Review: 'Sky Force' is all about soaring heroism and heartfelt sacrifices with Akshay & Veer flying high

Strap yourself in, because Sky Force takes you on a wild, high-flying ride where patriotism isn’t just a theme—it’s a full-on adrenaline rush! Directed by Abhishek Anil Kapur and Sandeep Kewlani, this movie is a tribute to the legendary bravery and sacrifice of India’s Air Force pilots during the 1965 Indo-Pakistani War. From jaw-dropping aerial dogfights to deeply emotional moments that’ll have you holding back tears, Sky Force is a thrilling rollercoaster of courage, sacrifice, and brotherhood.

At its core, the film features Wing Commander K.O. Ahuja (played by the one and only Akshay Kumar) and T. Vijaya (portrayed by debutant Veer Pahariya). The two heroes’ paths are as intertwined as their jet streams in the sky, and their story isn’t just about war—it’s about what it means to fight for your country, your comrades, and your own soul. Akshay Kumar’s Ahuja is a man of principle, integrity, and raw emotion—a perfect fit for Kumar's commanding on-screen presence. Think steely resolve with a side of heart-wrenching vulnerability. When Ahuja investigates the mysterious disappearance of a fellow pilot, the film switches gears, diving into the emotional toll of war, the loss of comrades, and the unshakable bonds of brotherhood.

But hold on, Veer Pahariya doesn’t just take a backseat to Kumar's star power—he makes his debut with a performance that is nothing short of mesmerizing. As T. Vijaya, the rebellious pilot who goes missing after defying orders, Pahariya delivers a quietly intense portrayal of duty, defiance, and sacrifice. He embodies the spirit of a true warrior—one willing to put everything on the line for his country. And those last few moments? Let’s just say, bring tissues—Pahariya’s emotional arc is both thrilling and deeply moving, offering a tribute to real-life hero Squadron Leader Ajjamada Boppayya Devayya MVC.

While the men take center stage, Nimrat Kaur and Sara Ali Khan bring a dose of emotional depth that perfectly complements the high-octane action. Kaur as Ahuja’s wife offers quiet strength, the calm amidst the storm. Meanwhile, Ali Khan’s portrayal of Vijaya’s pregnant wife tugs at your heartstrings, reminding us of the sacrifices made not just on the battlefield, but at home as well.

Now, we get to the part that will make you feel like you’ve just completed an aerobatic training course. The aerial combat in Sky Force is jaw-droppingly amazing. It’s not just about planes zooming around like CGI toys; it’s all about precision, urgency, and high-stakes action. The direction is sharp—Kapur and Kewlani nail the pacing with relentless dogfights that feel as real as if you’re right there in the cockpit. Every missile launch, every dive, every barrel roll is meticulously choreographed and filmed with such intensity that you’ll find yourself holding your breath with each twist and turn. The VFX team deserves a standing ovation for making these aerial battles look so ridiculously real, blending CGI and practical stunts to create scenes that’ll have you feeling the G-force.

And let’s talk about the background score—this isn’t just a soundtrack; it’s a full-on emotional assault. From the heavy beats of the jets revving up to the soaring orchestral pieces that accompany the quieter, heart-wrenching moments, the music elevates the entire film. The score doesn’t just play along with the action; it amplifies it, giving each combat sequence that extra layer of emotional punch.

What makes Sky Force stand out from other war epics is how it balances the emotional stakes with the high-octane action. It’s not just about blowing stuff up—each dogfight is tied to the personal journey of the pilots. You’re not just rooting for the planes to win; you’re rooting for the men and women inside them.

At its heart, Sky Force is a story of sacrifice, duty, and brotherhood. It reminds us that every victory in war comes with a personal cost—one that’s often felt long after the bombs have dropped. And though the film’s title might suggest an endless barrage of explosions and stunts, it’s the human side of the story that really sticks with you.

This Republic Day, Sky Force isn’t just a war film. It’s a cinematic love letter to the heroes who fought for justice, to the ones who risked it all—and to the bonds that held them together through the darkest of times. Produced by Dinesh Vijan, Amar Kaushik, and Jyoti Deshpande, this film is a testament to their vision and the collective brilliance of Maddock Films and Jio Studios.

The Verdict

So buckle up, because Sky Force isn’t just a film—it’s a journey you won’t forget. If you haven’t seen it yet, what are you waiting for? The sky’s the limit, and this movie will take you to heights you never knew existed.

**** (4/5) stars