures the spirit of Punjabi kudi.

1970's & 1980's are shown in a modern way to keep the audience engaged and that is the key reason for this movie success.

Diljit Dosanjh's acting in the movie is excellent, and his resemblance to the real-life legend Chamkila is striking. The film's portrayal of his life feels authentic and close to reality, showing how a poor kid rose to become a music industry ruler with nationwide popularity for 8 years. All the characters are well-portrayed, with special mention to Parineeti Chopra's performance, which is outstanding. Her portrayal adds depth and emotion to the narrative, making it more compelling. The movie is not just a biopic but also an inspiring tale of resilience and success, making it a must-watch for music enthusiasts and those who appreciate a good story.